I really just want to say "topic," and leave it at that. But that's lame.
What do you think makes board successful? What kind of atmosphere do you think would make people say, "Hey! This looks like fun. I think I'll post here." (Not literally. You know what I mean. What kind of feel do you think makes a board attractive?
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"You dare not look at my explosion? Like some kind of hero?! I'LL KILL YOU!!! ~ Willydahivemind. http://gifninja.com/animatedgifs/120003/phoenixtrio.gif
A group of people that I find interesting to talk to is basically all you need. It's also probably the hardest to get right. Board 8 and Somethingawful are pretty much the only forums I post in for this reason.
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"You dare not look at my explosion? Like some kind of hero?! I'LL KILL YOU!!! ~ Willydahivemind. http://gifninja.com/animatedgifs/120003/phoenixtrio.gif
Having some general topic based on something a group of people like?
Having a simple to use interface that isn't overrun with mass emoticons or endless sigs (aka customizable without being total chaos)
It also helps if the board in question is the main focus of the thing it is for. Fans will pretty much line up to be a part of it. Failing that there is always advertising, word of mouth, and other such ways to promote the board. If it is good, it kinda takes care of itself...
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There is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out
Though, I suppose it's only fair for me to give some contex. There is this board I'm kind of helping out with. It's one of those ProBoard things, if you know what that is. It doesn't really have a focus, other than just being a place to hang out.
I was just wondering if there was something I should be doing/suggesting/helping with.
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"You dare not look at my explosion? Like some kind of hero?! I'LL KILL YOU!!! ~ Willydahivemind. http://gifninja.com/animatedgifs/120003/phoenixtrio.gif