Something I’ve done on some sites and seen on others is to create a pinned index of useful threads (a form of FAQ, really). Even if they are ignored (which they often are), they don’t clutter up the flow of a board.

The real problem with just referring a new user to a thread is the amount of off-topic discussion and banter that just naturally happen over the course of a thread. Someone who is looking for an answer about stuffing brats isn’t always interested in reading 47 posts on what everyone thought about the 2019 Super Bowl. LOL

Should this be the default?

I think that all people are different in how they gather and process new information and what sources work best for them. Having choices is usually a good thing in that regard.

I’m with you on that 100%. Some folks prefer to lurk or look up things before asking. I like accommodating them, too.

I think that all people are different in how they gather and process new information and what sources work best for them. Having choices is usually a good thing in that regard.

When I am in a hurry for a specific answer to a question, I may posted question. If it doesn’t get a reply fairly quickly , I will resort to a FAQ or a topic search if one is available.

I’ve been on a number of forums over the years (as I’m sure all of you have, as well), and this always comes up. Frankly, I’ve never had a problem with someone asking “that question” again. On a BBQ forum that I was active on for many years (and, sadly, no longer exists), I don’t know how many times I described how I cooked brisket, prepared ribs, managed a fire, and other “basics” to someone who just joined. On a homebrewing forum, I went over basics countless times, as well. I few forums like this in the same way I attended hobby club meetings–it’s an exchange of knowledge, not just a collection of literature. New members are excited and enthusiastic, and they want to -talk- about the topic of the forum, not just read about it. Demanding that they do a forum search shuts them down, and I don’t believe that’s the vibe we’re looking for around here. Can you imagine how you would feel if you showed up at a meeting of enthusiasts and started asking “basic” questions only to be handed a book and be told to read it before asking those questions? I’d probably turn around and leave, never to return, and mutter some choice curses on my way out.

Also, it’s a way to see new members–not everyone posts in the “Roll Call” thread, and not everyone reads it. Encouraging questions (or, at least, not discouraging them) is one of the best ways to see new faces.

Another reason to not shoot down questions is that answers develop and change over time. Think about how the sous vide discussions have progressed.

Now, I’m all for a FAQ list, and I don’t think it’s ever a bad idea to suggest that someone do a search on past topics if done in a friendly manner. Even better, go ahead and give someone a link to a relevant thread if you have one in mind.

One thing one forum I’ve seen do is to have designated “ambassadors” for new members. However, I don’t see that needed here. It’s an incredibly friendly forum around here, and someone always is popping up to welcome someone new.

processhead I was actually thinking of sticking it up next to the conversion chart at the very top of the page…that is getting a bit crowded though. kyle I understand what you are suggesting (or at least I think I do) but I did some searching for available plugins from NodeBB (they are the hosters) and couldn’t find anything. That doesn’t mean it cant be done, we have had them custom write things for us in the past but it might be a way down the line.

Another thought regarding FAQ’s.
FAQ’s can cover everything from recipes, to how to post a picture, to how to troubleshoot an equipment problem.

It might help to have the FAQ’s subdivided into logical topic categories so a user could drill down to the FAQ category that is relevant to their actual question.

As the FAQ’s grow in number over time, it could be helpful for both users and admins to have them organized into general topic groups