Just wondering

giorgi

i always wondered why any thread topics never got going and were always only two or three maybe a few more replys long, then I realised....

its cause your not allowed to have any opinions! I dont know what you are supposed to say in these threads and no one else seems to either!

So mods, why is no-one allowed to voice theire opinion - and when they do, why are they given warnings??

fits

Personally I believe that all opinions should be allowed to be expressed on here, and would only close threads as a last resort. My style of moderating is fairly laissez faire I think with the view that we need to facilitate threads rather than police them.

However users really need to remain polite and civil to each other and make valid points too.

I'm going to leave this thread open as I'm wondering if many people share the OP's opinion.

Edit: and btw, I'm looking for feedback on the forum and moderating here. Not personal attacks.

needadvice

I have disagreed regularly with opinions here in an open debate style never had a problem its all down to how you express your opnion not what your opnion is. I think before I type.

Opinion? Yes

Diatribe and drivel? No

elusiveguy

looking at the thread I believe prompted this thread, it appears to me that the perpetrater of said diatribe was give no warnings whereas the OP was chastised for stating that in her opinion instructors were "not so good".

Hardly diatribe, so why was giorgio singled out???

And the posting of a follow up thread shows that she had clearly not gotten all the information on the topic which, to me, shows the mods error very clearly.

I think alot of the moderation is very heavy handed but it's an issue with boards.ie in general, maybe due to the size, maybe due to the choice of mods.

EDIT: I think this thread shows very clearly the differences in the attitudes of the mods here, as do the responses in this one

convert

Being somebody who reads more often than I post on the equestrian, it appears, in my opinion, that the posters who complain most frequently tend to be those who are either 1) new or 2) who have not received a satisfactory response to their posts (i.e. their opinions haven't been supported).

Personally, I feel the thread is well moderated. I prefer to read threads that are entirely on topic and don't include realms of irrelevant information and people arguing over minute detail and points of minimum importance.

Regarding to the threads posted by giorgi, I think (and I could be wrong here) that it was probably closed due to off-hand and reactory comments, which appear to have being posted before thinking. I for one found it both interesting and plausible that somebody would prefer to teach their respective other at home rather than going to a riding school, so long as the individual instructing is both competent and experienced, and that a quiet horse is available. Unfortunately I can't teach my 'other half' to ride at home as my horses simply aren't quiet enough. In this situation, it is better to go to a riding school where suitable horses are available.

However, I found the comments that the majority of instructors quite insulting to be honest. It doesn't impact me personally, as I'm not an instructor, but for those who are, I feel it's completely unfair. Of course, I'm not denying that some instructors are better than others, but a complete over-generalisation is, I feel, out of order. Like needadvice mentioned, once an opinion is expressed in a logical, fair and well-thought out manner, and is not insulting to anybody, then it's fine. If it's simply stated that, for instance, that every instructor is useless, then by all means I think it's fair game that the poster and the thread should be warned, and if necessary, banned or closed.

I know I may be in a minority, but I feel that each forum and thread needs to be closely monitored. I know a quite a few people who have been mentioned by name on other forums and have had some very hurtful and untrue things said about them, both of which were forbidden according to the rules of both boards.ie and of the forum in question. The pots in question remained there for almost 48 hours, despite having been reported several times. In this case the mods were clearly not doing their job and the thread spiralled out of control, despite warnings to posters. In this case the mods should have just stepped in, deleted the posts and closed the thread, and all distress and problems would have been solved.

Giorgi, if you take a look through the equestrian forum and look back over all the pages, you'll see there are plenty of threads in which there has been open discussion and debate, but it has been done properly. People have worded their posts so as to avoid any ambiguity or potential problems. They do not insult each other, deliberately or accidentally, by over-general statements.
If I'm not mistaken, you're relatively new to boards.ie as a poster. I remember what it was like when I first started posting, and it can be a little daunting as well as a little tough to get used to, as everybody seems to know exactly how things work. Maybe if you read through the rules and suggestions to posting which have been included on the boards.ie homepage as well as the more specific guidelines which were posted on the equestrian forum, then things may seem to make a little more sense and you will gain an insight into the mods' way of thinking and why they do what they do. Afterall, they're there to make sure that we don't do anything wrong, that threads don't go way off topic and become tedious to read, and, most importantly, to stop boards.ie getting in trouble.
Contrary to what you think, elusiveguy, I think it's more important to closely moderate each forum. Ok, some may feel that this is being 'heavy-handed', but if things start to go out of control, even for a second, then it may just spiral from there and, in a worst case scenario, then we could lose the equestrian forum (extreme, I know, but still not impossible).

In short, I'm happy with the way this thread is being moderated. Good job mods

fits

Well at this stage I would like to point out that the 'report post' function (red triangle in bottom left corner) really helps the mods. I dont log on to boards as much as I used to so this flags problems for me. I know Zaraba is really busy these days too.

