When Is It Time to Change Direction?

[Maya]

Sometimes your community might go into hibernation or become stagnant. What signs suggest a community needs a reset or new focus?

 

[Allenafaith]

I would say if members stop starting discussions or suggestions ideas. If there aren’t many newcomers and the ones that do join only hang around for a few days before leaving.

 

[Katrina]

Sometimes the members who are currently there don't want change. If you make too big of a switch on a forum, you might lose people who have been long time loyal members.

 

[Shawn Gossman]

Sometimes your community might go into hibernation or become stagnant. What signs suggest a community needs a reset or new focus?

I give my forums 1-3 years.

The first year is all about creating that first content and getting small community established on the forum. If a small community is established, then I move on to year 2 and do heavier marketing efforts to see if the community grows. If it grows, then I set an activity goal to be met by year 3.

I usually only cease to operate a forum if it hasn't budges after year 1.