BCM Community

Hi Phil

I am not sure what this message is all about, but I REALLY wonder if you want a board without a login.  That seems like asking for trouble.  It is also an issue on the old board. 

I see nothing wrong with letting folks read all they want, but I STRONGLY recommend that the poster must have a profile.

I belong to several boards where they set it up to require a profile and they don't activate that profile automatically.  Further they screen that new profile for several posts to make sure that it is legit.

I suspect you have some reason for this approach, but I don't think anyone would object to having to set up a basic profile in order to post.  Lots of boards require that - indeed, most that I belong to.

If you think about all the negative posts on the old board, many were the result of a poster who could remain anonymous  and pester the good posters.

PS What happened to the spell check option?

First post.  Hope this new board works out okay.

Let The New Board Roll!!
I LIKE THIS NEW TOY :D

Well, actually, it started out as a test of the "sticky" function, but then I thought, there have been (very) frequently asked questions, so let's test that thread with "sticky"..  All responses in this thread were to address the things I am most frequently asked.

Why guest postings?  There is a reason, yes.  There is a very large # of regular posters whom I hear from that wish to keep the guest posting capability alive.  We may not be able to achieve a consensus on this issue, or it may take care of itself if spammers get through, or maybe some additional comprimise is available?  Anyone on the other side of the anonymous postings care to chime in? I'm always open for ideas and discussion.  I really enjoy the current board community and don't want to lose that.  But I hear what you are saying and do recognize that as a risk of the current approach. 

Spell check -  >:(     I just used on an earlier post today.  Now it's gone.  sigh.  I'll check into that. 

Please keep the suggestions, concerns and comments flowing.  I do appreciate it.

Best Regards, Phil

Quote from: rv_safetyman on March 30, 2006, 12:48:32 PM
Hi Phil

I am not sure what this message is all about, but I REALLY wonder if you want a board without a login.  That seems like asking for trouble.  It is also an issue on the old board. 

I see nothing wrong with letting folks read all they want, but I STRONGLY recommend that the poster must have a profile.

I belong to several boards where they set it up to require a profile and they don't activate that profile automatically.  Further they screen that new profile for several posts to make sure that it is legit.

I suspect you have some reason for this approach, but I don't think anyone would object to having to set up a basic profile in order to post.  Lots of boards require that - indeed, most that I belong to.

If you think about all the negative posts on the old board, many were the result of a poster who could remain anonymous  and pester the good posters.

PS What happened to the spell check option?

Aha - sticky feature.  Always stays at the top.  I s'ppose I could have guessed that tho'.  Just testing. 

Phil,

Jim has a good point. I think you will keep our regular viewers however, you won't be able to please everyone! I strongly belive you must have a profile to post any messages. That is most likely the reason for the new board anyway. Like spammers, and noname comments that are usually badmouthing someone.
Keep with the new format and you will see that our members WILL get used to it. Some faster and some slower.  But, Have faith in the MAK community, It's stronger than you may think!! ;)

Nick-

Great job ;D

Thank You

I'm familiar with this board software, it's used on several other, non-bus related bbs's I visit.  Once folk get used to it, it will be fine, but there is a learning curve - just like converting our buses!

RJL

The board looks great but will take getting used to. For some reason I cannot find the new post button.   ???  What is it supposed to look like. I tried the Help button but that didn't help.  :D
Thanks for the new board.

Phil, thanks for working on this.

I've got a suggestion though.  Could you identify at the bottom of the page that the "Previous" "Next" buttons are for the next topic? I thought it was to the next page of the post as on simular boards and ended up posting under the wrong topic.

Am I missing the spell check button or is it not yet working?

Thanks again for your efforts,

Tim

Ah, checking out the "modify" button!!! If only I could edit what I've said to my wife...  Oh, and I like that little button to the right of the last posters name which brings to/me to... the last message of the topic!  I like that.  Still think the buttons at the bottom right of the page as mentioned above could be more clearly identified as to where they are taking you.  (and spell check)

Quote from: Timnvt on March 31, 2006, 03:29:09 PM
...  If only I could edit what I've said to my wife... 

If only I could edit what my wife said to me!   :o

OK, lets start checking this out.... I see lots of icons... seems like I have a lot of options... I just want to write a note, let try posting.

Phil,

Great start -- keep up the good work.

BTW, I like your avatar -- you must be the big wheel around here   8)

Hey Mike,

Welcome to your board.   ;D

Quote from: mak on March 31, 2006, 05:26:58 PM
OK, lets start checking this out.... I see lots of icons... seems like I have a lot of options... I just want to write a note, let try posting.

