do search engines like forums?

[tony873004]

The simplest way for me to add new content to my website is to simply post to my forum. In a post I can do almost everything I can do by creating a page of html, such as pictures, links, etc. Furthermore, I can make such additions from any computer as it doesn't require FTP software to make a forum post.

But the search engines are quick to pick up on a newly created page of html, but I rarely every come across a page of my web forum on a search engine, even if the post contains lots of good data.

Since ultimately I'd like to drive more traffic to my site so I can get more clicks, I've been reluctant to take the easy route by updating through forum posts.

Any thoughts?

[ashii]

as Forums contain lot of zunk(like stylesheets) and header text etc.. and it is almost same on all pages, serach engines can ignore your posts untill you do some Optimisation.

The esaiest way will be use a archive script with some SEO.

[netchicken1]

I am getting good hits with google now from optimising my forums. My idea was exactly the same as your, the ability to quickly put content on the site.

Its taken a while, and a fair bit of work, but it can work out. send me a mail and I will show you how I did it.