Omega Owners Forum

Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: kris9128 on 20 November 2008, 23:08:37

Title: OOF FORUM
Post by: kris9128 on 20 November 2008, 23:08:37
 being a member of many forums i can honestly say that this is the most clique. it appears that unless you are well known then most nof your threads will be ignored. it regularly apprears that a lesser known member will post somthing and get get next to no replies but a better known memeber  will post something similar and will get plenty of repiles  
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:10:58
Dont agree at all.

Depends on the topic of the post.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: jjleonard on 20 November 2008, 23:13:48
Don't agree either. I'm a newbie, posted a few times, got plenty of replies. If you add posts to a popular thread, then your post will get read along with all the others!  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 20 November 2008, 23:15:19
I find it the least cliguey of the forums I visit.Although some people who are personal friends or meet up often will talk more to each other than to people they havent met. :-/
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:20:20
Of your last 25 posts you have started 2 of them, so in starting this post complaining in a way that you dont get many replies then I woukd tend to agree with you.

You have to start them to get people to join in.  ;D ;D :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Ken T on 20 November 2008, 23:39:59
I think it depends what you say in your reply.

I have noticed that when I reply to some posts, that tends to kill the topic stone dead.  :'( :'( What's wrong, did I forget to floss ?  :'(

Och what the hell, you reply what you think, if it upsets then you went too far, so chill next time.  :y

Ken
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 20 November 2008, 23:43:50
I'm not going to bother posting here; who does he think he is? ;D coming in here and interrupting us...blimmin' gatecrashers.

































Seriously though, I would have to say that in my many years of forums, this is by far and away THE least cliquey place I have ever come across.

Practically all members were new at some point. I have only been a member since I got my Omega in march.

Maybe it's me or something?  :-[
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Martin_1962 on 20 November 2008, 23:45:10
Definately not cliquy
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Darth Loo-knee on 20 November 2008, 23:46:22
I think you have it wrong mate, a great set of lads on here  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:48:18
Quote
I'm not going to bother posting here; who does he think he is? ;D coming in here and interrupting us...blimmin' gatecrashers.

































Seriously though, I would have to say that in my many years of forums, this is by far and away THE least cliquey place I have ever come across.

Practically all members were new at some point. I have only been a member since I got my Omega in march.

Maybe it's me or something?  :-[

Was just thinking the same, I have only been here since arround March/April time and it took me ages to make my 1st post, now there is  talk of getting a petition up to have me banned coz I talk tooooo much.   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:49:10
Quote
I think you have it wrong mate, a great set of lads on here  :y
and lasses  :y :y :y :y and of course Loo-knee himself.  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 20 November 2008, 23:49:21
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:50:53
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

is that coz your an essex boy.  ;D ;D ;D ;D :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Darth Loo-knee on 20 November 2008, 23:51:04
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

Yeah Albs, you ain't a nice fella at all are ya  :-* :P ;D :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: BigAl on 20 November 2008, 23:51:34
Must disagree.

I have had replies to all my queries, no matter how simple, even joke posts in general chat have had a response.

For example as a  junior member, I recently posted a technical query regarding variable wiper stalk and received helpful replies as well as other OOF's wanting the same info
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: markey mark on 20 November 2008, 23:52:59
Quote
being a member of many forums i can honestly say that this is the most clique. it appears that unless you are well known then most nof your threads will be ignored. it regularly apprears that a lesser known member will post somthing and get get next to no replies but a better known memeber  will post something similar and will get plenty of repiles  

try vxon bud !! dont think you come on enough to say things like that ! yes some of us have personal friends thats what meets are for !!!  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Darth Loo-knee on 20 November 2008, 23:53:00
Quote
Quote
I think you have it wrong mate, a great set of lads on here  :y
and lasses  :y :y :y :y and of course Loo-knee himself.  ;D ;D ;D ;D

Just cause you have posted some extremely nice pictures at long last, doesn't mean you can start getting bitchy :P ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:54:51
I have very rarely seen a thread that has not had a single reply, and also very rare for a thread not to get a reply within the hour.

In fact technical thread questions I have have sometimes seem 5 replies to a question in as many minutes.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 20 November 2008, 23:55:46
Quote
Quote
Quote
I think you have it wrong mate, a great set of lads on here  :y
and lasses  :y :y :y :y and of course Loo-knee himself.  ;D ;D ;D ;D

Just cause you have posted some extremely nice pictures at long last, doesn't mean you can start getting bitchy :P ;D

Bitchy Is When I stop Posting Them.  ::) ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 20 November 2008, 23:59:44
Go, have your say. Make a vote.

See you've even generated a poll :P
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 21 November 2008, 00:04:08

I've been around here since the early days and achieved nearly 10,000 posts. If I didn't value the site then I wouldn't have come this far.

So - yes, there are lots of good things about this forum. The amount of combined knowledge we provide is possibly unbeatable, so for the purpose of maintaining cars, the forum does it's job in an absolutely sterling way.

Also on the positive side, I have met a number of really firm friends here, which in itself has made joining up worthwhile.

So - on the balance of things, the good definately outweighs the bad, here.

On the flipside... I have seen it said a few times, by different people, that this forum is cliquey - including one member who quickly removed their account shortly after joining for this reason - so I think it's worth at least remaining mindful that some people hold this view, and take some personal responsibility to try our best to ensure we don't come across in this way.

I am learning the (somewhat difficult) lesson that it's not always possible to please everyone, and sometimes people will have different views than you. In these situations, it's important not to take it too personally.

On every forum, without exception, there will be people who are very quick to pick out flaws in things you say, and potentially flame you or antagonise you with it - in which case it's usually best just to let them get on with it and not give them the desired reactions.

I've been on a few forums, not all car related - and I've seen a LOT more trolls on them all, compared to OOF!

I think bottom line is, although this site is a great resource and a great community, things said ARE only on a website, usually by people you don't see very often, so aren't worth worrying about too much  :y





Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 21 November 2008, 00:08:26
Quote
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

is that coz your an essex boy.  ;D ;D ;D ;D :y
How very dare you, Belfast born and bred. :y ;D....came to stay with my sister in Essex in 79, got "tangled" coz I was too young to know any better,been stuck here ever since. :'( :'( :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: amigov6 on 21 November 2008, 00:08:52
Sorry you feel like that Kris. We were all newbies once & it is a busy forum but it's entertaining given the variety of good & bad topics. Try a meeting or two next year. My first was Lakes 07. The admins just drink, eat, fix, laugh, & chat the same as anyone else.
    Whilst i'm an utter gobsh&te i don't answer every post i read but your user name is becoming familiar now to me & i'm sure others.
   Some of us have become personal friends but the gates are open to others mate. :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 21 November 2008, 00:09:42
Quote
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

Yeah Albs, you ain't a nice fella at all are ya  :-* :P ;D :D
you love me really Daz. :-* :P :D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 21 November 2008, 00:10:16
Quote
Sorry you feel like that Kris. We were all newbies once & it is a busy forum but it's entertaining given the variety of good & bad topics. Try a meeting or two next year. My first was Lakes 07. The admins just drink, eat, fix, laugh, & chat the same as anyone else.
    Whilst i'm an utter gobsh&te i don't answer every post i read but your user name is becoming familiar now to me & i'm sure others.
   Some of us have become personal friends but the gates are open to others mate. :y