I didnt see the original thread until a few days after it was posted. I did find it an interesting topic, but if the language of some of the posters had been toned down a productive discussion could have ensued. I do like the way we keep threads mostly on topic here. But there is no doubt that the emergence of more specialised equestrian forums probably keeps this place quieter than it might have been.

I pretty much echo what convert has said.

There are far too many forums on boards.ie where the modding is not strict enough and it has resulted in complete ****e being posted in the majority of new posts. Result of that is that while post count in the forum is up, quality is down.

I also take issue with people who write lazy posts - ie 'lamness, discuss'. If you don't take the time to put the effort into the question then don't expect me to put the effort in the answer.

Another point: there are somtimes comments made here that you would not say to a persons face at a show or in a yard. Well, then, don't say them here. Keyboard warriors really piss me off and if you start spewing crap that you wouldn't say down the yard I will do something about it. Thankfully, this is uncommon but I don't plan on letting it become common.

As fits mentioned, there are plenty of forums where you can go and chat about your horse and where you are more then welcome to go off topic. Here, you can post questions and differences in opinions are welcome, but opinions that have reasoning and thought behind, not some brain fart that has been 'thought' of and typed out in 3 seconds.

If people aren't happy with my style of modding, I am more then willing to step down as mod. However, I haven't had complaints made to me, nor have I been made aware of complaints to the admins or Smods. If you are unhappy, drop me a PM or PM fits. I don't bite and I don't ban people for the hell of it.

squidge

Zaraba, nice to see my thread was closed too. There was no need to be so rude in your reply. I don't know what your problem is and frankly I don't want to know. I'd be more than happy to see you "step down" as a mod. I've a funny feeling that was an empty threat though...

Anyway I won't be back to this forum again, it's the only one on boards I've found to be both un-welcoming and unhelpful. Maybe think of re-naming the forum "The world according to Zaraba".... might be more appropriate given that nobody else seems to be able to string an opinion together (according to Zaraba of course).

fits

^ you see that there ^
Thats not really constructive criticism and its not going to make this forum a nicer place.

Btw, I closed the other thread for consistency, but I probably would not have closed the original thread. Different style of moderating but it doesnt mean either is correct.

elusiveguy

fits wrote: »

Different style of moderating but it doesnt mean either is correct.

but you partake and guide a thread in the correct direction. Locking down a thread helps no-one

elusiveguy

elusiveguy wrote: »

but you partake and guide a thread in the correct direction. Locking down a thread helps no-one

I'm sorry, its not the duty of mods to 'create' and 'guide' conversations. We simply clean up the mess that can sometimes occur, ie spammers, people breaking the charter etc.

I fail to see what the problem is: a thread was locked as there were complaints from users. People were posting crap. I didn't infract anyone, I didn't ban anyone. I locked a thread that had gone off topic.

You are all responsible people. Its up to you to stick to the rules, break them and then you force me or fits to moderate based on how you broke the rules. It is not up to us to hold you by the hand and guide you nicely back. If you are caught speeding, do you give out that the Guard didn't teach you how to use the break? No, you get penalty points or a warning.

You should have all read the charter, its not the problem, nor the responsibility of myself or fits to bring you nicely back when you break it.

If you don't like this, then there are other forums. I really don't care. The rules in the charter were set up and agreed on by members at the start. They have been reviewed many times since then. You don't like them? Go somewhere else.

elusiveguy

I don't see how your "put up or shut up" attitude is good for the forum or anyone on it....

Then take it to Feedback.

Actually, thats changed. Take it to feedback or Helpdesk.

togster

I love this forum. Modded very fairly imo

tirchonaill77

I am so glad someone has spoke up about this forum. I was new to horseriding in June and came on here so interact with like minded horsey people.

I found that this site is very unwelcoming so much so that I wont post anything incase moderater zaraba puts some smart answer that makes people feel stupid. Most of the mods are fine but the attitude of said mod is terrible, short, snappy answers, with a "I know everything" helps nobody. I moved onto newrider.co.uk forum where people actually help you, give advice, not make people feel like loosers for not knowing something. The reason why you dont have really that many new members on here is simply down to attitude. I personally think Zaraba is some sort of power trip and likes to knock others confidence to expressing opinions on this forum. The attitude says it all when you get a reply .... go to feedback then and actually from now one I will! Thanks for your one bit of good advice on here

otwb

Don't post very often, but IMO mods are very fair. There have been a number of threads/posters allowed progress which I would happily have closed down if I had my own little dictatorship. Looks as if its a tough job to keep threads on topic, but it makes for better discussion of a subject when people refrain from getting personal. Also Bl***y irritating when people re-open threads which have been closed for a reason - if you have something really important to say and the thread is locked then why not pm the OP????

