Forum development

Need good resource tool on how to develop

[Scott_F]

Hi - client has inquired about developing a forum. Can anyone recommend a resource on what I should review on requirements (i.e., hosting, server space, URL, database set up, moderators). And how does it work with regard to moderators of the forum? This is a new domain so I'm learning....basic info would be great.

[rogerd]

Lots of questions, Scott_F. First, once you choose a software platform, you should be able to determine server requirements. A new forum won't need much, unless you'll be driving massive traffic to it from an existing site.

There's always discussion here as to which is better - a separate domain, a subdomain, or a folder of the main domain. In general, the last may be best, particularly if you want to share login info. OTOH, a subdomain may make splitting the servers slightly more straightforward if that's ever required.

Moderation probably won't be a big deal right away. As traffic develops, you can try to cultivate volunteers from the community. If the site is very commercial, you can try to draft employees, hire part time mods, or contract with a service firm.