Very nice job Phil. I agree with most of the others that feel a login should be required. I tried a board like this and it was hacked apart in a week on my site. Vicious people out there and we pay the price by signing up and registering. And like someone said, monitor their posts for a little bit. (I guess part of the "Newbie" thing.)

Very nice job though, wish you a lot of luck.

Dave Siegel
(Oh yeah........I did register, too)   ;D

Oh No, everyone knows I hate hi-tech changes.  If this keeps the board clean then it will be worth learning all the new tools you supply us with.  Good luck with the board, I am not sure how to make a new subject post yet but will keep searching and oh yea, did I say I hate Hi-tech changes??  I just had to try out the board before I embarass my self any more with my posts I frequently make.  Well, here goes!! :o

MAK, Phil,

Congratulations on your new bbs format. As expected from the #1 web site devoted to the hobby of converting buses into motorhomes, it looks to be a spectacular addition to your great web site!!

Best wishes,

Ian Giffin

Great job, Phil!  What a day! I get to be a new member on a new board and all on April Fools' Day.

Could that be an omen?

Congrat's,

NCbob

Quote from: |@n on April 01, 2006, 05:01:11 AM
MAK, Phil,

Congratulations on your new bbs format. As expected from the #1 web site devoted to the hobby of converting buses into motorhomes, it looks to be a spectacular addition to your great web site!!

Best wishes,

Ian Giffin

Ian - high praise indeed coming from you!  I take a lot of instruction and inspiration from you in how you maintain your board.

Kind Regards,
Phil

Hi Phil

Well after your announcement on the old board, we are getting lots of new members.  

It sure looks like folks like to play with all of the options.  I can only hope that use of some of the fancy work that others are playing with slows down a bit.  The scrolling text (in huge text no less) kind of grates on me a bit, but I guess I will get used to it.

Other than that, I continue to enjoy the great options.  

Once we get some real posts it will be fun to test the search option.

We are still on our maiden voyage and doing very well.  We are currently in Shoshone CA (Death Valley area) and fully enjoying the fruits of lots of hours and skinned/smashed hands    ;D

Looks like the spell check is still missing.

Phil, I contiune to be impressed with this software.

I started a new thread on fighting bus fires and was able to load pictures, insert a hyperlink and, of course, use the mandatory "smiley and frowny" faces  ;D

Great fun and super capabilty.

I love this format of B Boards. I belong to serveral using this format  I'm glad you made the move :)

Thanks for the encouragement.  Glad to have you on board   ;D

Best Regards, Phil

Congrats on the new format, Phil. I know it was a lot of work.

Funny, I had made a note to myself to look into SMF, as I saw it on Yummy Software's (http://www.yummysoftware.com/forum/index.php?action=collapse;c=3;sa=expand#3) forum recently. Tis very nice. You might want to look into the 'theme' they used, as it sure is easy on the eyes and not too 'busy.'

Great job and thank you for your work.

-Steve

Quote from: 8wheels on April 01, 2006, 02:00:40 PM
Congrats on the new format, Phil. I know it was a lot of work.

Funny, I had made a note to myself to look into SMF, as I saw it on Yummy Software's (http://www.yummysoftware.com/forum/index.php?action=collapse;c=3;sa=expand#3) forum recently. Tis very nice. You might want to look into the 'theme' they used, as it sure is easy on the eyes and not too 'busy.'

Great job and thank you for your work.

-Steve

Thanks Steve, and welcome aboard.  Someone also told me American Idol also uses this board.  Learning new stuff all the time.  I'm checkin' out the Yummy software link now. 

Best Regards, Phil

I love it.  I wonder how many remember back when the MAK board used to have  photos, I think it is a grand touch.  Really looking good Phil

Quote from: Don/TX on April 01, 2006, 04:58:17 PM
...how many remember back when the MAK board used to have  photos, I think it is a grand touch.

Well where's your avatar showing your brown booties? :)
OK I promise not to be a troublemaker.

Shiny new forum!

Registration seems nominal trouble for access to such a resource, and the software is the best I've seen.

Thanks for hosting!

Test Post - testing pic ::)

Quote from: Lightfoot on April 01, 2006, 06:13:00 PM
Shiny new forum!

Registration seems nominal trouble for access to such a resource, and the software is the best I've seen.

Thanks for hosting!