Seconded :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JueV6 on 21 November 2008, 00:10:57
ooooh 2 pages, think this'll help with the amout of replies.

skruntie put some of your page 3 pics up, that'll get more response ;D ;D

sorry kris, if you don't like the people on here then as has been said, go try vx0n.

they are All for 1 and 1 for 1 :y

been there and seen it.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: jim351 on 21 November 2008, 00:17:13
well im quite new and i like it here...been made to feel welcome and have learnt alot reading through all the posts.....i go on some other sites and there is one which i wont name, its so clicky if u havent got the rite sort of car they REALLY wont reply!
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 21 November 2008, 00:18:31
Quote
being a member of many forums i can honestly say that this is the most clique. it appears that unless you are well known then most nof your threads will be ignored. it regularly apprears that a lesser known member will post somthing and get get next to no replies but a better known memeber  will post something similar and will get plenty of repiles  

I'am surprised that you think this way Kris......you have over 1000 posts and are pretty well known on this forum.
Overall this is a good friendly forum where most people get on well with each other.......best not to take things to personally.
I have responded to your posts as have others....just have fun. :y :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Darth Loo-knee on 21 November 2008, 00:18:38
Quote
Quote
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

Yeah Albs, you ain't a nice fella at all are ya  :-* :P ;D :D
you love me really Daz. :-* :P :D ;D

Yes I do mate you know that  :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 21 November 2008, 00:20:00
Kris,

I hope that the general response that you have received to this thread has helped to reassure you. You are a member, who likes omegas and are therefore just as valid, valuable and welcome as the rest of us mate.

No-one on here, with the exception of the admins, is any more valid than anyone else. IMO you're no different to anyone else on here. To be honest I don't even notice who posts what I tend to focus on the content of each post rather than the person or name who posted it.

Please don't drop out on your opinion yet, I'm sure that you'll find it a nice warm place to be and it is a shame you feel strongly enough about it to make the point of posting.

Within 3 weeks of my joining I started a random thread about an idea for an OOF member map which took off so much it now stands at 23 pages and 337 posts. It even eventually got a button added to the pages in the OOF.

Personally speaking I don't think you can be much more "welcomed to the fold" than that.

Give it a chance. :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Field Marshal Dr. Opti on 21 November 2008, 00:26:43
This is actually the only forum I use.

This is because I really have a life away from OOf..........unlike some of the sad bastards who live on here.....You know who you are ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :D :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 21 November 2008, 00:27:59
Dont take anything too personal kris (as James said),I must admit I found it hard going on here for quite a while when I joined. In fact tbh I suspected that I had made some enemies without realising,as I was very new to all this forum milarkey.I am much more relaxed about the whole thing now and have become quite friendly with a couple of people (apart from loo knee obviously :D).
I think Markey Mark may have hit the nail on the head when he mentioned going to meets. I havent been to any yet,but I think its only natural that the people who have, tend to respond in a more friendly manner to those people who they have spent a weekond on the p1$$ with. sorry should have said discussing Omega trim options. ;D
Iirc you started an F1 thread during the last race of the season and I suggested you should put "spoiler" in the title, you duly obliged and I think it was done in a completely friendly way,but if it came across any differently then let me know and I will apologise. :y
Keep posting mate, it gets addictive after a while,and in my experience you look back and realise in amazement how much you have learned about Omegas and many other things besides. :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 21 November 2008, 00:31:01
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
I joined a worldwide bike forum a year or so ago. It seemed to be run by and for the benifit of about 10 people.If you tried to get involved or join in they got pretty snotty and sarcastic.
could have been the fact that I am extremely dislikeable,not sure really,dont care either. :D ::)

Yeah Albs, you ain't a nice fella at all are ya  :-* :P ;D :D
you love me really Daz. :-* :P :D ;D

Yes I do mate you know that  :-* :-* :-* :-*
steady Daz, you know I was never confused.  :D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Nickbat on 21 November 2008, 00:32:42
Quote
I have very rarely seen a thread that has not had a single reply, and also very rare for a thread not to get a reply within the hour.

In fact technical thread questions I have have sometimes seem 5 replies to a question in as many minutes.


Hmmm, I've posted a few.  :'( :'(  ;) ;D



Seriously, the reply-rate of a new thread depends on:

1) The degree of active interest. That does not necessarily mean people are not interested, it's just that they may not have anything to add. Sometimes the number of "reads" is a better indication of a thread's popularity than the number of replies.

2)  The time of day you start the thread. If you post at certain times, like just before the evening rush, your thread can be pushed down the board by others. Once your thread falls off page 1, it's normally Goodnight Vienna. Mind you, you can always bump it up again.  ;)

The other thing one must remember is that posts by a regular attract all sorts of gratuitous p* taking, simply because we know that the poster is "game for a laugh" and essentially has the skin of a rhinoceros, no matter what you suggest (e.g. Tunnie).  ;) ;D ;D  
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 21 November 2008, 00:43:34
and this is reply 34 and still counting.   :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 21 November 2008, 00:57:32
Quote
ooooh 2 pages, think this'll help with the amout of replies.

skruntie put some of your page 3 pics up, that'll get more response ;D ;D

sorry kris, if you don't like the people on here then as has been said, go try vx0n.

they are All for 1 and 1 for 1 :y

been there and seen it.


Free for all before the flesh sensors kick in.

:-/ :-/ Link Deleted as I only intended it to be displayed for a short while.   :-/ :-/   :-X  ::) ::)


Looks wise I think she beats CZJ, HB and Lucy Pinder hands down ::) ::) :-X
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 21 November 2008, 01:04:30
Maybe it's just me, but I've never been too keen on the different tan colours on the tits - where she's sunbathed in her bikini.

She should sunbathe topless instead :)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 21 November 2008, 01:09:35
Quote
Maybe it's just me, but I've never been too keen on the different tan colours on the tits - where she's sunbathed in her bikini.

She should sunbathe topless instead :)

You shouldnt be looking at those, yer far too young.   ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: albitz on 21 November 2008, 01:18:24
Quote
Maybe it's just me, but I've never been too keen on the different tan colours on the tits - where she's sunbathed in her bikini.

She should sunbathe topless instead :)
Been telling Claudia Schiffer that for years,but will she listen....... :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Debs. on 21 November 2008, 07:45:43
I disagree with the 'cliquey' postulation!........
I was made to feel very-welcome right from my first post; but I do think that often, a forum survives because of the regular/frequent welcome-contributions of stalwarts (both admin and 'lay') whom keep the feeling of freshness and movement....sometimes perhaps, that may be (mistakenly) seen as being cliquey.
I`m a member of a couple of other forums and have never felt as welcome as I have been made to feel here at OOF. :y

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Jimbob on 21 November 2008, 07:52:14
I dont think this place is cliquey at all.
There is however, an in-crowd.  This is envitable, some of use have been here a long time, and have history before that, and have met on several, some many occasions.