Good job mods, keep it up.

skink

will someone please think about the horses in all this:eek:

here we are fighting and squabbling, and no one seems to care about the nags in all this!:eek:

I had a troubled past on boards, banned a few times etc, even banned once from this forum(probably deserved, but the dig i made was unresistable!) who cares what the mods are like, you can still post your opinion, grow a neck, stand up for yourself, if someone makes a smart comment about what you posted, reply with a comeback, just remember to keep on topic!

anyway have to say fits and zaraba are too cool for school, keep up the good job and don't mind the naysayers!

togster

tirchonaill77 wrote: »

I am so glad someone has spoke up about this forum. I was new to horseriding in June and came on here so interact with like minded horsey people.

I found that this site is very unwelcoming so much so that I wont post anything incase moderater zaraba puts some smart answer that makes people feel stupid. Most of the mods are fine but the attitude of said mod is terrible, short, snappy answers, with a "I know everything" helps nobody. I moved onto newrider.co.uk forum where people actually help you, give advice, not make people feel like loosers for not knowing something. The reason why you dont have really that many new members on here is simply down to attitude. I personally think Zaraba is some sort of power trip and likes to knock others confidence to expressing opinions on this forum. The attitude says it all when you get a reply .... go to feedback then and actually from now one I will! Thanks for your one bit of good advice on here

OK seeing as this is still open...i'll have a go. You have posted 6 times on boards.ie. I couldn't be bothered checking your posts as you couldn't have bothered to post what you had a problem with.

I have no issue with this forum at all. The mods and the regular users contribute a great deal. You can hardly count your 6 posts as a good contribution. I am always happy to see new people post on the forum but either is it neccessary that you do. Do not expect a great deal if you can't be bothered to give a little back in the way of patience or information. Thats the way of the world.

Now back OT, yes the mods are cool. :pac:

fits

Well I wouldnt like to think that new users and new riders would feel intimidated about posting here. It is very easy as someone with experience to get frustrated at certain questions when really people have to learn. And often the only way to learn is by asking these questions. A bit of patience goes a long way.

If you're not going to say something helpful, say nothing at all. Report the post if its a heap of bull.

elusiveguy

fits wrote: »

Well I wouldnt like to think that new users and new riders would feel intimidated about posting here. It is very easy as someone with experience to get frustrated at certain questions when really people have to learn. And often the only way to learn is by asking these questions. A bit of patience goes a long way.

If you're not going to say something helpful, say nothing at all. Report the post if its a heap of bull.

and that sounds like a great attitude for a moderator....

convert

squidge wrote: »

Zaraba, nice to see my thread was closed too. There was no need to be so rude in your reply. I don't know what your problem is and frankly I don't want to know. I'd be more than happy to see you "step down" as a mod. I've a funny feeling that was an empty threat though...

Anyway I won't be back to this forum again, it's the only one on boards I've found to be both un-welcoming and unhelpful. Maybe think of re-naming the forum "The world according to Zaraba".... might be more appropriate given that nobody else seems to be able to string an opinion together (according to Zaraba of course).

You've 4 posts in total on boards.ie (in 2 forums) and already you're calling for the resignation of a mod... Seriously... :rolleyes:

doctor evil

Just because one is not a prolific poster does not mean they are not a prolific reader.

tirchonaill77 try horse and hound online, it is a lot more laise fare (sp?) Its not a sugar coated forum but has an outstanding wealth of knowledge.

The only way to learn anything is to ask!

The only stupid question is the one not asked!

Perhaps we should have those statements on a banner at the top of a forum.

MDFM

I think this is a very useful and informative forum, i've never had any issues with any of the mods. If i do, i can pretty much defend myself(if i feel it necessary) but if i cross the line i'll also accept my wrong-doing (again if i feel it necessary).
Assuming that we all are adults here???, then look, its only a forum after all!!! It shouldnt be taken too seriously either. What people say here can genuinely often be mis-interpretated - so if someone disagrees with you in no uncertain terms, so what, it doesnt necessarily mean they are having a go at you.. if they were to say the same thing to you face to face, the tone of the voice and their persona would be much clearer to you, however on a forum, its very easy to jump to the wrong conclusion as to what someone is coming out with.
That said, and i don't want to drag it up again for the sake of it, but the post about riding instructors, yes it did seem that the op was putting down instructors, and that was based on her own experiences. I did post my views on it, prob didnt say what i wanted to say either, but, like what was already stated here - there really was no need to drag it up again. I'm not posting here that long, but i've being 'lurking' on this site for a long time, and the mods are right, there was a lot of useless, pointless, uninformative posts - and you can see where they often lead to - an argument, insults, name calling - there totally is no need for any of us to go down that road, i think we are all past the playground bullying stage. Even coming on here and slating the mods, is pointless, imo. If you have issues with them or anyone else, will you for god's sake be mature enough to deal with it yourself - iron out your issues with the mod (or whoever) - and keep it private (ie PM), differences of opinion do exist and we should respect that. If you cannot sort out your grievances that way then maybe resort to complaining to the powers that be. But, to be honest, if my grievances were that strong i think i'd just leave the forum completely. Just be responsible for your own actions, agree to disagree if you have to, but don't resort to childish complaining as some posters have done here already, its only a forum after all!!!!

convert

tirchonaill77 wrote: »

I am so glad someone has spoke up about this forum. I was new to horseriding in June and came on here so interact with like minded horsey people.

