Re-organizing the forums

[Muhammad]

I've been thinking about this for a while:

Our existing forum organization is a bit fragmented. There's a lot of overlap, for example the "general tractor topics" could fit into any brand forum, and any of the topics in brand-specific forums could fit into general tractor topics, with a tag for brands.

Many other forums are just focused on one brand so the categories are useful to segment the topics.

For us, it's become a bit of can of worms.

Having said that, if you started with a blank slate, how would YOU organize TBN's topics?

I'll reply with my idea later on but I'm curious to get some feedback without influence.

 

[Wagtail]

Change?

'We' don't like change.

 

[MAX-24-Dean]

Change?

'We' don't like change.

I agree, Human nature is, "please don't change". Were used to it this way.

With all the new members maybe it is a good idea as it may keep more traffic on the forum.
So if there is a way to make the forum more useful, I'm all for it.

 

[George2615]

I like the forum the way it is. I really don't want to have all general topics lumped into one place. I like to read about specific brands and topics pertaining to that brand. I do read a lot of topics about other brands but since I don't own or haven't own that brand I don't feel qualified to reply. Out of all the threads on this forum I'm probably only interested in maybe a dozen or so that I frequently reply to. Personal health issues of my wife and I have limited my activities and replies the past few months.
If you see a way to make it easier for you or more user friendly then go for it. After all, its your forum and I appreciate all the work you do to keep it running.

 

[woody]

Since I log in most everyday I usually just start with the new post tab and scan down till I find something.

 

[jyoutz]

Since I log in most everyday I usually just start with the new post tab and scan down till I find something.

I do the same

 

[CalG]

I've been thinking about this for a while:

Our existing forum organization is a bit fragmented. There's a lot of overlap, for example the "general tractor topics" could fit into any brand forum, and any of the topics in brand-specific forums could fit into general tractor topics, with a tag for brands.

Many other forums are just focused on one brand so the categories are useful to segment the topics.

For us, it's become a bit of can of worms.

Having said that, if you started with a blank slate, how would YOU organize TBN's topics?

I'll reply with my idea later on but I'm curious to get some feedback without influence.

A useful search function and a "what's new" button is all I ever use to find "topics"

Work on the useful search function! Don't make it so hard to use or so ambiguous in the return.

 

[Phil Timmons]

These guys do not even change their underwear. It is WHY they are on here. No one will talk to them in real life. Would recommend No Changes as the big improvement.

 

[dstig1]

I read by forum, and not all of them. A few of the general ones - projects, build it yourself are often great. Kubota tractors (one or more of those), the repair forums, hydraulics, and the fun ones like rural living and the front porch. Plus others, but you get the idea.

 

[JasperFrank]

I've been thinking about this for a while:

Our existing forum organization is a bit fragmented. There's a lot of overlap, for example the "general tractor topics" could fit into any brand forum, and any of the topics in brand-specific forums could fit into general tractor topics, with a tag for brands.

Many other forums are just focused on one brand so the categories are useful to segment the topics.

For us, it's become a bit of can of worms.

Having said that, if you started with a blank slate, how would YOU organize TBN's topics?

I'll reply with my idea later on but I'm curious to get some feedback without influence.

I POSTED a question about a cub cadet. Posted in that area. I figured there would be some response, but nothing. I like to help people with their stuff, but if its my stuff, placed in the correct area I GET NOTHING.

 

[Sportsman762]

I think that a few of the Brands have too many categories. Below are the changes I would make:
John Deere
-Buying/Pricing
-Owning/Operating
-Lawn & Garden

New Holland/Ford, Massey Ferguson,
-Buying/Pricing
-Owning/Operating

New Holland/Ford should have Case International added to it "New Holland/Ford/Case International"

The following forums should be reduced to a single category:
Mahindra
Kioti
LS
Summit
RK
The Vintage Tractors should be consolidated into a single forum.

I think the forum is getting to segregated. For example "LS Tractor Buying/Pricing" has not had a post since 12/28. Who even looks at that forum if it has not had a post in almost 5 months? Stagnate forums are not good for @Muhammad or members such as @JasperFrank as members get frustrated that their questions do not get answered. If a forum has not had a post in 1-2 weeks I would look strongly at consolidating it as inactive forums make it hard to find the data your looking for.

My opinion is not strong, however I would not recommend messing with any of the more active forums.

 

[mllud]

I'm already confused!

 

[mrmikey]

Since I log in most everyday I usually just start with the new post tab and scan down till I find something.

Same here.
I like it the way it is but as was stated, it's ultimately your decision and the fact that you asked speaks lots. I appreciate the work that you do.

 

[dodge man]

I like it the way it is but if you change it up I’ll be ok with it.

 

[George2615]

Since I log in most everyday I usually just start with the new post tab and scan down till I find something.

I do the same.

 

[Muhammad]

Basically, we have the same types of topics getting posted everywhere.

What I think we need is a simplified structure that allows narrowing results based on limited sub-topics.

For example one main Kubota section, one main John Deere section, that pulls all threads for the brand and allows filtering.

There are Kubota topics dotted all over the forum but currently finding them involves clicking way too many times.

Same goes for lots of other main topics. There are troubleshooting/mechanical threads all over the place and we need to get them into more simplified areas so they are easier to find for both the members who want to answer, or find answers.

A Kubota feed should show everything related to Kubota and then allow filtering based on model series or a few main thread types.

I guess the best way to explain is to mock up some visuals at some point...