The in-crowd also make this place what it is....4466 members, probably 50 very regular contributors, and another few hundred occasional posters.  So there is obviously going to be a bit of a reportie between the regulars.
That said, it is by no means a closed group.

As for posts being ignored, I have been aware of one or 2, what I have noticed is if a 'newbie' posts a joke, that noone finds funny, it would tend to get ignored, rather than a load of get your coat type replies a regular would get, but that is surely being polite to someone you don't know?

Also at the meets, I have seen 'unknowns' being made very welcome, with only one exception to that rule of a member who was trying to attend with 2 parties and had a conflict of interest, and was upset the entire oof wouldnt join his other party.

I have also 1st hand seen what happens when a newbie is treated like a regular, with an innocent double entendre that was taken completely the wrong way, which could have easily been resolved, but quickly turned into a big deal.
other things that could make this place appear unwelcoming is the abrubt way newbies are told of their wrongdoing, I know some are obviously just trying it on to try and make a sale, but there are countless "Fill in your profile" requests, when a "If you put some details about yourself in your profile, it will really help us diagnose you problem, you may even find a local member offers to help" would be much friendlier.  This is the internet after all, we are all well aware of the warnings about not revealing personal info, so people may well be reluctant to comply to such a 'demand' from a bunch of strangersm, however good our intentions are.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: tmx on 21 November 2008, 08:08:26
some people on here who are new ask stupid questions which i freely admit i will NOT answer!!!!!

i only joined in jan 08 and i attended newent and i was made to feel very welcome by everyone i really enjoyed it and it made me feel that im not the only miggy nut!

the forum isnt atall clickey everyone helps everyone but as i say sometimes newbies ask silly questions etc
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 21 November 2008, 08:09:50
That's told me off then then Jimbob. :-/
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 21 November 2008, 08:13:31
The secret to getting replies is:

1) A good snappy title......newbie needs help gets a bit repetative!

2) A good description......missing out essentials like, the engine type, year etc again means that the first response may well be another question back.

I personaly aim to ensure that no thread goes un-answered or to far down a blind alley
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Jimbob on 21 November 2008, 08:17:52
Quote
That's told me off then then Jimbob. :-/

Not having a go at anyone mate, just listing things how I see em!

Think we can all be friendlier at times.

nearly listed you as a newbie who quickly made himself at home, proving join in and be welcome!

After I upset a newbie, I just try and think, how would I react if the roles were reversed, before I click the button.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: dbug on 21 November 2008, 08:31:32
Never found it cliquey.  Do find that there is a core of users who post regularly - would think that is normal for forums.  Anyone can of course post as often as they wish - look at TBs post count!
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: beemerdevil on 21 November 2008, 08:32:03
have to say......i dont find it cliquey.........great bunch of guys and gals...........sometimes i havent had replies or only one - depends on topic, people are busy or not, but on whe whole i find the forum BRILLIANT   :y :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: TheBoy on 21 November 2008, 08:58:26
It is a critism I have heard rather too often, so hear what you are saying.

In some respects, I would have to disagree - any query in Omega Help, and lets not forget that its that section that the entire site was set up for, gets answers within hours, even if its a Q back to OP for additional info.

Newbie's in chat section, I would have to accept the critism, and even accept some personally - sometimes its all too easy to misinterperate the written word, esp on light hearted subjects. I do tend to treat people I don't feel I know well slightly differently in the chat areas - if I feel they may take offence, I keep quiet.  I make the assumption that by the time I start to feel I know them, they know what I'm like as well, so then anything goes!  I guess that is cliquey.  Not sure there is an easy answer to that one, as I have upset too many new members before.


Somebody posted about making the titles more descriptive - that is key, particularly in help sections.  To be honest, I personally can only give a max of 2hrs per evening to OOF (and I'm guessing thats more than most people), and that has to be shared between being on the forum, and dealing with back end stuff.  Its not enough time to read every single post, so in the help sections, I'll look down the index, and only look at the ones I think I may be able to add something useful to.  I'm sure many others are the same.


Kris - I'm concerned you feel like this yourself, as you are a well known member here anyway  :-/
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Markie on 21 November 2008, 09:17:58
Got to say i feel that OP has got some of this on the button.

Think its inevitable though that any group of people will form alliances and friendships, but, too the outsider the forum, like any, can look cliquey.

For that reason i have voted in the poll in agreement.

However it doesnt mean there is an issue, uneasy vibe or anyone doing anything wrong.

When you join a ew club, job or move to a new house there are cliques that take time to get into. Its human nature.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: jjleonard on 21 November 2008, 09:23:06
I was thinking about this earlier. Does the fact that there is a post count next to the posters name matter?

Perhaps it's paranoia, but it would be easier to 'dismiss' a newbie poster because it's clear that they are new. If a post count wasn't displayed, then it would not be easy to work out who is new and who isn't.

Just my 2p. I personally, in my short time here, have found the forum very helpful and friendly.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 09:26:33
Quote
I was thinking about this earlier. Does the fact that there is a post count next to the posters name matter?

Perhaps it's paranoia, but it would be easier to 'dismiss' a newbie poster because it's clear that they are new. If a post count wasn't displayed, then it would not be easy to work out who is new and who isn't.

Just my 2p. I personally, in my short time here, have found the forum very helpful and friendly.

It doesn't matter to me whether a member has got 1 post or 10000 posts, I will reply if I feel I can take the piss contribute to the thread. But I will not contribute, because I feel it's expected of me, if I have nothing to add.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Tresvant on 21 November 2008, 09:42:20
As someone who does not post very often or has absolutly no knowledge about cars to be of any help to anyone i kind of get the point of the subject. Sometimes i feel that the general chat area is difficult to get into but i think thats more about me being wary of what i say rather than the other members on here
I have to say that when i have posted in the general help section i have always had a great response and even so far as to have members on here coming out to my house to help me out (one of them being Mark DTM).
This is a great forum with great people and i would be lost without it and over time i will no doubt feel more comfortable with posting.

 :)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: LJay on 21 November 2008, 09:49:43
Where as i don't fully agree with Kris' comments i do think that OOf can appear cliquey!
I don't believe that its an intentional thing, just a result of comfort levels between members.
Well known issues aside, I felt that i really had to fight for my identity on here, not sure if its a personality, gender, newbie thing. So i can see how he feels.
I have walked away a few times, vowing not to come, back but given a chance its strangely addictive.

Kris' is there something or someone specifically thats made you feel like this, maybe it can be addressed.
Don't give up on OOF, our hearts are in the right place really! :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: bob.dent on 21 November 2008, 09:50:25
Like any forum or chatroom on the Internet, in most cases you're talking to people that are just a name on a computer screen, however, you do get to know these people over a period of time and some you tend to hit it off with more than others for reasons such as being like minded or the same sense of humour. Additionally, many of us on here have met up at various Meets and become firm friends, as indeed I have on a several occassions. For these reasons I can understand that there may appear to be a bit of clickyness between some members, but in reality it is because they are good friends.

However, I don't think newer members get ignored intentionally. More often than not, the number of replies you get to a thread will depend if it's of interest to you personally. For instance, I tend to ignore threads on computer problems because I know sod all about them, but you get my drift.