Glad to have you on board Lightfoot! 

I am definetly listening to all the votes for registration.   Almost all posters are registered now - even with guest access allowed. 

Best Regards,
Phil

Well, as one of the old geezers, I'll have to try some repying too.  I don't think it's a big deal to require a login for all posters.  That will prevent any troublemakers from attempting anonymous posts.  I don't know what provisions are there to verify/validate login registrations.  Some forums send an email and you're not on the list of registrants until you respond to an email sent by the system to validate the login.

Unfortunately there are always knuckleheads who want to make pests of themselves or show how smart they are by breaking into other people's homes, so to speak.  Hiding email addresses is OK, but I solved my spam problem by the excellent work my ISP does to block and capture spam.  My inbox spam dropped to near zero until recently when somebody figured out how to get some plain-looking investment "opportunities" past the filters.  But when you get 10,000 messages a month, 94% spam, and only one or two per day get past the gates, that's pretty good!

Now this requiring 50 posts before some of old timers get off of the "newbie" list -- that's something that just grates on a body. :-)   ::)  :o  ;D  [just trying out the emoticon buttons...

Clarke

Testing ??? ;D Looks Good

I hope this board does not get like (the other board) where you are afraid to ask a question because of a few people who always post sarcastic answers.

Looks like you have a winner Phil!
Thanks for all the hard work.
I set up this software on my old website and found it easy to use so when setting up my new site I set it up also, but hope it never gets used. The only reason I did was so I could turn on extra features in my shopping cart.
I for one, have to side with the ones who want registration. I think you may have problems if you don't.
Thanks again,
Dallas
PD4103-1085

Quote from: redbus on April 02, 2006, 09:30:03 AM
I hope this board does not get like (the other board) where you are afraid to ask a question because of a few people who always post sarcastic answers.

Hi redbus.  Welcome aboard.   ;D

I do try to delete sarcastic, or cutting comments from the board as I believe they provide absolutely NO value to the discussions.  Plus, it's not NICE..   :)   But some do get by me.  I hope you will feel at home here!

Best Regards,
Phil

Quote from: Clarke Echols on April 02, 2006, 08:51:07 AM
Well, as one of the old geezers, I'll have to try some repying too.  I don't think it's a big deal to require a login for all posters.  That will prevent any troublemakers from attempting anonymous posts.  I don't know what provisions are there to verify/validate login registrations.  Some forums send an email and you're not on the list of registrants until you respond to an email sent by the system to validate the login.

Unfortunately there are always knuckleheads who want to make pests of themselves or show how smart they are by breaking into other people's homes, so to speak.  Hiding email addresses is OK, but I solved my spam problem by the excellent work my ISP does to block and capture spam.  My inbox spam dropped to near zero until recently when somebody figured out how to get some plain-looking investment "opportunities" past the filters.  But when you get 10,000 messages a month, 94% spam, and only one or two per day get past the gates, that's pretty good!

Now this requiring 50 posts before some of old timers get off of the "newbie" list -- that's something that just grates on a body. :-)   ::)  :o  ;D  [just trying out the emoticon buttons...

Clarke

Hi Clarke,

We can change the number from 50.  It is our board!  (Thanks MAK)  And - we can change the Titles as well -  from Jr. Member to ???    Suggestions? 

I'm definetly listening to all the support coming in for registration.  Last time MAK tried to switch to a new board, the registration thing seemed to cause complete chaos.  This time also, before rollout,  I heard from quite a few who were concerned.  Now with the board here, not hearing much at all for anonymous/guest posts.

Maybe folk are tired of all the junk we had to sift through before & want the extra protection?

Best Regards, Phil
 

Phil,

Lets say when, we hit 50 posts we become a REGULAR CONTRIBUTER. :D

And when we hit, OOOOHHH-- 500 posts we become a NUSENCE and KNOW TOO MUCH! >:(


Nick-

Quote from: Nick Badame Refrig. Co. on April 02, 2006, 05:16:37 PM
Phil,

Lets say when, we hit 50 posts we become a REGULAR CONTRIBUTER. :D

And when we hit, OOOOHHH-- 500 posts we become a NUSENCE and KNOW TOO MUCH! >:(

I don't think I can handle that many STARS

Nick-

Nick - all I can say to that is ...

---

[/size]

---

Love the new setup - This board has helped me a lot.  Look forward to more help ;D

Quote from: Danny on April 02, 2006, 07:30:06 PM
Love the new setup - This board has helped me a lot.  Look forward to more help ;D

Great to have you on board Danny! 

