Re: Do you think a "Buy & Sell" Sub-Forum would be helpful?
Not really but the idea of sub-forums could be a good idea. Although headlined as a cajun accordion discussion forum some may find, as I do, this forum discussion on cajun music, songs and tunes somewhat disappointing. Might be worth a thought as to the original forum premise.
However, looking through the forum participation I don't believe there are the numbers to warrant sub-forums. However, if there were I would like to see these topics subbed: lyrics; are you going to etc.; reeds/bellows/building and other technicals. Only because I'm not particularly interested. How about a sub-forum for music?
Re: Do you think a "Buy & Sell" Sub-Forum would be helpful?
Big,
Along with Cajun music, I have several other "old school" type hobbies. Like shaving with straight razors. I frequent a razor forum thats pretty streamlined. Like Cajun accordion, straight razors have several sub topics, e.g. restorations, sharpening, beginners, or types of razors, etc. They have a person that is moderator for each sub-forum, that way responsibility to keep forums on topic, move discussions to appropriate forums, etc is not laid heavily on the shoulders of one person. It has worked for them for several years, and I would dare say, allowed more people to become interested based on the various topics associated. If you do go through with this, which I support 100%, I only ask you put a small room in the corner for fiddlers.
here is the link
http://straightrazorplace.com/content/
good luck on your deliberations and have a great day!
Re: Do you think a "Buy & Sell" Sub-Forum would be helpful?
I personally don't mind seen for sale stuff on the main page, if it's cajun related. And I'm less likely to go looking for other threads. I know some people get tweaked about it, but....
I would post listing in the buy/sell area that I am reluctant to post in the "general discussion" area.
I don't think it is appropriate to post buy/sell adds in the general discussion space.
I also would NOT worry about the the buy/sell area being filled with trash, because it is only Bravers that are posting. If I put up a "bad" ad, I am going to get a bad reputation very quickly and no one will want to buy any of my accordions.
But, I also think that we should limit the items for sale to related items, no OT postings. e.g. Margi Gras beads, CDs, t-shirts, etc.
Or if you want, the buy/sell area could be sub-catigorized to allow for such. That way each band could list their stuff in the APPROPRIATE sub catigory.
Also, there should be rules about frequency of reposting. (Even with the rules Craigslist gets really annoying with some guy reposting the same trashy guitar every day.)
A buy and sell forum is standard on other box discussion groups as well as the majority of instrument discussion groups.
I really don't want to (and don't) scroll through 20 pages of discussions searching for a box for sale.
Accordeons would sell faster, make it easier for buyers and sellers.
If you want to see rules go to the UMGF buy and sell
( Unofficial Martin Guitar Forum) they are the ultra weenies for rules if you want to go that far.
I see self policing. Folks know who the flakes are.
Post the specs, post the facts, post the price and shipping/return policy.