I hope this kind of explains things a bit Kris and that you continue to join in with us. Don't forget, we were all new here at some point. :y

BTW you've not done too bad with this thread - now on 4 pages!! ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Kevin Wood on 21 November 2008, 09:52:21
I've never felt this place cliquey, however, cliques, by definition, are only visible from the outside. The fact that someone has made this comment should give us all food for thought.

I guess there's some banter between members who know each other well that might be intimidating when observed by newcomers, but I'm sure they would not be the target of it until they are equally well established. However, because they don't know the background the perception might be that they are likely to be on the receiving end of something they find offensive.

Not sure if there's a solution to it however, I will say that this is one of the most friendly internet forums I have ever participated in. :)

Kevin
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: gwa on 21 November 2008, 09:53:19
The question could not be further from the truth. As a newbie, with the help of forum members I have managed to take a 'bag-of-bolts' to a good running motor. I would say that maybe you have not expressed yourself correctly in your postings, thus minimal responses.

Strange really, I'm just creating a 'Lessons Learned' report for one of my projects and will definitely use this topic as an example. Cheers  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 10:41:40
Nope..not cliquey..

I think I'm a real proof to that..And obviously I never physically meet

somebody from the forum..But its been more than 2 years I'm here..

And talking too much ;D


At the beginning , people dont know who you are , dont know what

you like..You need to talk with them by posting to  their threads..

So in time they learn some details about you and your reactions..

All comes after..


And I must note that its normal for the forum people to chat with the

known friends more than the others..Same is true also for my country

forums..if somebodys close to you , you can joke even make debate

to have good time..(and sometimes goes a little deeper  ::) ) But

you cant do that for somebody stranger..

Stay..you will see in time.. :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: The Barge Captain on 21 November 2008, 11:03:31
I agree to a point that it is slightly cliquey, but then although a regular browser and poster myself, there are members who are far more prolific and probably read far more posts so they have a higher awareness of what's going on which keeps banter high between them.  If you are here all the time then you know everything, otherwise it can be hard to keep up.  It doesn't mean you are unwelcome.

Interesting that Kris hasn't responded to anything that's been said though.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: TheBoy on 21 November 2008, 12:37:03
Now Kris has replied on another thread, I was going to close the poll.  But I won't, as I think it still serves a useful purpose.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Lazydocker on 21 November 2008, 13:44:12
Missed this discussion last night but still want to have my say, although I have seen Kris' other post.

I have found this site, and (more to the point) the people here a great help. Yes, there are people who know each other well and therefore take the piss more than an "outsider" (and I use the term loosely) would find fair, but that happens everywhere, even in the local pub!

I have only been a member since April (I think) but have gained some very good advise and people I would call friends. I enjoy the banter, and I think most people will have realised that I like a good wind up as much as the next person (those who met me in Thetford will vouch for that! ::) ::)) but I am still aware that I may upset someone with my comments... If that happens ten I apologise!

This is by far the best, most useful and least cliquey forum I have ever been a member of and I have posted far more here than I have on another forum I joined 3 years ago.

Keep up the good work boys and girls :y :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 14:10:42
Quote
Nope..not cliquey..

I think I'm a real proof to that..And obviously I never physically meet

somebody from the forum..But its been more than 2 years I'm here..

And talking too much ;D


At the beginning , people dont know who you are , dont know what

you like..You need to talk with them by posting to  their threads..

So in time they learn some details about you and your reactions..

All comes after..


And I must note that its normal for the forum people to chat with the

known friends more than the others..Same is true also for my country

forums..if somebodys close to you , you can joke even make debate

to have good time..(and sometimes goes a little deeper  ::) ) But

you cant do that for somebody stranger..

Stay..you will see in time.. :y

OOF's philosopher ;D

BTW Cem, I see interest rates have been lowered in Turkey. From 16.75% to 16.25% :o
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Danny on 21 November 2008, 14:14:42
further to Kris's other thread from this morning, i feel the poll on this thread is not needed
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 14:19:21
Quote
Quote
Nope..not cliquey..

I think I'm a real proof to that..And obviously I never physically meet

somebody from the forum..But its been more than 2 years I'm here..

And talking too much ;D


At the beginning , people dont know who you are , dont know what

you like..You need to talk with them by posting to  their threads..

So in time they learn some details about you and your reactions..

All comes after..


And I must note that its normal for the forum people to chat with the

known friends more than the others..Same is true also for my country

forums..if somebodys close to you , you can joke even make debate

to have good time..(and sometimes goes a little deeper  ::) ) But

you cant do that for somebody stranger..

Stay..you will see in time.. :y

OOF's philosopher ;D

BTW Cem, I see interest rates have been lowered in Turkey. From 16.75% to 16.25% :o

Thanks STMO :y

ps : federal reserve bank managers have become nuts ;D

they are experiencing how can we go bankrupt ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Peter H on 21 November 2008, 15:53:55
I haven't been here long, this should kill the thread stone dead! ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Debs. on 21 November 2008, 15:57:34
 ;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Peter H on 21 November 2008, 15:58:47
Quote
;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Surely THEY are the clique! ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Lizzie_Zoom on 21 November 2008, 16:04:52
Quote
further to Kris's other thread from this morning, i feel the poll on this thread is not needed


Maybe not, but it does make very interesting reading! :D ;)

It is always good and healthy for any organization or society to receive feedback, good or bad, from time to time. :y :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Danny on 21 November 2008, 16:29:26
I know but i dont agree that people are still able to say its unfair what he said when he's now apologised and retracted his outburst
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Richie London on 21 November 2008, 17:35:45
well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 17:37:12
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being a member of many forums i can honestly say that this is the most clique. it appears that unless you are well known then most nof your threads will be ignored. it regularly apprears that a lesser known member will post somthing and get get next to no replies but a better known memeber  will post something similar and will get plenty of repiles  

Dont agree, as i say, there is an off button that can be used, i find this one of the best forums i have been on, albeit of late i rearly come on but when i do there is always someone to help and have a banter with,  
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 17:38:12
Quote
well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Lazydocker on 21 November 2008, 17:38:41
Quote
I know but i dont agree that people are still able to say its unfair what he said when he's now apologised and retracted his outburst

It's not meant at Kris when people comment... This has now become a good medium for feedback to all of us :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 17:40:44
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I think you have it wrong mate, a great set of lads on here  :y

Apart from you ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Derek_in_Penzance on 21 November 2008, 17:55:00
I don't think this forum is at all cliquey. I'm a newbie since June, and I've had fairly quick and willing help when I've posted problems, so I'm very grateful.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Dusty on 21 November 2008, 18:08:18
As one of a small number of women on this forum ,I feel that i have been well treated overall.

Their is a number of OOFers who sometimes tend to "play amongst themselves"..but in my opinion this is usually because they have met and know each other on a more personal level.

I do not believe that they want to form their own "little gang"..but I think that it can come across that way especially to newbies.

With regard to Kris....I feel that on occasion that you can get a little upset on some of the threads.....one of the coments made on a Formula One thread springs to mind when TB stated his views on the matter(his opinion.)

In summary just best to enjoy the forum and not take it too seriously.