Best Regards - Phil

Welcome Danny,

You are 499 posts away from Phil and I to LOL at you!

Nick-

I kinda like be'n refered to as a "newbee" maybe an advanced newbee should be next!LOL! I don't mind registering to post! Where do we register? An do we get like a free toaster or a gift certificate for a gallon of diesel or somethun? Busted Knuckle

Quote from: Busted Knuckle on April 02, 2006, 07:44:52 PM
I kinda like be'n refered to as a "newbee" maybe an advanced newbee should be next!LOL! I don't mind registering to post! Where do we register? An do we get like a free toaster or a gift certificate for a gallon of diesel or somethun? Busted Knuckle

Hay there Busted Knuckle - you are already registered!

This was more for those who wish to remain totally anonymous.  Which - I see almost NO anonymous posts.  I think Mike has been the only guest poster so far.  And that's really OK with me since it's his board and his nickle.   :)  ;D 

Kind Regards, Phil

   Phil there is a lot here for me to learn, I hope all works out. I dont mind being called a newbie since I've only had my doach 3 years.  Some people have been bussin for 20 or more years.

I like the idea of the spell check, mainly for an archive search, if something is mis-spelled it may not turn up in a search.

Ed Jewett

Quote from: Kristinsgrandpa on April 02, 2006, 08:27:18 PM
   Phil there is a lot here for me to learn, I hope all works out. I dont mind being called a newbie since I've only had my doach 3 years.  Some people have been bussin for 20 or more years.

I like the idea of the spell check, mainly for an archive search, if something is mis-spelled it may not turn up in a search.

Ed Jewett

Hi Ed,

Actually, newbie only means you have made less than 50 posts.  Maybe it should be called new member instead.?  Spell check will be here as soon as I can get some underlying files configured on the server.  Hopefully sune - eye kneed it tue!!   :) :) 

Welcome aboard - Phil

Hi Phil great job on the new forum...love it
Ron

Quote from: prevost82 on April 03, 2006, 12:28:45 PM
Hi Phil great job on the new forum...love it
Ron

Thanks Ron.  Welcome to the board!

Best Regards, Phil

 :) :) :)    Glad to find this board.   :) :) :)

Thinking I will buy a bus next year and will find lots of useful info here on what to look for and what to look out for.

people helping people

I love it  :)

Quote from: orogle on April 03, 2006, 04:58:53 PMpeople helping people

We'll help all right.  We'll help you spend every hour of free time you have on a project that will eat away big time at your assets!   Life is GOOD!  ;D

Quote from: Kristinsgrandpa on April 02, 2006, 08:27:18 PM
I like the idea of the spell check, mainly for an archive search, if something is mis-spelled it may not turn up in a search.

Using common misspellings  and abbreviations in your search may  locate even more data.     
Searching the archives brings up  a good point...Phil, will the old MAK board archives be available to thru this format?  Not being computer literate (not especially literate period!) these things must be 'splained to me??
Thanks, JR 

 I posted Cher's coach in my avatar. Had Britany Spears too, but that didn't seem too bus-like.  Reckon I should remove it...since I don't have quite enough cash to buy her 2003 Prevost 45' coach.  I does loolk nice in my "driveway"....Oh well.  Out it comes.   I kept the pix so emulation of the paint could be performed at some future time.   Really looked excellent!   
Best to all, still enjoying the new board.  This is a disorder! SOOOOO much fun.     
 

This is a better pix of one good looking coach.  Thing was immaculate.   It was on loan to Rhonda Vincent.  Rhonda killed her Prevost, the Martha White Flower Power"...blown engine.  So Cher loaned her bus to Rhonda.   Outa got a pix of Rhonda too.   That was OK.   I'd like to copy the paint scheme.  Don't know where to start.    ???

This new board is way better ,thanks Phil!  ;D

Testing out all of the cool features

Test Post with new account.

I like this new format too.  I don't need a spell check function, but I did have to go use my dictionary to see why people are using the word "avatar" in their posts.  After looking it up, I'm still puzzled but then my dictionary is a very old one (1970).   ;D

Quote from: Linda-4104-FL on April 04, 2006, 10:58:42 AM
I like this new format too.  I don't need a spell check function, but I did have to go use my dictionary to see why people are using the word "avatar" in their posts.  After looking it up, I'm still puzzled but then my dictionary is a very old one (1970).   ;D

Linda,
Some IT definitions for "Avatar"

A graphical image of a user, such as used in graphical real-time Chat applications, or, a graphical personification of a computer or a computer process, intended to make the computing or network environment a more friendly place.

an advanced Initiate who incarnates the Divine Mind and Universal Life of God at one or more levels of the Great Continuum of Consciousness. It is also used as an honorary title to indicate someone who has attained mastery in the Supracosmic Sphere. It is also used to designate the highest Initiate in the Third Transcendental Path.

