I realise this post will seem like a bitch slap to a lot of people, so I want to clear up beforehand - it isn't. It is more like what you would call "constructive criticism" and the reason I'm writing it, is because I see a lot of problems in this community, which I know can be fixed, if everyone agrees to co-operate. This is directed at everyone, so I think everyone should take action. Also, this post is not supposed to look like a variant of mini-modding (or "backseat modding", as it is referred to in the Rules), so please know that I haven't such intentions.
Problem № 1.) The Rules are repetitive
Why I think this is bad: It causes confusion and adds incoherence to the Rules.
Examples: @The Main Rules:
- Do not double post. If you think of something else to say before anyone else has posted, use the edit button, or prepare to be banned.
@The Main Rules:
– No double posting. (Edit your last post, instead.)
@The Main Rules:
– Don't be an ass/jerk. Be respective of other member's opinions.
@The Main Rules:
– No trolling, bashing, or flaming. Respect all members, their opinions, and their posts.
Suggestion for a solution: I don't know who has access to edit the aforementioned page, but what I think needs to be done is to reformulate it in a more coherent way. You could also try to merge some of the rules. For instance, in the first example, the first quote could easily replace the second.
Problem № 2.) Some of the rules are often broken. (not speaking minor)
Examples: @The Main Rules:
– No spamming (things that resemble "junk" e-mail, threads without a point)
Sub-example [hide]The thread formerly known as Circumcision[/hide]
Suggestion for a solution: If a certain thread has simply run off course, it should be locked immediately, because it lost all its original value, it's no longer a serious discussion about whatever the subject was. However, if the topic created was originally plain spam, it should be deleted on sight, it's not even worth being visible to the members. And some advice to everyone making threads (you've probably heard this already): think before you post!
@The Main Rules:
- Do NOT harass other members, not through posts, not through PMs. We will find out and you will be punished.
I know this is probably by far the hardest rule to enforce and admittedly, I have broken it as well by sometimes being rude to people. The point is, this rule must be more strictly followed and respected by all members. There are a lot of people, who in my opinion, allow themselves too much and such people should be punished!
Suggestion for a solution: As said, this rule should be enforced more, to the point that all members will be afraid to be disrespectful. Moderators should check controversial topics (where there is likely to be a lot of contradictions) more often (e.g. Next Crewmate Discussion (Vol.4)). Advice to the members: use the Report button () more often and if you feel the need to argue, at least do it intelligently! I know I sure learned my lesson!
@The Main Rules:
- Only one account per person, please.
This rule is often neglected by both moderators and users, as I see it, because of the fact that it's mostly uncontrollable and you can't really accuse someone of being a dupe, unless you're completely sure, by having some sort of proof. I don't plan to concretize, but I will, if it proves to be necessary. And because this rule was confusingly written, I am aware that most people who have created a second account have only one active account NOW, but by being permanently banned once, shouldn't that have rung a bell?
Suggestion for a solution: Members should only report if necessary, because people change. However if it's the same, bad, rule-disregarding person from before, report him! Moderators should decide whether the person deserves a second chance or not. If the person just decides to create yet another account, try to block his IP range (although that would be for drastic measures).
Well, that's all the major problems I could think of right now. Another minor problem is that the Naruto is VIII, how about you? thread is in the wrong section of the forums (people don't discuss the actual Naruto series, from what I was able to see, so I think it belongs as a sticky in the General Discussion forum).
Anyway, I hope someone takes my suggestions into consideration! See you around, forumers!