It's really not life or death. :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 18:39:19
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Quote
well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 18:41:17
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Quote
Quote
well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: HolyCount on 21 November 2008, 18:42:30
Well ..... I am relatively new, but found the place to be very friendly and helpful. Yes, as has already been said, there are a core of members who have known each other since they built the Ark, but that situation happens everywhere.

Yes, I have had threads unanswered, possibly due to a general slow down in forum activity, my uninspiring post content or lack of personal hygiene ... but what the hell  ::)

All in all this has got to be one of the friendliest forums I have been on and the lengths some members go to in order to help even us newbies has to be seen to be believed.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 18:42:44
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Quote
Quote
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 18:45:55
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Quote
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 18:47:07
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Quote
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D

AARRGGHH. NOT THE MINCE PIES!! PLEASE!!!

You'll start them all off and we'll be talking food for days. :(
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 18:49:01
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D

AARRGGHH. NOT THE MINCE PIES!! PLEASE!!!

You'll start them all off and we'll be talking food for days. :(

Love em, mrs miggy got me a few boxes the other day, christ it dont seem long since we were on about this last year, how time goes by.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Bandit127 on 21 November 2008, 18:51:50
Quote
;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
8 now. I am one.

This place can feel clquey for a noob, precisely because there is a core of people who came from a previous forum and outside them another layer of people who have met up (Lakes, Newent etc).

But the analogy of a local pub is a good one. If you want to sit up at the bar with the locals, you need to make an effort. It won't happen by looking on thinking "bloody hell it's cliquey".

With any bunch of people, there will always be in-jokes etc that doesn't help. But that's natural and shouldn't be changed.

Lastly, writing style.
I am an engineer and a lot of my communication is written. As a result, my style can cause something perfectly balanced and reasonable in my mind to be typed and posted - only to come accross as curt and sometimes aggressive. The reaction to it comes as a shock in those cases and back pedalling results.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 18:55:06
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Quote
;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
8 now. I am one.

This place can feel clquey for a noob, precisely because there is a core of people who came from a previous forum and outside them another layer of people who have met up (Lakes, Newent etc).

But the analogy of a local pub is a good one. If you want to sit up at the bar with the locals, you need to make an effort. It won't happen by looking on thinking "bloody hell it's cliquey".

With any bunch of people, there will always be in-jokes etc that doesn't help. But that's natural and shouldn't be changed.

Lastly, writing style.
I am an engineer and a lot of my communication is written. As a result, my style can cause something perfectly balanced and reasonable in my mind to be typed and posted - only to come accross as curt and sometimes aggressive. The reaction to it comes as a shock in those cases and back pedalling results.

That sounded a bit curt to me >:(

And aggressive :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: HolyCount on 21 November 2008, 18:58:52
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Quote
;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
8 now. I am one.

This place can feel clquey for a noob, precisely because there is a core of people who came from a previous forum and outside them another layer of people who have met up (Lakes, Newent etc).

But the analogy of a local pub is a good one. If you want to sit up at the bar with the locals, you need to make an effort. It won't happen by looking on thinking "bloody hell it's cliquey".

With any bunch of people, there will always be in-jokes etc that doesn't help. But that's natural and shouldn't be changed.

Lastly, writing style.
I am an engineer and a lot of my communication is written. As a result, my style can cause something perfectly balanced and reasonable in my mind to be typed and posted - only to come accross as curt and sometimes aggressive. The reaction to it comes as a shock in those cases and back pedalling results.

I spend half my life back pedalling,  but usually because I put my mouth into gear before engaging my brain  ::)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 19:02:11
BTW Bandit, if you want your posts to sound more understanding while at the same time putting your point across, read some of my replies.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Bandit127 on 21 November 2008, 19:06:30
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Quote
Quote
;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
8 now. I am one.

This place can feel clquey for a noob, precisely because there is a core of people who came from a previous forum and outside them another layer of people who have met up (Lakes, Newent etc).

But the analogy of a local pub is a good one. If you want to sit up at the bar with the locals, you need to make an effort. It won't happen by looking on thinking "bloody hell it's cliquey".

With any bunch of people, there will always be in-jokes etc that doesn't help. But that's natural and shouldn't be changed.

Lastly, writing style.
I am an engineer and a lot of my communication is written. As a result, my style can cause something perfectly balanced and reasonable in my mind to be typed and posted - only to come accross as curt and sometimes aggressive. The reaction to it comes as a shock in those cases and back pedalling results.

That sounded a bit curt to me >:(

And aggressive :D
We all do it. And we all wake up the next morning thinking "break, I wish I hadn't said that".

Except probably you STMO...  ;D ;D ;D

And Debs, who never posts a mis-considered word  ::) In fact some of her words are considerably well considered...  ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Auto Addict on 21 November 2008, 19:08:13
The last thing we want is people to think that this is cliquey.

In the General Help section, most of the problems are seen through to a satisfactory conclusion, in my experience.

The General Chat, well some members do a lot of posting, rib tickling etc. others take a little time to get known.

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Tony H on 21 November 2008, 19:27:16
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.
As for clicky naaa
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: miggy on 21 November 2008, 19:35:12
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.
As for clicky naaa

Send some this way...money waiting :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: HolyCount on 21 November 2008, 19:36:29
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.As for clicky naaa

I always get conned into producing 1000's of Welsh Cakes -- I inherited Gran's old bakestone, so it always seems to be my job !!!  I even have to send them to France !
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Bandit127 on 21 November 2008, 19:42:02
Quote
The last thing we want is people to think that this is cliquey.

In the General Help section, most of the problems are seen through to a satisfactory conclusion, in my experience.

The General Chat, well some members do a lot of posting, rib tickling etc. others take a little time to get known.

It does feel cliquey to a newcomer. It's part of the definition of 'noob' I think.

General Help works great, the best I have used. Part of the reason for this is the genuine experts who will help anyone. And the huge will to help anyone out among the rest of us.

General Chat can be hard to get in to. It took me months.. Nevertheless, I wouldn't change it - it's part of human nature and social groups and it adds to the community spirit. It is a community - not just a dusty forum

Much more important than clique is bullying IMO. And there is none...

I have said it before and I will say it again. You guys do a great job of moderating this forum.

