Asked by Bruce Horst ⁽¹⁶²⁾
Bruce Horst 29 days 5 hours ago. (More question by this person)

Do you think a messaging system would be useful on SearchWarp?

We've been talking about adding a messaging system to SearchWarp so that members can send messages to other members without using email. This would also make it easier for the editors to communicate with members.



Would this be useful, or just one more place to check messages?



One added feature is that we could allow members to send messages to everyone in their fan clubs, for making announcements about a new book or web site, etc.



Any other ideas for a messaging system?

To test drive the new (uncomplete) system, go to http://SearchWarp.com/CP-Messaging.asp

Answer from Gregory Lewis ^(1,502)
Gregory Lewis 29 days 1 hour ago. More questions answered by this person)
I would not use it, sorry. I'll bet more than a few would, though. As for me, I've become jaded about IM. I think of it as a time waster. But, I hate talking on the phone, too.

I prefer to write, edit my writing, and publish.

- G

Comment from Bruce Horst ⁽¹⁶²⁾ 28 days 8 hours ago.
Yeah, I'm not a phone-talker either. I do think that a private messaging system could be beneficial for leaving private writing critiques, though.

Comment from Gregory Lewis ^(1,502) 28 days 2 hours ago.
You bring up an excellent point, sorry I didn't put this in the suggestion box: A way to PM a member, when I would say something in private that I don't necessarily want to make public.

- G

Answer from Hilda Cang ⁽²¹¹⁾
Hilda Cang 28 days 12 hours ago. More questions answered by this person)
Well, since we have come that far and with its popularity at the moment, it's not a bad idea if it can be done. Any new system can be put to a 3 months' trial to see whether it works or not.

Answer from Ben Morrish ^(7,929)
Ben Morrish 28 days 9 hours ago. More questions answered by this person)
I think a simple "Private Messaging" system could be handy, mainly to point out typos and things without having to do it publicly :) It would also be a good way for editors to contact members (and vice-versa) privately.

I'm not sure I like the idea of being able to group-message all fan-club members though - people join fanclubs because they like the articles, not necessarily because they want to be contacted with non-article-related messages.

Answer from Lawrence Jones ⁽²¹⁶⁾
Lawrence Jones 28 days 7 hours ago. More questions answered by this person)
A messaging system is a wonderful ideal. It would allow instant access and feedback to authors and readers. In addition, it will draw more people to the site. Reason being, some people like to have dialogue with their favorite author (instantly if online).

Also, messaging system would enhance overall communication between writers and assist one another in editing a particular piece. More constant and consistent interaction between writers, editors, and readers creates a wonderful community to be apart of.

Regards,

Lawrence

Answer from Marijo Phelps ^(2,847)
Marijo Phelps 27 days 5 hours ago. More questions answered by this person)
I like the e-mail feature we now have - being able to chat about things one on one - it works except for those who don't have an e-mail capability listed. Marijo

Answer from Nenita Wells ^(2,071)
Nenita Wells 27 days 2 hours ago. More questions answered by this person)
I like the email feature myself.

~Nenita~