Creating an unique general forum

[Varlot]

Hey there!

General themed forums is a thing done a thousand times before, and the lack of originality often turns into these forums closing down. However, I have a vision of general themed forum that actually stands out from the bunch. I have my ideas, but I'd like to hear yours! What usually turns you off with a forum, and what makes you join a forum despite it being of an old theme. My philosophy is that clichés often are just that for a reason, and that the general theme is rather classic than overused. The question is how you try to reform an old idea.

In addition to ideas, I need an idea for a name. Or no, not a name, a brand. Names for this type of forum are often "ChillForum", "GeneralChat" and other names that create limited to no attention. I need something I can promote and sell.

TLDR: I am creating a general forum. How do I avoid making it dull?

I would love to hear what you think!

 

[MOHSERR]

If you wish I could assist, what forum software you using?

 

[Varlot]

Haven't decided yet, gotta take a look at my incoming pay checks. I initially planned on using my XenForo license but it's kind of double booked, so I'll have to take a look at alternatives.

 

[Ash]

No what matter you do, it will always be a general forum and there will always be another more successful forum out there that is doing the same exact thing. It's really hard to be honest to kick start a general forum. So many out there.

 

[crumblepie]

Promoting a niche forum isn't easy either. I think you should just go for what you want. To me the most important thing is the theme. And rules that don't confuse me. It could be a general forum with a few interesting niches in it.

 

[pandaa]

General forums seem so hit and miss to me. I really couldn't tell you what makes one successful, and another one flop. I think the best thing you could do is to keep things relaxed, active, and simple. Like others have said, they've been done a million times, but you've got a decent shot if you can make it visually appealing and lively. 🙂

 

[Sharon]

The key thing is to be able to offer something that no other forum is currently offering. This is something that I am struggling with my general forum. I wish I could offer you some specific suggestions but I still have to figure it out myself. That is where my mindset it though to try and think of something different that will benefit my members. Content is definitely key I think to have hot topics ready to talk about. It isn't good enough to just copy other successful general forums.