Trying to get a feel for the discussion format that fits the purposes of this site. The old one brought the most current discussion to the top, so when a discussion got heated and had alot of responses, it was on full display. The new category gives it by category topic. This way if someone wants to go have a politcal banter, they go to the proper category and it remains in that category. Here's the deal - I need to know what you all want. I know there was some initial distaste for the new format, but please, give it a week and then decide. Let me know what you think...now and then a week from now. If a strong majority would like to keep the old format - I'll gladly do it.
Keith. I appreciate your attempt to address the divisive and non-shale related activity. Would it be possible to utilize the old format but limit political discussions to a page other than the main page. Those that wish to fight it out along political lines may do so out of the sight of those of us who are active members looking for information related to the exploration and production of hydrocarbons in NW. LA. and E. TX.
i like the old way with the latest/current discussions up front... like on the front page. will give it a week and send another comment. thanks for allowing comments. jhh
Keep the old format, I can't keep up with what is going on with the new one. I get on the site many times a day not once a month, in fact most of the time I can't even log off because the site will not let me.
I'm voting for the old way ... takes too long this way to find new discussions and keep up with those I'm interested in (may be just reading for info, may be posting & following). I know learning a new system takes time, so I'll try it. But I find myself resorting to my profile page to save time and to hook into discussions I've replied to. And I don't have the time after work to go digging for the new discussions & info that may be getting a lot of attention.
Also, newbies might feel overwhelmed trying to go through all those categories. I also liked the "front page" format for the same reason a newspaper uses it ... headlines are what sell the site. :0)
Will struggle through the week trying it out. sesport
Can you go back to the old format ('hot discussions') and 'group' the discussions in the same manner as you show the member groups on the main page? Maybe even do a Discussion Groups page for 'View All' link (analogous to the View All for the groups)?
I agree with sesport person, it is time-consuming to search for discussions using the new format. Hate to be a party pooper, but don't we get enough politics elsewhere?