The more transparency, the better. Keeping a ton of information behind closed doors doesn't help the users at all, and in a lot of cases just annoys them. You should always be discussing actions and things with your users, because they are the ones who are helping your site thrive.
I'm pretty open/transparent. I feel there's a point where certain things don't need to be shared with members though, and need to stay within staff members, or even administrators, so I guess I'm not 100% transparent. I agree with [user]Forces Of Steel[/user] that a balance needs to be achieved.
Well, if you are too transparent you're going to piss off some people. 😛 "Ugh, I just cannot stand this member" etc. is bound to be the awkward post of the day in your very on GT thread.
When it comes to making decisions, and being called up on certain things, transparency can establish trust between you and the community; and without trust you're just a dude in a white van selling candy for posts.
I am transparent, I will tell you like it is even if that means whacking you into a state of reality. However certain things like ban appeals and personal things should stay within the staff. Heck, even secret URLs and developments should be secret, you can tell people it's there but not be open about it all.
You need a balance of transparency and secretism. If you cannot draw the line somewhere, the line will certainly draw itself.
I agree there must be a balance. It's not impossible either. I treat forums like how I would hold myself in the workplace or school (depending on my role in the community). Generally speaking though I try to a maintain an approachable and diplomatic demeanor. I enjoy participating in deep discussions but I do not humor/tolerate patronization and insubordination.