I found that this site is very unwelcoming so much so that I wont post anything incase moderater zaraba puts some smart answer that makes people feel stupid. Most of the mods are fine but the attitude of said mod is terrible, short, snappy answers, with a "I know everything" helps nobody. The reason why you dont have really that many new members on here is simply down to attitude. I personally think Zaraba is some sort of power trip and likes to knock others confidence to expressing opinions on this forum. The attitude says it all when you get a reply .... go to feedback then and actually from now one I will! Thanks for your one bit of good advice on here

Ok, as somebody who has been on this forum for a while I began to think I had become too used to the ways of this forum and wasn't looking at it from a new poster's point of view. So I decided to carry out a little research. I looked up all the threads in which you posted, to see what you had written and the replies you had received. I read your posts, the replies you had received and the replies that zaraba had posted. In all honesty, I really don't see what you're complaining about. Everyone was helpful and made suggestions in a bid to assist and advise you. Zaraba made one point of information to you, and if that's the post you felt was a 'smart answer' and made you feel stupid, then I don't think it's fair that you openly state that the mod is on a power trip looking to dent people's confidence. From reading it I felt it was just sharing an extra little bit of information, but maybe it was misinterpreted. Afterall, it was a relatively short answer that maybe could have been phrased a little better.

Maybe we should all put a little more effort into how we phrase our posts so as to ensure that our answers, questions or comments cannot be misconstrued. Afterall, due to the lack of emphasis which we place on words when speaking, it's much more difficult to put across one's point of view in the written word as opposed to the spoken word.

Ok, that's me done on this. I'm happy with the way the forum is being moderated. Afterall, it's quality that counts, right?

fits

Well the feedback here has been pretty positive in general.

Its up to all users to be a bit more open towards new riders and users.

We just all need to remember that if its not contributing to the thread, dont post it.

EMZ0907

i would be a newbee to this site in general and when i first posted a thread i got a reply from zaraba. to be completely honest i thought i was very aggressive and intimidating. i really felt put off about being on the site!but after we dissussed a very minor misunderstanding, i realised that zaraba wasnt meaning to be aggressive or trying to intimidate me,i had just misunderstood the tone because the topic was a very sensitive subject for me.i also had a reply edited dramatically by zaraba, but it was my mistake on what i said.i wasnt trying to be insulting in what i had posted but after it was edited i could see how it could be interprited the wrong way and upset someone.i completely agree with zaraba that you shouldnt say anything on this that you wouldnt say in a yard or in person.i have found everyone welcoming and helpful with even the sillyest of problems ive had!(inc zaraba) ok maybe sometimes things could be worded maybe a little softer for new people like myself finding their feet but all in all i think they do a great job!there is alot to deal with on just one forum and there is always always always going to be someone that is not happy with someones opinion,closure or editing of a thread.

i definatley think that if you have a problem, you should pm the person or just say it.i always believe in standing up for yourself because no one has the right to bad mouth or belittle you.aaannndddd maybe some people could try be a bit softer in their approach as to not offend the newbees!!!

well thats my rant done!i love this site and have really enjoyed getting advice and hearing peoples suggestions!its important to me to learn as much as i can, and who better from than the people who know best!:D

puppywuppy

I don't post very often on boards.ie, but I'm on line quite a bit and read a lot of forums, including this one.
To me, the equestrian forum is great, really informative, and well mod'ed! Guidelines are given clearly and concisely and threads are stopped before they get out of hand, which is a good thing, as I've seen threads on other forums get really out of hand, which is completely unhelpful.
I also like the fact that the threads stay on topic and don't go over-board in any way, and that everything is down to earth and practical. I've seen other forums where everything is focused on how cute horses are and all the tricks they can do rather than having anything like is on this forum. Everything here is helpful and informative. I come here to learn about 'horsey' things, and find that all the info I've picked up really great. The mods (and other posters) really seem to know their stuff.

I don't think the mods are too heavy handed or unfair. They've got a job to do - ie keep boards.ie out of trouble - and if that means closing threads or banning people for posting potentially troublesome material, then so be it. If the poster has a problem with it, then let them talk to the mods in the first place, though a pm, and if they aren't happy, then go to helpdesk.