As far as I am concerned there should be no 'naval gazing' over this thread among the admins.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: MikeDundee on 21 November 2008, 19:47:04
Have to agree to disagree, I post up threads now and again and sometimes hardly get any replies, but that for me ain't a problem, some folks in my view reply or post their opinion as they see fit or not as the case may be, but then that's just my personal viewpoint :y

Whilst I read most threads and do not always post a reply, but at te end of the day this particular topic has had quite a few replies, none of which I have read, so there you go ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Tony H on 21 November 2008, 19:52:50
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.
As for clicky naaa

Send some this way...money waiting :y
I baked a stack for the Newent cam belt party earlier this year thinking you might turn up but you didn't  :-/ so we had to eat them all ourselves :)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Jimbob on 21 November 2008, 19:55:55
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.
As for clicky naaa

Send some this way...money waiting :y
I baked a stack for the Newent cam belt party earlier this year thinking you might turn up but you didn't  :-/ so we had to eat them all ourselves :)


I ate some of the telford ones ;)  but must have missed the newent ones...maybe they were too soggy  ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 21 November 2008, 20:04:32
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well i like it on here, wouldnt come on if i dont. its not hard to suss out peoples personalities from behind a screen, and i havent come across anyone i dislike yet.  they say you never stop learning  and to be honest i do learn something new everyday on here. hopefully one day i'll come to a meet and sit in the corner all weekend on my own being ignored  ;D ;D ;D

Only Steve (STMO123)   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

But I still love you Pete :-*

£1500 for your mig

Yeh ok, i will even deliver it for that..... ;D ;D ;D ;D

!2 months tax, 12 months MOT, a go of your wife....and daughter(s) and it's a deal. ;D ;D ;D

Git, throw in a box of mince pies and i may think about it.. ;D ;D ;D
Don't mention mince pies I bake them and Christmas is coming and I'm not looking forward to making about 5,000 of the bl@@dy things by hand :o.
As for clicky naaa

Send some this way...money waiting :y
I baked a stack for the Newent cam belt party earlier this year thinking you might turn up but you didn't  :-/ so we had to eat them all ourselves :)


I ate some of the telford ones ;)  but must have missed the newent ones...maybe they were too soggy  ;D


Just a random quote to interrupt, and contribute to, this very cliquey optical illusion.  ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 21 November 2008, 20:06:42
No more quoting, it's nearly a page per post. :o
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: MikeDundee on 21 November 2008, 20:13:08
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No more quoting, it's nearly a page per post. :o

Well your not helping matters are you :y.................anyway been shopping lately ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: TheBoy on 21 November 2008, 20:49:47
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;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Oppps, one of those is mine ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 21:29:41
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;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
8 now. I am one.

This place can feel clquey for a noob, precisely because there is a core of people who came from a previous forum and outside them another layer of people who have met up (Lakes, Newent etc).

But the analogy of a local pub is a good one. If you want to sit up at the bar with the locals, you need to make an effort. It won't happen by looking on thinking "bloody hell it's cliquey".

With any bunch of people, there will always be in-jokes etc that doesn't help. But that's natural and shouldn't be changed.

Lastly, writing style.
I am an engineer and a lot of my communication is written. As a result, my style can cause something perfectly balanced and reasonable in my mind to be typed and posted - only to come accross as curt and sometimes aggressive. The reaction to it comes as a shock in those cases and back pedalling results.

I spend half my life back pedalling,  but usually because I put my mouth into gear before engaging my brain  ::)

thats what we humans do always, mostly ;D

by the way I like it how you say.. :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Andy B on 21 November 2008, 21:32:55
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......
by the way I like it how you say.. :y :y

We'll get you completely fluent in English too. I notice that you're even able to swear quite well in English now. ;)  ;D ;D  :y  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 21:36:06
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......
by the way I like it how you say.. :y :y

We'll get you completely fluent in English too. I notice that you're even able to swear quite well in English now. ;)  ;D ;D  :y  :y

 ;D :-[ :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Chopsdad on 21 November 2008, 21:49:20
You're right it is cliquey  - 1 big clique full of old men with Vauxhall Omegas with nothing better to do.   :P









But that's why I'm still here  :y :)

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Chopsdad on 21 November 2008, 21:50:46
And you've had 103 replies Kris  - so you're well and truly "in"  ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Vamps on 21 November 2008, 21:51:57
Well, there certainly a range of views, but with a common theme, oof is not cliquey, but I can understand the ‘little gang analogy’ to a newbie.

I joined the forum, like many other because I had a problem with my Mig. As a newbie I watched from the sidelines for several weeks, because everyone  seemed to know each other so well,  :-[ :-[ but sitting on the side was not going to change anything, so I bit the bullet and joint in. Guess what? No one bit me, perhaps apart from a certain Astra Driver, but then that does not count.  :D
Very quickly I found myself a regular contributor. Don’t give up, give it a go. :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 21:55:56
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You're right it is cliquey  - 1 big clique full of old men with Vauxhall Omegas with nothing better to do.   :P



But that's why I'm still here  :y :)


 ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Chopsdad on 21 November 2008, 22:01:06
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You're right it is cliquey  - 1 big clique full of old men with Vauxhall Omegas with nothing better to do.   :P



But that's why I'm still here  :y :)


 ;D ;D

Not forgetting our non resident friends too  :-*
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 21 November 2008, 22:02:50
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You're right it is cliquey  - 1 big clique full of old men with Vauxhall Omegas with nothing better to do.   :P



But that's why I'm still here  :y :)

;D ;D

Not forgetting our non resident friends too  :-*

dont worry he is no different , old and have nothing better to do ;D ;D :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: craig on 21 November 2008, 22:15:02
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I dont think this place is cliquey at all.
There is however, an in-crowd.  This is envitable, some of use have been here a long time, and have history before that, and have met on several, some many occasions.

The in-crowd also make this place what it is....4466 members, probably 50 very regular contributors, and another few hundred occasional posters.  So there is obviously going to be a bit of a reportie between the regulars.
That said, it is by no means a closed group.

As for posts being ignored, I have been aware of one or 2, what I have noticed is if a 'newbie' posts a joke, that noone finds funny, it would tend to get ignored, rather than a load of get your coat type replies a regular would get, but that is surely being polite to someone you don't know?

Also at the meets, I have seen 'unknowns' being made very welcome, with only one exception to that rule of a member who was trying to attend with 2 parties and had a conflict of interest, and was upset the entire oof wouldnt join his other party.

I have also 1st hand seen what happens when a newbie is treated like a regular, with an innocent double entendre that was taken completely the wrong way, which could have easily been resolved, but quickly turned into a big deal.
other things that could make this place appear unwelcoming is the abrubt way newbies are told of their wrongdoing, I know some are obviously just trying it on to try and make a sale, but there are countless "Fill in your profile" requests, when a "If you put some details about yourself in your profile, it will really help us diagnose you problem, you may even find a local member offers to help" would be much friendlier.  This is the internet after all, we are all well aware of the warnings about not revealing personal info, so people may well be reluctant to comply to such a 'demand' from a bunch of strangersm, however good our intentions are.






I also was made very welcome and had a few problems a while ago with my camcovers needed a few parts etc....on a saturday night and within 1/2 hour a kind man offered me the parts that i needed,without knowing who i was and then he gives me his home address,phone number and lets me collect the parts at 9pm at night,then when i asked how much he wanted he said to just replace them and drop them off when passing his area,

And then another kind man collected alloys from his country Scotland and delivered them to Wales to me even after being told that his route of travel had been changed and that he did'nt have to go nowhere near Wales,just goes to show the great people that are on here

cheers Jimbob  :y and Jim  :y (and thats only 2 members of this excellent forum but now i can't wait to meet more of my fellow oofers)
 :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Chopsdad on 21 November 2008, 22:22:28
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I dont think this place is cliquey at all.
There is however, an in-crowd.  This is envitable, some of use have been here a long time, and have history before that, and have met on several, some many occasions.

The in-crowd also make this place what it is....4466 members, probably 50 very regular contributors, and another few hundred occasional posters.  So there is obviously going to be a bit of a reportie between the regulars.
That said, it is by no means a closed group.

