Should we allow access to forum post attachments without requiring registration?

[Marc]

Should we allow access to forum post attachments without requiring registration? I've been thinking about this. I know the number of registrations would drop, probably significantly, because many people register only to get attachments. I'd like your feedback. Please let me know why or why not in your opinion.

Thanks! I appreciate your thoughts.

NOTE: I 'voted' "Not a big deal either way." so that I can see the poll results without clicking a link.

[Steve Prevette]

My "why not" is - there can be viruses in attachments. Granted, the software here probably handles it, but at least having a person register is some level of acceptance prior to posting (yes, one can register as a fake person).

After seeing SPAM and whatnot sneak in to the public boards at ASQ (and you can't even do attachments there) and having to go through and delete them as a moderator, I'm for registration.

[Marc]

Well, I was thinking of opening up Downloading of attachments, not Uploading attachments. I wouldn't even think of opening up UpLoading of attachments to unregistered visitors.

[Steve Prevette]

Doh! A Homer Simpson moment. But, I think it good to dangle a carrot to get people to register.

[harry]

As a businessman I had many opportunities to be involved/trade in many different products. Superficially, it appears that I know a lot but actually nothing much and that doesn't help me.

The cove had given me opportunities to learn a lot through other people. What I learnt the last year with regards to 'quality matters' is much more than what I learnt the last 20 years (in terms of variety/scope). Besides that, I make new friends, learn to observe and respect others culture, behavior etc and polish my communication skills.

This forum is about "Helping People" and based on my experience as a registered user we can do a much better job if we get people registered for they can benefit more. Registration is only a few key strokes and something given away free does not have much "perceived value" and will not benefit anybody. Therefore, I am all for registration!

[DsqrdDGD909]

Absolutely require registration. I've seen too many forums dissolve because of trolls and people looking for trouble.

[BradM]

Since this is Marc's baby, and he posed the question...

I like it just the way you have it set up. I think it is a great idea to require a registration of some sorts before granting access. A thin gate is better than no gate.

I would think that moderators have enough work as it is. I would hesitate to ask them to take on more work if there was no registration of any kind. Too, it allows you to track your website numbers more accurately.

Also, since Marc has allowed advertisement to defray costs of the forum, having a registration screen with some banners is another opportunity. If they want to download just to view, they can view the advertisers for support of the forum.

All I know is most of the vibrant, long-running forums (including online 42) I have seen have a moderate to stringent registration process. I would think that is for a good reason.

Just my .

[BradM]

Originally Posted by harry

As a businessman I had many opportunities to be involved/trade in many different products. Superficially, it appears that I know a lot but actually nothing much and that doesn't help me.

Harry, I want to weigh in here. I hope you are not suggesting that you do not have a broad knowledge base, because you do. I have enjoyed reading your posts, and you have been a very good follow-up/ monitor on many of the posts I have seen. When you post, you always have good stuff to offer. Everyone learns all the time from each other; getting to pick up morsals from all that post. My definition of highly intelligent people are those that have an open mind, willing to learn every chance they have.

Also, as I notice that you do not live in America, I have always notice your posts are very well written. That takes additional time and effort.

Not to get off topic, but did want to weigh in and give you well-deserved kudos.