Posted by Dinah on January 18, 2008, at 10:25:19
In reply to Re: new newbie, posted by Dr. Bob on January 16, 2008, at 22:03:57
Going to say hi is very nice. No doubt about it. But it doesn't solve the problem that someone writes a post that's important to them, puts it where they think they're supposed to put it, and then are redirected to a board where they're likely to get answers. And have to retype their post. One in which they may have invested a lot of time.
I think the function of the newbie board could be done with a welcome screen after registration, directing new members to the proper board. And with reminders to frequenters of each board to warmly greet people with new green things next to their names. Having all posts answered would be ideal of course. But people could make an extra effort to greet newbies.
It was a nice gesture, Dr. Bob, and a nice try. But not many newcomers use it, and as a result even the best intentioned of greeters slip in checking the board, because they're not used to seeing much activity. And greetings are usually (and properly) a direction to a more active board, so people have to post twice, which is not very warm or welcoming.
Unless you can find someone well educated in medications willing to post answers to newcomers in sufficient depth, I think the newbie board is a well intentioned thought that just hasn't worked out.
And even if you do find posters who can do that, is it the right thing to split up answers that are potentially helpful to others?
Incidentally, I think putting the old search function back in would do more to welcome newcomers than the newbie board does. People would more easily be able to search the archives.
poster:Dinah
thread:788194
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20071106/msgs/807391.html