>>> I say let the new setting "Messages that start new topics are moderated" option exist, see how it works, and use it if you wish.
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After seeing where and how it works already, I think I now see why Mark may have created this new setting; this type of least-load moderation works perfectly for app support groups, and the app subgroup is the perfect place to put it to use, LOL!??
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Or a more technical reason could be to finally "even-out" the moderation settings between individual and group; beforehand, the "Override: moderate the first message of every topic this person starts" user-level mod setting wasn't represented in the available group level mod settings, it now is.
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In any case, for support/technical groups, moderating just the opening topic gives you all the moderation advantages moderated groups have (editing, categorizing/cataloging, keeping the group focused/OnTopic, weeding, etc), plus all the unmoderation advantages as well, it greatly reduces moderator time & workload by allowing the subsequent conversation to flow freely, and benefit online users with a live forum message flow.
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And thinking more about, it's not just tech groups where this can work great:
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For any group where group function & focus is important but mods/members don't prefer constant moderation, this is a win-win compromise; as the moderator you get less work and folks get the mostly unmoderated treatment.??
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Or a vote-moderated group which as a mod you want to nudge towards unmoderation, this setting can be a way to test the waters or ease the transition.??
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The other nice thing is that since it's a system-wide setting, if one has their group setup with the group default moderation setting, if one tries/uses it, it's quick to put the group back in moderation if needed.
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As for thread highjackers, under this setting at least they would be limited to not being able to change the subject, if they do it would be like starting a new topic, so their message wouldn't go through.? For the non-knowledgeable-enough, whose first attempt would most likely changing the subject, this may discourage them from trying to use it again.? The knowledgeable ones will of course quickly figure they have to leave the subject alone, but that's when the mod steps in.
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Anyway, IMO it is a good compromise between fully-moderated and wide-open, I can see where it can of good use to folks, me included, I like it already :D
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Cheers,
Christos
Christos Psarras