I don't view full moderation (FM) as an evil state which must be
avoided at all costs. In fact, most vpFREE members (all new members)
are fully moderated, as an anti-spam measure, until they have made a
legitimate post. This has spared the group several online-casino/porno
type posts a week, and is one positive example of FM.
The only obvious negative of FM (to me) is that there is always some
delay before a message is approved and posted. If enough round-the-
clock volunteers materialize, this delay should be a few minutes at
most. And, I haven't seen (nor do I expect to see) many vpFREE posts
where even a few hours delay would be very important in the overall
scheme of things.
Beyond the delay problem, moderation per se isn't bad or good IMO.
What and how you moderate is the question. If you use moderation to
ensure that agreed upon group policies are followed, that's good,
while if you use moderation to stifle differing opinions, that's bad.
Disruptive comments and threads can't be prevented under the semi-
moderation that's used on vpFREE now. Selective, permanent moderation
of individuals can help, but unforseen, disruptive comments and
messages can originate from unmoderated members at anytime.
Under FM, disruptive threads won't be allowed to happen. Most will be
prevented from starting, and when/if any thread gets counter-
productive, it will be stopped immediately in the most equitable,
Solomon-like manner possible.
I'm in the process of putting together a detailed SOP for Volunteer
Moderators, and will post it for everyone's information and comment
when it's completed. I also plan to ask for comments and guidance in
reaching a consensus as to how certain types of potentially disruptive
situations should be handled. And, additional Volunteer Moderators are
needed, particularly in the Midnight to 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM to 5:00
PM Pacific time periods.
I remain convinced that FM will serve vpFREE well, and plan to
implement FM as soon as I get my ducks in order.
vpFREE Administrator
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