Customer Rating: 
Summary: Read this book, and save yourself years of finding out the hard way!
Comment: Having been a member and moderator at Photoshopforums.com (one of Patrick's many communities) for almost a year now, and had firsthand experience with managing a content-based website of my own, I decided to read "Managing Online Forums" to gain an insight into how online communities are managed - and I wasn't disappointed!
The book really does contain a wealth of information that ranges right from the preparation work you need to do before even thinking about launching an online community, to how you can maintain and advertise the finished product. Through the way, Patrick writes about his experiences and gives a clear indication of not just how he works, but why, which for me is an extremely important factor. His honest reasons and accounts are what turn this good book into a great one!
One of my favourite parts of this book, and one that I find quite astonishing, is the publication of Patrick's hand-crafted User Guidelines that can be used free on your own forums. He also includes all the contact templates that can be used when members break the guidelines. The fact that they are free to use elsewhere is a testament to how useful this book is to anyone working with online communities. I'm sure that everyone from beginner (which is where I fall) to advanced will appreciate the detailed and accurate information that's contained inside.
One day, I'm sure I'll tinker with the idea of creating a forum to run alongside my site, a place where people can come, talk, listen and enjoy, and when that time comes, I know I'll feel much more capable knowing Patrick's book is part of my collection.
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