Creating new threads in the forum
The facility to create new threads in the forum is available to logged on all members. Before starting a new thread though, please check to see whether there might already be a thread on the same topic. If there is, it is usually better to continue the discussion there. The forum has a powerful search facility which will assist you in your search.
Try to make the first post in a new thread as interesting and thought provoking as possible. Check that your post makes sense, and is not ambiguous. The most successful threads are those which get people talking in a constructive way.
Once you have established that your topic is worthy of a new thread, you need to identify where to post it. Below is a guide to where different types of threads should be opened. YOU MUST ENSURE YOU MAKE A REASONABLE EFFORT TO IDENTIFY THE CORRECT SECTION FOR YOUR THREAD. Any members who persistently create threads in the wrong sections (especially those erroneously placed in the "Metal Music Lounge") will receive a warning.
The title you give to your thread is very important, and should be carefully considered. The thread title is most commonly used when members are performing searches. For example, someone searching for threads about METALLICA would not find your thread listed in the search results if it was entitled "Master Of Puppets". By calling the thread "Master Of Puppets by Metallica" however, both the band and the album would be found. Likewise, refer to bands such as Dream Theater by their full names, not as DT.
Forums
SOME OF THESE FORUMS CAN BE CLOSED IN EARLY STAGES OF THE SITE
Metal music lounges
Metal Music lounge
This section is for general discussions about Metal. Unless and until an artist is included in MMA, they are not considered to be "metal". In other words, discussions in the "Metal Music Lounge" should only be about groups/music currently included in Metal music Archives, or about Metal in general. If you wish to suggest a band for inclusion in the site, see "Suggest new Bands" below. For discussions on all other types of music see the "General music discussions" section below.
N.B. In terms of the incorrect posting of threads, this is the most widely abused section of the forum. Please make sure you only create threads in this section which directly relate to Metal music.
Metal bands, artists and genres appreciation
Discuss specific Metal bands and their members or a specific sub-genre.
Metal Recommendations and Featured Albums
This section is for discussing and/or recommending specific Metal albums. It should also be used if you are seeking recommendations.
Top 10s and Lists
This section is for listing your favourite bands, albums, etc. Threads which involve making lists with minimal discussion should be placed here.
Polls
This section is for creating polls on topics related to Metal.
Metal Blogs
This section is for Metal related Blogs. The BLOG can be about anything you wish, as long as it is a) a BlLOG, and b) to do with Metal. Only original BLOGs should be posted, not links to BLOGS on other sites.
Interviews
Interviews with people from the world of Metal by site members. Why not contact a Metal artists whose work appeals to you, with a view to interviewing them for the site?
Live Metal Performance Reviews
Been to a gig recently? Post a review of it here! Reviews of gigs from the past are also welcomed.
Metal Books and Miscellaneous reviews
This section is for reviews of Metal related books, memorabilia, etc. If you wish to contribute an review, please advise a member of the admin team.
Metal Events
This section is for letting people know about an upcoming live show, tour, or other prog related events. Note that reviews of live performances should be placed in the "Live Performance Reviews" section (see above). Please do not abuse this section by posting multiple threads on the same event.
Metal News
This section is for letting people know about a new or upcoming Metal album, DVD, interview, press releases, etc. It should also be used for reporting news about Metal artists, and other Metal people. Please note that the thread should actually include the news, and not simply link to it elsewhere and please do not abuse this section by posting multiple threads on the same or similar topic.
News from Official Metal Suppliers
A place for retailers to use to advertise their products.
Metal Tribute bands and metal Radio
Post all news and discussions about Metal tribute bands here. In addtion, news about Metal radio stations, including forthcoming events, should appear here too.
Unsigned bands
A place for new Metal bands with no official releases to publicise themselves.
Other music related lounges
Proto-Metal Lounge
This section is for discussing bands listed on the site who are classified as being in this category.
General Music discussions
Discuss and create polls about any kind of music. This section is also for discussions which involve a cross section of music which might include Metal.
Tech Talk
Discuss musical instruments, equipment, hi-fi, speakers, vinyl, etc.
Music and Musicians Exchange
This section allows Musicians to talk in technical terms to each other, and to discuss matters of mutual interest. You can also provide links to original music for feedback from members.
Get the Word Out
This section allows you to talk about your own project(s) and/or get feedback. (see also the "Music and Musicians Exchange"). You can also promote your website, concert, book CD, etc.
Topics not related to music
General discussions
Discuss any topic at all that is not music-related. N.B. the site rules still apply in this section.
General Polls
Create a poll about any topic at all that is not music-related. N.B. the site rules still apply in this section.
Just for Fun
This section is for participating in trivia and knowledge games, sharing jokes, etc.
I have a question for you......?
Got a question about anything? Post it here in a new thread. If you can help answer an existing question, post your answer in the appropriate thread.
Site News, Newbies, Help and Improvements
Internal News
Here you can stay informed about the latest updates regarding the site
Welcome Newbies
This section is for new members to introduce themselves to everyone and tell us what artists brought you here. Its also allow current members to welcome newbies, and get to know them.
Help us to improve the site
Here you can help us improve the forums, and the site as a whole by offering comments, suggestions, feedback, etc.
Report errors & omissions
Seen a mistake in a band bio etc then please tell us.
Report bugs here
Here you can help us improve the site from a technical point of view. If you notice something which is not working, broken links, etc., report it here.
Report abuse here
Let us know about inappropriate reviews, posts, PMs etc. Please note however that it is often better to deal with the matter confidentially, rather than "going public". Please read the section on "Sniping" in the site rules before posting to this section.
Suggest Bands and Artists
This section is for suggesting and classifying bands and albums you think should be included on Metal music Archives
Edited by Sleepwalker - 30 Mar 2010 at 8:58am