Why have forum rules? Why enforce the rules?

[writespeak]

Of course there are reasons, and I know what I think. I'd like to know how other people answer the subject line questions.

Why do we (at whatever forums we represent) have forum rules?

Why enforce the rules? What are the goals behind rules enforcement?

Thanks!

Lois

[BurakUeda]

What level of "forum rules" are we talking about? The whole forum concept? like:

• No need to register
• No moderation
• No limits to posting pictures/uploading files
• No restrictions to admin area
• etc.

Or the rules /after/ the registration?
I am guessing it is latter so; we have rules to attract more visitors, by providing a controlled discussion arena and -limited but effective- protection from spammers/flamethrowers/trolls.

[D'Godown]

There are rules to prevent stupidity, because the nature of online media is very different and faceless.

[immediate]

Most of the rules are made to keep out spam, mainly.

[SoftWareRevue]

Originally Posted by writespeak

Of course there are reasons, and I know what I think. I'd like to know how other people answer the subject line questions.

Why do we (at whatever forums we represent) have forum rules?

Why enforce the rules? What are the goals behind rules enforcement?

Thanks!

Lois

I believe it all begins with the mission statement. If you have a mission statement, you create and enforce rules to meet that statement.

If you don't have a mission statement - get one.