As for posts being ignored, I have been aware of one or 2, what I have noticed is if a 'newbie' posts a joke, that noone finds funny, it would tend to get ignored, rather than a load of get your coat type replies a regular would get, but that is surely being polite to someone you don't know?

Also at the meets, I have seen 'unknowns' being made very welcome, with only one exception to that rule of a member who was trying to attend with 2 parties and had a conflict of interest, and was upset the entire oof wouldnt join his other party.

I have also 1st hand seen what happens when a newbie is treated like a regular, with an innocent double entendre that was taken completely the wrong way, which could have easily been resolved, but quickly turned into a big deal.
other things that could make this place appear unwelcoming is the abrubt way newbies are told of their wrongdoing, I know some are obviously just trying it on to try and make a sale, but there are countless "Fill in your profile" requests, when a "If you put some details about yourself in your profile, it will really help us diagnose you problem, you may even find a local member offers to help" would be much friendlier.  This is the internet after all, we are all well aware of the warnings about not revealing personal info, so people may well be reluctant to comply to such a 'demand' from a bunch of strangersm, however good our intentions are.






I also was made very welcome and had a few problems a while ago with my camcovers needed a few parts etc....on a saturday night and within 1/2 hour a kind man offered me the parts that i needed,without knowing who i was and then he gives me his home address,phone number and lets me collect the parts at 9pm at night,then when i asked how much he wanted he said to just replace them and drop them off when passing his area,

And then another kind man collected alloys from his country Scotland and delivered them to Wales to me even after being told that his route of travel had been changed and that he did'nt have to go nowhere near Wales,just goes to show the great people that are on here

cheers Jimbob  :y and Jim  :y (and thats only 2 members of this excellent forum but now i can't wait to meet more of my fellow oofers)
 :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y

I bought a kayak from Ebay and a local member collected it and paid nearly £400 from his own cash before I sent him the money, wrapped it all in bubblewrap :o and was even going to take a day off work to wait in for the courier.

Oh, and I'd never even (and still haven't) met him before. Thanks again HC - Ps I bought a second one this week - £20 delivered direct from Brighton  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: LJay on 22 November 2008, 12:22:51
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;D I want to see the 6 malcontents whom voted 'cliquey'; named and shamed! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Oppps, one of those is mine ;D

Me too! I voted cliquey!
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: LFF64 on 22 November 2008, 12:43:37
Simple really if you do not like it you do not have to be a member do you >:(  You will get out of it what you put in same as every thing in life  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Lizzie_Zoom on 22 November 2008, 12:55:05
You need to resize your avatar LFF64! :D ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: dieseldean on 22 November 2008, 13:25:05
 :-? what does cliquey mean cos i havn't got a dictionary to llok it up :-?
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Mr Skrunts on 22 November 2008, 13:37:48
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:-? what does cliquey mean cos i havn't got a dictionary to llok it up :-?


Type it into Google  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: dieseldean on 22 November 2008, 13:50:10
i feel quite welcome on this site' even though my tractors messy looks and poor behaviour can embarrass fellow owners of miggys :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Andy B on 22 November 2008, 15:17:09
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i feel quite welcome on this site' even though my tractors messy  ...... behaviour   .....

It certainly didn't behave very well outside Guy's house when it filled the gutter!!!  ::)  ::)   ;D  ;D ;D ;) ;)
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: dieseldean on 22 November 2008, 16:15:53
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i feel quite welcome on this site' even though my tractors messy  ...... behaviour   .....

It certainly didn't behave very well outside Guy's house when it filled the gutter!!!  ::)  ::)   ;D  ;D ;D ;) ;)

they dont call me dieseldean for nowt :D :D :D :D :D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Hoffi on 22 November 2008, 17:00:03
I am a member to some car forums too and I have to admit that this is the most responsive and helpful forum I came across in years!
And as being a newby in this forum with absolutely knowing no one personally I ALWAYS received a response and help where needed!!

OOF rules!  :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 22 November 2008, 17:14:07
I think the poll needs another option. I want to vote for one that says:

"I can see why it can come across as cliquey to newer members, but having been here a while believe it not to be the case".
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 22 November 2008, 17:36:50
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I think the poll needs another option. I want to vote for one that says:

"I can see why it can come across as cliquey to newer members, but having been here a while believe it not to be the case".


Too many characters (max 50) so reduced to "Just post and join in; you'll settle"
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: HolyCount on 22 November 2008, 17:39:52
Be like me --- a clique of one ( and I am in charge !!! ) :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Tony H on 22 November 2008, 19:44:45
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I think the poll needs another option. I want to vote for one that says:

"I can see why it can come across as cliquey to newer members, but having been here a while believe it not to be the case".
Agreed James :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: feeutfo on 23 November 2008, 01:39:34
Strange, if you want help with a problem i can think of nowhere better, more informed, knowledgeable, helpfull, the effort some people put in to this forum i find incredible. They do it for free, for love, they want to help, pass on what they know... A post like this "could" be upsetting to those people who work so hard for the love of it?

Simple fact is you can not please all of the people all of the time.

Another fact, on here at least, people will still try to keep everyone happy...

Assume it is clique, what do you do about it? :-/ :-/

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 23 November 2008, 02:10:07
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Strange, if you want help with a problem i can think of nowhere better, more informed, knowledgeable, helpfull, the effort some people put in to this forum i find incredible. They do it for free, for love, they want to help, pass on what they know... A post like this "could" be upsetting to those people who work so hard for the love of it?

Simple fact is you can not please all of the people all of the time.

Another fact, on here at least, people will still try to keep everyone happy...

Assume it is clique, what do you do about it? :-/ :-/


I personally am not going to jump in guns blazing, and shout at the OP "We are not cliquey".

At the end of the day, it's a word I have heard used about this forum quite a bit, and I think we all have a responsiblity to ensure newer members don't feel this way.

I know it's not intentional by any of us, and I honestly believe that - but in reality, I can see why some new members feel the way they do  :-X :-[

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: TheBoy on 23 November 2008, 09:15:51
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Strange, if you want help with a problem i can think of nowhere better, more informed, knowledgeable, helpfull, the effort some people put in to this forum i find incredible. They do it for free, for love, they want to help, pass on what they know... A post like this "could" be upsetting to those people who work so hard for the love of it?

Simple fact is you can not please all of the people all of the time.

Another fact, on here at least, people will still try to keep everyone happy...

Assume it is clique, what do you do about it? :-/ :-/

not at all - we achieved (imho) our initial goal of become the world's best online Omega resource, we now need to stay the best - and we can't do that we our heads up our backsides assuming everything is rosy, when clearly they is a perception of a closed group.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 23 November 2008, 09:37:51
So is there anything we can do about it?

I think there might be (and this is in no way a criticism of what is done now, but just suggestions to take it to the next level)




These are all "straw man" suggestions merely to start the thought process and debate and, as such may be complete b0llox or impractical technically, but they are at least some food for thought.

Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Andy B on 23 November 2008, 10:11:06
People need to meet up in person at one of the various meets up & down the country. Untill they do, names are just that & in the majority of cases I don't think it's possible to 'know' anyone till you have put a face to a name.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: STMO123 on 23 November 2008, 10:13:42
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People need to meet up in person at one of the various meets up & down the country. Untill they do, names are just that & in the majority of cases I don't think it's possible to 'know' anyone till you have put a face to a name.

