While always being open to changes that bring improvement is a good thing, often changes that, on the surface, look good - and are well intentioned - have detrimental side effects.
Remember - these forums would not be so popular if they were so bad - just as they are now.
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ComputerHope could be more efficient if the forum was handled in a more strict manner through software, not just rules. As people don't pay attention to the rules anyway. A filtering system
Much of what you are discussing is summed up with that - a filtering system.
That's what you are trying to accomplish - filter out some things.
It is a commendable idea - but I question if it can be implented
withoutundesireable side effects. If nothing else, creating a stricter, more rigid atmosphere. That would keep some people away.
Too many rules and restictions is not a good thing.
Personally, I like the tone of "Hey.... it's a friendly place... don't be afraid to just ask"
It is difficult to fit everything into a rule or filter when you try to write it down. But beyond any doubt, the absolute best filter in the world is - right between your ears.
Your, my, ... everybodies' ability to think about individual conditions and either proceed or blow on by - is far better than any filtering system that can ever be set up.
—ike having to fill out your hardware when you register an account—revents people who have the attention span of a goldfish
In my opinion, while you may be right, comments like this are not good for CH.
Think about it. That post can be searched up and read for a very long time.
The person reading it could be a total, complete, honest-to-goodness, computer know-nothing. It's not their fault.
But that person would not be as likely to join in with a request for help, after having read that.... it gives a negative feel.
to come and annoy the h**l out of everyone.
Now seriously....
... just like my words here now.... whatever anybody says here is just some electrons lighting some pixels on your screen.
How can it annoy you? .... when all you have to do is ignore it?
Don't think I don't understand. I do. Because I catch myself getting annoyed at times! And have to remind myself.
... we shouldn't answer people who are A) Incoherent B) Wasting our time
How can anyone here waste your time? Just ignore 'em and move on.
It is your choice.
C) Just plain ignorant.
You shouldn't call anyone ignorant on a help forum like this that claims to be willing to help "newbies".
Again, it gives a bad impression.
Besides, that is just your opinion.
You aren't special, in that you get to decide who is ignorant, and who isn't.
Free help doesn't mean we have to put up with some of the things people would want us to put up with here.
"put up with" ?? You don't have to put up with anything here.
Just don't. It is your choice. Ignore whomever you want to ignore.
I have a suggestion, regarding the repetition that you mentioned. I've considered this myself, but just haven't gotten around to doing it.
Find posts that contain the answer - to whatever it is at the moment that is on your mind as being continually repeated.
Save the url to a text file.
Slowly build yourself a little library of 'canned' answers.
When you see that same ol' question coming up again - don't frustrate yourself with typing that which you know you've typed several times before.
Copy-n-paste the url, with a "Read this".
Done.
I come close sometimes. I use the extensive information that can be found right here on CH. In a heartbeat, I'll direct someone to one of those pages.
In conclusion:
I think an atmosphere/tone of welcoming with open arms the people that know nothing about their computers is a good thing.
I think anything that is a move away from that should be scrutinized very, very carefully before moving in that direction.
I think that anyone that realizes that they are finding some posts frustrating, should learn to simply blow on by such posts.
This includes posts from the legitimate, honest person that doesn't know any better. If you don't feel like holding their hand and leading them, then don't. No one is obligated.
This also includes posts from people who should know better. If someone like this is continuing to not understand - or worse, just not trying - to get with the protocol.... then just blow on by their posts too. No need to beat your head on a wall.
