How can we improve RAT in 2012

[John Conyard]

Paul did a good and rather brave thing in asking for feedback. I remember as a young manager asking staff for feedback and then spent an hour telling everybody how their concerns were not justified because they did not understand how the management had thought of everything and it was all OK if they only understood. Like most things RAT could do with improvement and a freshen up. Outside the current postings regarding the moderator/member argument and a couple of Indian companies RAT is generally very quiet.

I suspect this is because:

1) Most questions have been discussed in previous years, and often a quick search can yield some useful information.
2) The rise of other forums with fresh new approaches and members.
3) I understand Facebook generates a lot of conversation.
4) Conversations on RAT being held via the community side of the site by personal message.
5) And because of arguments and personal attacks on the main forum.

One of my biggest problems is with nutters who join RAT to post up some negative comment about the group I am in, the saddles we use etc etc and then are never heard of again. People who are in no group, organise no events, or don’t ride, or who don’t make equipment and don’t actually do anything. There is little point in posting something positive if somebody with a false name or ID is all too willing to attack it.

I have read recently on RAT that some perceive the moderators as a clique talking privately behind the scenes, and this is not a positive image. A group of friendly helpful hard working volunteers who have helped me and others out is a far better message to get across. When a moderator posts a little too quickly and hastily it is to their credit when they back off after “moderation” from the members. On the whole the moderators do a good job.

Having posed these issues I fear I have no answers. I suspect forums rely on their membership and the vast majority of RATers are polite, positive and understand how to hold a conversation. I fear a small minority get superior and offensive when they perceive their position is being threatened. Some just want the last word, and occasionally somebody joins just to cause a problem.

I suspect I advocate peace love and understanding for 2012. I’ll be crucified by Easter!