I have never been to a meet and the thought of actually having to look at you lot fills me with dread.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 23 November 2008, 10:55:24
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People need to meet up in person at one of the various meets up & down the country. Until they do, names are just that & in the majority of cases I don't think it's possible to 'know' anyone till you have put a face to a name.

I have never been to a meet and the thought of actually having to look at you lot fills me with dread.


Neither have I, but I'd like to. They seem to just pass me by. Maybe it's me or something :-/







Actually THIS PLACE IS CLIQUEY! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Debs. on 23 November 2008, 14:53:45
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Actually THIS PLACE IS CLIQUEY! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Who are you anyway, you`ve only been here 20 years: blinkin` newcomer! ;D

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: beemerdevil on 23 November 2008, 17:40:31
well, it seems to me, that there are a lot of members belonging to the OOF, and obviously some have been on here a long time, some already know each other, some live near each other etc etc etc.......and some , if not lots, have met up at 'meets'......hence some people may see  some 'quips, questions, replies etc, as 'cliquey' - i personally do not...i read loads of the threads with interest; they are VERY informative and i think this forum is brill ;D ;D even tho i have only met a couple of you (The Boy and Mark DTM)<<<< great guys; very knowledgeable and helpful...........keep the good work up....i look forward to meeting more of you maybe next year (when weathers better) at a meet near me -  :y :y :y  
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Elite Pete on 23 November 2008, 17:59:40
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People need to meet up in person at one of the various meets up & down the country. Untill they do, names are just that & in the majority of cases I don't think it's possible to 'know' anyone till you have put a face to a name.

I have never been to a meet and the thought of actually having to look at you lot fills me with dread.
Thats only because your not invited ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: LJay on 23 November 2008, 18:37:27
Not fair to change the poll at this point! ;D
How cliquey is that?????? ;D
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 23 November 2008, 18:48:47
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Not fair to change the poll at this point! ;D
How cliquey is that?????? ;D

You can vote again if you want.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Jay w on 23 November 2008, 18:48:54
I have been here since just after the start, and i have been and gone a few times.

There are some close groups of friends within the forum and there are times when what they post goes straight over my head, i wouldn't call that cliquey......

i have met up with a few people from the forum myself, either to help them or vice versa, i have been to a couple of meets as well, and have enjoyed myself, however i will admit i am not the most talkative person there, that said everyone i have met has always made me feel welcome

it takes time to integrate into a society, and that is what a well established forum like OOF is.

I have been into Vauxhall forums for may years now, MIG, VXON, even ABS, they all have their communities that are incredibly cliquey  
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: LJay on 23 November 2008, 19:07:48
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Quote
Not fair to change the poll at this point! ;D
How cliquey is that?????? ;D

You can vote again if you want.

No point! Shall stick with cliquey! Think changing the poll proves that.
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: stuy112 on 23 November 2008, 19:23:54
Read most of the thread and followed it over a few days, had a similer conversation on another forum I'm admin on not so long ago where we were considered cliquey.
To newcomers/non-regular users the forum comes across as being cliquey, but you have to remember your/i'm an outsider that is trying to 'get in' with a group of friends that is already established, and that group of friends will have seen people come and go, use and abuse etc. Stick around and meet people, build up trust, have a good craic and you'll break into that circle of friends eventually.

As forums go this is one of the most welcoming and helpful ones I've been on (and I've been on a few!) I've also met a lot of great people at the couple of meets I've been to and made some great new friends :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: ARH1 on 23 November 2008, 22:32:03
Since joining the forum I have learnt more about my mig from peeps in here than I could phoning a vauxhall dealer. I have found people in Here very helpful although at times I have probably asked some stupid questions, they have been very patient. Clique is something I have not found. When I have posted I have had many reads and very few replies but the replies I have recieved have helped me out. Thats what I joined the forum for. I am always reading the posts and if I find that I have nothing worthy to add its better not to reply as that could cause confusion. So thanks to the forum members and keep up the good work :D ;D :y
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: feeutfo on 23 November 2008, 23:58:27
Quote
Quote
Strange, if you want help with a problem i can think of nowhere better, more informed, knowledgeable, helpfull, the effort some people put in to this forum i find incredible. They do it for free, for love, they want to help, pass on what they know... A post like this "could" be upsetting to those people who work so hard for the love of it?

Simple fact is you can not please all of the people all of the time.

Another fact, on here at least, people will still try to keep everyone happy...

Assume it is clique, what do you do about it? :-/ :-/

not at all - we achieved (imho) our initial goal of become the world's best online Omega resource, we now need to stay the best - and we can't do that we our heads up our backsides assuming everything is rosy, when clearly they is a perception of a closed group.
Ok,so the answer is?
Title: Re: OOF FORUM
Post by: Albatross on 24 November 2008, 01:16:13
Quote
Quote
Quote
Strange, if you want help with a problem i can think of nowhere better, more informed, knowledgeable, helpfull, the effort some people put in to this forum i find incredible. They do it for free, for love, they want to help, pass on what they know... A post like this "could" be upsetting to those people who work so hard for the love of it?

Simple fact is you can not please all of the people all of the time.

Another fact, on here at least, people will still try to keep everyone happy...

Assume it is clique, what do you do about it? :-/ :-/

not at all - we achieved (imho) our initial goal of become the world's best online Omega resource, we now need to stay the best - and we can't do that we our heads up our backsides assuming everything is rosy, when clearly they is a perception of a closed group.
Ok,so the answer is?


I posted a few ideas on the previous page, trying to be a little pro-active, but this place is so cliquey I don't think they care what I say  ;D

Quote
So is there anything we can do about it?

I think there might be (and this is in no way a criticism of what is done now, but just suggestions to take it to the next level)

  • How about a more verbose and carefully crafted version of the automatic e-mail that is sent when someone 1st registers that takes time to explain, and welcome, them into the fold. I know that the "New Members" section really works well, but do all new members actually use it? A more pro-active direction of a new member to create that all important "1st post" on that section would be useful.
  • I know this bit may sound like gratuitous promotion of the OOF map, but trust me it is an admin overhead for me to manage, but that introduction e-mail could contain details about this and help them to understand that we are about and real people. Many of whom will proabably be local to them and prepared to help them.
  • Perhaps a "new member" alerting mechanism or list that can then let other  members see who has joined most recently and provides links to their 1st couple of posts. This way existing members who are worried about this could be enabled to take a more pro-active approach to seek out those posts and respond.
  • Perhaps when new members join they could be highlighted to longer term members with a marker other than the amount of posts delivered; suggesting a "date joined" perhaps?
  • How about a pro-active approach to inviting members to find out more about regional meets? If you can mandate the "location" field (with a constrained County drop down list) during the registration process, you may then be able to target them with PM's that tell them about more local meets and also provide them with lists of other members in their local area thereby creating more of a "community spirit".



These are all "straw man" suggestions merely to start the thought process and debate and, as such may be complete b0llox or impractical technically, but they are at least some food for thought.