A digital representation of you in the virtual world (3D chat rooms and VRML worlds for example). You choose a symbol to represent who you are; may be a cartoon, animal, or other character

An earthly manifestation of one of the gods in human or animal form, eg, Krishna is an avatar of Vishnu, Jesus is an avatar of Jehovah. A being through whom God manifests himself. The spiritual founder of an age or a dynasty. Such a one has supposedly progressed beyond the need to be reincarnated.

OR>>>> it could be just a picture that you upload or link to on another server.
Have Fun!
Dallas
BTB, I just strted using the Dermatophyte. He's cute!
DF

Linda,

Only my simple form

AVATARS- Meaning Pictures, or graphics

Dallas has the proper wording!

Nick-

[tr]On a different matter, I wonder what this button does?[/tr]

Apparently that button did nothing -- or perhaps it is operator error, always a possibility.    :-\

Quote from: Linda-4104-FL on April 04, 2006, 11:28:21 AM

Aha!  As I suspected, I could use a newer dictionary.  But so many of the words in the one I have are still perfectly good words, so it would be a shame to just throw them away!

[tr]On a different matter, I wonder what this button does?[/tr]

Linda,
You can't throw those words away!
If you read a newspaper after someone else, are those 'USED' words?

Nice board, it will be nice to be able to post pics, ect.
Keep up the good work
JimC 4106
Wisconsin

I love the new board.  One of the great new features is the ability to select a item and check all the post that interest you.

Denny
58 4104

I LIKE this board. It is taking some time to raise the learning curve but it has great features.
I believe this is the first time I have logged on and not found Richard "DML" on here. One of us needs to get a life other than the bus board I think.

Quote from: akroyaleagle on April 04, 2006, 06:51:16 PM
I LIKE this board. It is taking some time to raise the learning curve but it has great features.
I believe this is the first time I have logged on and not found Richard "DML" on here. One of us needs to get a life other than the bus board I think.

YOu mean there is something outthere besides the board and the bus???
WoW, Whoda thunk!

TestTest
Let's see how it looks.

Eric

Phil,

When I click on any item it will come up on the screen so that I have to scroll down a whole page to start to read the post.  I'll put up with that forever and still be grateful for your acievements on this board.  Would be nice if it worked like the old board in regards to the position of the post.

Thanks


JohnEd

Phil,

After I read a post I don't get an indication that I have visited that post.  The other board changed the font/boldness of the font of read posts.

Thanks

JohnEd

Quote from: JohnEd on April 04, 2006, 11:55:50 PM
Phil,

When I click on any item it will come up on the screen so that I have to scroll down a whole page to start to read the post.  I'll put up with that forever and still be grateful for your acievements on this board.  Would be nice if it worked like the old board in regards to the position of the post.

Thanks


JohnEd

Hi There JohnEd,

Welcome to the Board!

In your profile settings, you can change the look and feel of this - if I understand what you want to see.  You can have posts re-sorted so that the most recent posts are shown first.   There are a couple of other check boxes also for other preferences which some of the other members have usesd to more closely emulate the behavior of the old board.

Let me know - best regards,
Phil

Quote from: tomhamrick on March 31, 2006, 11:16:48 AM
The board looks great but will take getting used to. For some reason I cannot find the new post button.   ??? 

Top of bottom right....There is a button called "New Topic" on the main page.

Quote from: Ross on April 05, 2006, 07:08:49 AM

Quote from: tomhamrick on March 31, 2006, 11:16:48 AM
The board looks great but will take getting used to. For some reason I cannot find the new post button.   ??? 

Top of bottom right....There is a button called "New Topic" on the main page.

Nevermind...I responded to an old post.  I'm sure this was answered already.  Forgot I had set it to display new posts at the top. :)

Quote from: Grease Pit on April 03, 2006, 08:55:31 PM
Testing out all of the cool features

Hey Grease Pit.  I sure enjoy your posts from the old board.  Glad to see you here.   :)  Welcome aboard.

