Minor annoyances - locked topics and editing posts

[BlueC]

I'm sure there is good intention behind these restrictions but the locking of topics can stifle (and/or fragment) conversation and inability to edit posts does sometimes make using the forum a little difficult.

For example I found a topic about tool-net.co.uk and before buying there wanted to post to see whether anyone had any further experiences or updates but I couldn't because the topic was locked. I didn't want to or see the sense in starting a new topic so didn't bother, as my question would have been most relevant to the others that had already posted in that topic. The topic was only from last december. If I'm forced to start a new topic it just fragments the conversation.

Also, I'd have welcome the opportunity to edit the first post of one of my threads to add new information so that any newcomers would get a better picture of what the thread was about. But editing of posts is either disabled or I can't find the button?

Just my 2p worth :)

[moderator2]

I'm sure there is good intention behind these restrictions but the locking of topics can stifle (and/or fragment) conversation and inability to edit posts does sometimes make using the forum a little difficult.

For example I found a topic about tool-net.co.uk and before buying there wanted to post to see whether anyone had any further experiences or updates but I couldn't because the topic was locked. I didn't want to or see the sense in starting a new topic so didn't bother, as my question would have been most relevant to the others that had already posted in that topic. The topic was only from last december. If I'm forced to start a new topic it just fragments the conversation.If you wish a topic to be unlocked just click on the "exclamation mark" at the bottom right of any of the posts in the thread, a moderator will be alerted. Just put in your report that you want the thread unlocked. Threads are normally locked after about 2 months of inactivity because
the query has generally been resolved and also to stop over-enthusiastic newbies from digging up long dead threads.

Also, I'd have welcome the opportunity to edit the first post of one of my threads to add new information so that any newcomers would get a better picture of what the thread was about. But editing of posts is either disabled or I can't find the button?There is a 20 minute time limit on editing posts. This is primarily an anti-spam measure, although it is also in place to stop users editing at a later date and changing the direction of the thread, so that someone reading it later could/would either be confused or could potentially follow incorrect advice. Again, if you wish to edit a post or add information, hit the exclamation mark, (Alert Moderator) and include what you wanted added to the post. It may take a while, but all requests will be considered.

Just my 2p worth :)

I hope this goes some way to explaining the whys and wherefores of the way the forum operates.

[BlueC]

Thanks for the explanations, I knew there was good intentions and I understand them. I'm not sure I fully agree with them, or agree that the harm done by the restrictions is any less damaging than the harm they are designed to prevent, but it is not my forum :)

[ultimatehandyman]

There is a mod available that warns users when they are replying to an old thread, once this has been installed there will be no need to lock old posts. As mod 2 pointed out we used to get people digging up old posts that were years old, which was just as annoying to members as not being able to reply to old posts.

Editing posts is dangerous to the forum and could affect the whole site, if for example someone made a post, then went back to it two years later and edited it and inserted links to porn sites it would slip under the mods and admins radar, but the search engines would soon find the link and could severely penalise the site for it.

[BlueC]

A warning would be good for old posts... but I do understand it is also annoying when people revive a 5 year old post!

Hadn't thought about that with editing posts - guess it is especially dangerous if someone's account gets compromised or they do it maliciously so I understand this.

Cheers for replying :)

[happy handyman]

Thanks for you clear responses.