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Definition of the term, "discussion forum"

discussion forum

Also known as: "forum"

A discussion forum is a piece of software that can be added to websites to allow visitors to register, create personal profiles and hold discussions with other visitors. These discussions take the format of a single (or multiple) pages, where the initial poster makes a statement, and other users reply to the statement.

The page holding that particular discussion (known as the discussion "thread") shows the original post, followed by subsequent replies by other users in chronological order.

Generally, discussion forums are considered to be a good way to add content to your site that encourages users to come back a visit.

However, forums can create their own unique style of problems, ranging from simple spam (where someone will register to advertise their product), to link spam (where people register and post links as replies to topics for the SEO benefit), to arguments amongst members.

Any forum with a reasonable amount of traffic will require some form of moderation. This is usually handled by the website owner (or appointed staff / volunteers) who can edit or delete offensive or promotional material posted on the forums.

The dynamics of any online community can be very complicated - remember that on the Internet, everyone can have an equal voice and people are not restricted by social and sometimes moral and ethical barriers that they otherwise would be face to face. Have a look at this article for information on types of forum members.

But on the whole, running a discussion can not only be a rewarding experience, it can also help boost your reputation within the industry and create a very unique and useful resource for your site.

Related terms and definitions

• ethical SEO
• inbound links

eflaunt is a UK Internet Marketing and Search Engine Optimisation agency based in Edinburgh, Scotland. For industry news, please refer to the eflaunt SEO blog.