Best Regards, Phil

Quote from: akroyaleagle on April 04, 2006, 09:51:16 PM
I LIKE this board. It is taking some time to raise the learning curve but it has great features.
I believe this is the first time I have logged on and not found Richard "DML" on here. One of us needs to get a life other than the bus board I think.


Test it for me.

Here I am at 0900 Thursday AM. I spend most of the day in front of the computer and if no customers present I check up on the boards to see if anyone has found anything new.

I discovered something last night but now I may just not share it!

Richard

And I think Dallas spent all night here.

Quote from: DrivingMissLazy on April 06, 2006, 06:00:43 AM
Here I am at 0900 Thursday AM. I spend most of the day in front of the computer and if no customers present I check up on the boards to see if anyone has found anything new.

I discovered something last night but now I may just not share it!

Richard

And I think Dallas spent all night here.

Richard, I wern't Not Neither! I went to bed at 23:45 and didn't get up 'till 03:15.
Besides, against Dr's orders I spent all day yesterday on a ladder, and Dang those leg cramps get ya in the middle of the night.
Today I have to get ack up on the bloody ladder. but I'm gonna take a nap sometime, unless of course, there is something interesting on the boards.
Dallas

Thanks MAK for the change. I have explored a little on the board and I like what I see. Keep up the good work

Leroy

Phil... Hi

Nice to see the new board.

Loogging In should be a pre-requesit to posting and even to view postings on most if not all topics and post.
Members fequently give out locations, their phone numbers and even email address at times within their post. It dosen't take long for a savy spammer to figure out things and could seriously compromise your members and the board. [like the old one] Your members need to be protected.

I have a lot of experience running these types of PHP based boards and a humble suggestion would be to allow GUEST to view ONLY your own Welcome Message about what the board is for, Instructions on the use of the Board, any rules you wish to have and instructions on the registration process.

Unfortunately, you have to treat a guest as a "possible" threat because one of them could be. A guest should NOT have access to any member profiles, topics or postings [outside of your own Welcome Message and Instructions]. Registration should be handled by a system return email verification letter also. This will stop any intruder from using a phony email address to register which would allow the possibility of a spammer to become a member sitting in the wings, so to speak, gathering up information on your members.

Suspicious Members can be monitored by the Administrator or Moderator using the Admin Control Panel. A powerful tool to use is the logging of their IP address. If you need to Ban a fake member/Spammer, you can use their IP address, so if they try and re-register with another name and another fake email address, you will now know it is the same spammer by their unique IP address.

I realize that some of your previous members like to post as a guest but it may be a loop-hole you can't afford. Any member, can register using a handle, so anonymity is there for those that wish that level of privacy anyways.

Allowing things like posting a FLASH or other types of scripts, can also contain a virus, add-ware or spyware codes inside their flash postings in some cases. You may want to limit all that kind of functionality also.

You know my situation, broke down on the side of the road, problems coming from all directions, yet it was no problem for me to take that extra minute to register first to get assistance from your members. So if I can do it, under those trying times, others should not have a major objection, for the well being of the entire board community.

One of the major roles of the Board Admin and Moderator running a board is the protection of its members and their personal information.

IMO

Steve

Quote from: El-Sonador on April 10, 2006, 06:03:29 AM

Phil... Hi

Nice to see the new board.

Loogging In should be a pre-requesit to posting and even to view postings on most if not all topics and post.
Members fequently give out locations, their phone numbers and even email address at times within their post. It dosen't take long for a savy spammer to figure out things and could seriously compromise your members and the board. [like the old one] Your members need to be protected.

I have a lot of experience running these types of PHP based boards and a humble suggestion would be to allow GUEST to view ONLY your own Welcome Message about what the board is for, Instructions on the use of the Board, any rules you wish to have and instructions on the registration process.

Unfortunately, you have to treat a guest as a "possible" threat because one of them could be. A guest should NOT have access to any member profiles, topics or postings [outside of your own Welcome Message and Instructions]. Registration should be handled by a system return email verification letter also. This will stop any intruder from using a phony email address to register which would allow the possibility of a spammer to become a member sitting in the wings, so to speak, gathering up information on your members.

Suspicious Members can be monitored by the Administrator or Moderator using the Admin Control Panel. A powerful tool to use is the logging of their IP address. If you need to Ban a fake member/Spammer, you can use their IP address, so if they try and re-register with another name and another fake email address, you will now know it is the same spammer by their unique IP address.

