Hi Folks,
I've just been sent a quote to keep this forum and website running for another three years. The cost is in excess of £500.
From my perspective I'm unconvinced that the level of engagement matches the increase in expenditure (which had previously been 40% lower over a three year period).
Number of posts is down on last year, and engagement stats are more or less static.
Forums generally are a medium that have faded into oblivion as new forms of engagement have developed.
I would therefore like to canvas opinion on whether there is enough interest in the forum continuing for it to be worth such investment. I will need to make a decision on this within a fortnight.
I would like it to continue too. And I would contribute as well Zack, you know my email adres)
I would happily contribute as well.
in case the readership comes up with the money, let it be - otherwise not to be.
I'll kick in some money
Despite the relative decrease in engagement over the last couple of years, I think the site remains a valuable resource, particularly for the notices of new and forthcoming books and obscure articles. I would certainly be willing to contribute to ensure the survival of the site for another three years.
While it would be very sad to see it go, there obviously isn't the level of interest that there was some years ago. Presumably there is no chance of the Waterloo Association or someone else taking it over? Zack, I think you've done a noble thing keeping it going for this long, but perhaps the time has come - and heaven knows, you have enough other things on your plate. Still, I'd be happy to put in some £ towards the cost: 25 supporters each putting in £20 would cover the cost... What do others think?
Hi Zack,
You as a young person, should consider 500 Pound as a small investment for the future that lays ahead of you. The young generation will benefit most. You commited yourself to this website, so you should go for it.
I have been working on my website for 15 years now, and although the website it self is free (fandom) it cost a lot of time and even lots and lots of money, since I bought loads of books and illustrations. And the site of mine neither has many visitors, BUT it is the love for the history that keeps me going. And the age of 65 is no reason to quit either.
Von Bastille bis Waterloo. Wiki | Fandom
Keep it going. Solicit contributions.
My personal opinion? If you want to give up, go ahead. Nothing is lost.
I too would be sad to see it’s demise. I have had answers to questions on here that I don’t think I could have got any other way. I don’t think we should confuse quantity with quality.
If it’s a matter of funds, I wouldn’t mind a voluntary subscription
I check the site every day even if there is little activity.
Thanks for your efforts.
Terry
I would like to see it continued. Firstly, it is my first international point where to ask questions and to get qualified answers. Secondly I feel well informed here about scientific news (new books, museums /exhibitions, archive findings etc.). Please keep it running! BTW: Zakk, how can I support / donate (Paypal?)? Best wishes, Thomas
There do seem to be some free forum hosting solutions around, so it might be worth investigating those.
It is as they say, a sign of the times. Forums were great for all sorts of people getting involved in all sorts of subjects, but the Internet now largely exists in silos and echo chambers. Even the period podcasts tend to be quite specialist and are really listeners hearing the views of an expert or two or the recycling of books - of varying quality - into broadcasts.
It would be nice if the forum continued, but I can understand your concerns. Maybe take up a collection online.
Presumably if you close the forum the rest of the information on the site will be lost. I for one would happily contribute to continuing the website, however you seem less enthusiastic than you were three years ago. Whatever you decide, thanks for the last three years.