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Changing over to registration
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Posted by webmaster on April 02, 2004 at 13:03:07:
We have implemented a new forum system, and I'll tell you how to get to it below. First, I owe it to you to tell you about some of the differences.
1. The data is essentially the same, however, the format of the board defaults to "flat" which means all the messages in a thread are visible and can be scrolled through. In the event that an interesting thread is posted, this will save everyone time in following the thread.
2. The "old" system repeated what the poster wrote in the followups, whereas this system simply shows you the thread. Hopefully, that will resolve a little confusion and use fewer resources at the same time.
3. Posts. Only registered members can post on the new system. Registration is not something that has been tested extensively, and there could be problems with the process. If you have trouble registering, please email me for assistance.
4. Not all the boards made it over to the new system. You will find one new board, suggesting Pastoral Ministry and Social Justice issues. We are discontinuing the Preaching board, and the Liturgical Catechesis board (unless an outcry emerges). They
were seldom used except by our pals that post porn links.
5. The new system has a capability to have discussion moderators. I would like to request inquiries for any discussion regulars who would be interested in volunteering for a moderator role. It would help some of the boards stay on track. You would be listed as the moderator of a particular forum, and, as a minimum, would remove the pointless or cruel or inane posts that seem to hit from time to time. You would have to check the forum at least once a day.
6. Registration. We will begin by requesting as much information as you can give us as well as email information for registrants. The process assumes you will want to have a "screen name" that is different than your real name, so you need not worry that your personal identity will be revealed. To actually register, you will need to enter a valid email address so that your confirmation link can be sent to you at that address. You can also mess with "avatars" and icons, which can also be handled by this system. However, I have turned off the system's capacity to handle attachments, due to the vulnerability to jerks who could attach viruses or porn to messages. I have also turned off the feature that lets members see one another's profiles (contrary to the message that appears on the registration screen). Once you have registered, been confirmed, and logged in, you can click on the profile word on the top line and make adjustments to your profile, including determining what shows to other members and what does not. Finally, you may already be registered. If you have posted on the "old" forums AND gave an email address, then there is a good chance that you have already been registered by the conversion software. In this case, you cannot register again. Instead, simply attempt to login with your screen name, and, click on "forgot password." This will cause you to be prompted for your email address. If you enter your email address, the system will send you an email with your password, and possibly a confirmation link.
7. This is a new, very large, very powerful, very complex system. I do not pretend to know all about it, so please bear with me on whatever the learning curve is. I have attempted to turn off almost all the bells and whistles so that it matches somewhat the older system.
8. The new board also has "Customer User Group" areas, so folks can get help with some of the more complex projects that we publish.
9. To get there, click on New RPINET Forum Area