I realize that some of your previous members like to post as a guest but it may be a loop-hole you can't afford. Any member, can register using a handle, so anonymity is there for those that wish that level of privacy anyways.

Allowing things like posting a FLASH or other types of scripts, can also contain a virus, add-ware or spyware codes inside their flash postings in some cases. You may want to limit all that kind of functionality also.

You know my situation, broke down on the side of the road, problems coming from all directions, yet it was no problem for me to take that extra minute to register first to get assistance from your members. So if I can do it, under those trying times, others should not have a major objection, for the well being of the entire board community.

One of the major roles of the Board Admin and Moderator running a board is the protection of its members and their personal information.

IMO

Steve

Phil, I have to agree with the above post. To my knowledge there is only one frequent poster that is vehemently opposed to registering and my personal feelings is that we could do without him. LOL
Richard

Quote from: DrivingMissLazy on April 10, 2006, 06:09:22 AM

Quote from: El-Sonador on April 10, 2006, 06:03:29 AM

Phil... Hi

Nice to see the new board.

Loogging In should be a pre-requesit to posting and even to view postings on most if not all topics and post.
Members fequently give out locations, their phone numbers and even email address at times within their post. It dosen't take long for a savy spammer to figure out things and could seriously compromise your members and the board. [like the old one] Your members need to be protected.

I have a lot of experience running these types of PHP based boards and a humble suggestion would be to allow GUEST to view ONLY your own Welcome Message about what the board is for, Instructions on the use of the Board, any rules you wish to have and instructions on the registration process.

Unfortunately, you have to treat a guest as a "possible" threat because one of them could be. A guest should NOT have access to any member profiles, topics or postings [outside of your own Welcome Message and Instructions]. Registration should be handled by a system return email verification letter also. This will stop any intruder from using a phony email address to register which would allow the possibility of a spammer to become a member sitting in the wings, so to speak, gathering up information on your members.

Suspicious Members can be monitored by the Administrator or Moderator using the Admin Control Panel. A powerful tool to use is the logging of their IP address. If you need to Ban a fake member/Spammer, you can use their IP address, so if they try and re-register with another name and another fake email address, you will now know it is the same spammer by their unique IP address.

I realize that some of your previous members like to post as a guest but it may be a loop-hole you can't afford. Any member, can register using a handle, so anonymity is there for those that wish that level of privacy anyways.

Allowing things like posting a FLASH or other types of scripts, can also contain a virus, add-ware or spyware codes inside their flash postings in some cases. You may want to limit all that kind of functionality also.

You know my situation, broke down on the side of the road, problems coming from all directions, yet it was no problem for me to take that extra minute to register first to get assistance from your members. So if I can do it, under those trying times, others should not have a major objection, for the well being of the entire board community.

One of the major roles of the Board Admin and Moderator running a board is the protection of its members and their personal information.

IMO

Steve

Phil, I have to agree with the above post. To my knowledge there is only one frequent poster that is vehemently opposed to registering and my personal feelings is that we could do without him. LOL
Richard

Thanks for the input - and I probably didn't communicate this properly before, but there is no guest posting allowed.  That was discontinued a few days back - I put that change in the first message in this topic.  Also, while there is a flash button, flash insertion  is not allowed.  Don't know how to get rid of the button yet -  ???  But again, I did find the setting in the board management to disallow flash.  Small steps.   :)

Kind Regards, Phil

Post error When I post. Why?

Ericbsc,

Give me more info, what were you posting in?  What exactly did the error say?

Nick Badame-

sorry for your inconvience!

It only gives me the error when I attach a photo. Without one I can post and it shows up.

Ericbsc,

Sometimes that happens when your photo is too large. Did you notice that message about your photo?

If so you can go to our help section under, Resizing Photos.

Let me know!

Nick-

Hello Eric,

I also e-mailed you instructions!

Let me know!

Nick-

How about reducing the size of the three banners at the top so those with 600x800 screens don't have to scroll to see the messages?  TIA, John

John,

Welcome To the board!

Good Point.  I belive Phil and MAK have discussed that allready and it's in the works.

I'll keep you posted.

Nick Badame-

Quote from: cjm on May 08, 2006, 06:52:52 PM
How about reducing the size of the three banners at the top so those with 600x800 screens don't have to scroll to see the messages?  TIA, John

Thanks for the feedback John.  It's always a balancing act between making the ads too small for the 1280x1024 and above screens, and the 800x600 screens.   I'll pass along the info tho' on the issues with the 800x600 and try to do some additional testing to make sure it doesn't get too cumbersome!!!  We are definetly working on some new ads and ad structure.  Nick as absolutely correct on that.

There is an up/down arrow at the top of the page, directly under the "MAK Publishing Bulletin Board" header.  Clicking on that may also buy you a couple more inches as well.

Welcome aboard.   :)

Phil

Thanks, Phil & Nick.  The arrow doesn't affect the width; it just expands/contracts the information displayed in the header.  The header's width appears to be the correct width for 800x600 but the banners extend past it.  John

Quote from: cjm on May 09, 2006, 04:02:21 PM
Thanks, Phil & Nick. The arrow doesn't affect the width; it just expands/contracts the information displayed in the header. The header's width appears to be the correct width for 800x600 but the banners extend past it. John

I have to turn my favorites off to get a full screen without anything cut off.
Richard

Quote from: cjm on May 09, 2006, 04:02:21 PM
Thanks, Phil & Nick.  The arrow doesn't affect the width; it just expands/contracts the information displayed in the header.  The header's width appears to be the correct width for 800x600 but the banners extend past it.  John

Thanks John,

So, it is the width that is the problem? 

Kind Regards, Phil

Yes.  If I scroll over to see the whole message, I can't see the poster's name.  Before the banners were put on, I could.  John

Quote from: cjm on May 09, 2006, 08:43:01 PM
Yes.  If I scroll over to see the whole message, I can't see the poster's name.  Before the banners were put on, I could.  John

OK John,  I think I understand now.  Thanks for the feedback.  I'll see what can be done.

I may ask for your help testing after we get some different ads.  If you don't mind!!   

:)

Hope this helps, Phil

Quote from: Geoff on May 27, 2006, 05:56:28 PM
This board is now my last choice for web browsing. I vote we take away the member status and message count to stem the lame and inane postings made simply to gain points.

The beauty of this board is that the 'lame" posts can be evaluated rather quickly and ignored, without undue effort. 
Not to appear argumentative, but what may seem "lame and inane" may be to some, but others may view the posts as relevent...or entertaining.  Whole subjects can be easily ignored.   
I rather doubt that  altering the member count would have any useful effect on the lame postings.  Inane postings and responses appear on all websites.   
There is no perfect construct for a website that hosts as many diverse members (and methods of internet connection) as this website.  IMHO, the MAK board is as good as it gets.   I don't care one way or another about the "member" number of posts, but the MAK board is the first and best  place to browse for bus conversion info...
One thing that will throw a damper on any exchange would be to start adding a lot of "rules" to the board regarding what is "reasonable" to post.   
Thanks to Mike, Phil, and Nick and all the others that make this board work so well!.  JR
   

Welcome to the new board.  This is a quick start.

First things first:Forum Rules
This BB is intended for the sole purpose of sharing conversion and bus related information among visitors to our web site. These rules must be followed in order for us to continue this free exchange of info. No bad mouthing of any business or individual is permitted. Absolutely no items for sale are to be posted. Interested in placing a classified or web ad, please contact our advertising dept. at (714)799-0062 or e-mail to: web@busconversions.com.

About the new board
We've tried to keep things as similar to the old board as possible.  As such, there is One area for all topics.

Key Differences.  What we hope to add with the new board in addition to images, messaging, and current message search function: 
1  BBS searchable archives.  (Couldn't be done with the old board)
2  Better defense against spammers and other such nuisances.

Keep in mind - you don't need to use all the fancy formatting to get started.  Simple text works just fine!!!  Many are having fun with the new features.  That is good too.  Do It Your Way - works here.   


Details - similarities:
1)  Features such as posting,  messaging, pictures, etc.,  are only available to members.  This is to protect privacy and keep spammers away.  If you do register, you can use the option to "hide" your email address from the other members if you would prefer.

2) There will only be an All Topics area.  Folks seem to like it that way that frequent the MAK board.  It has worked well this way over the years, so we'll run with it.  Good suggestions which may augment this include a possibility of a tag, or some other way of quickly searching topics.  Still working on this.

Details - added features:

1) Searchable archives.  To be added once the current board switchover is accomplished and stabilized.
2) Chat room may follow.

Other notes:

"newbie" status.  This is a number set by the board which ties to the number of posts a member has submitted.  The jump from newbie to Jr. Member is 50 posts.  Full Member is 100 posts.  We can change any of this.  But for now, that is how it is setup.

Please let me know if you have any questions - best regards - Phil