“Why is this site so dead?” or “We need more users!!!”

February 21, 2005 No Comments

At various points of developing at some of my communities, there are users who start threads asking the question “Why is this site so dead?” Their exact words, no kidding. Either that, or “We need more users!!!” Things like that.

Now, don’t get me wrong. One of the goals of my communities is too grow. But, I don’t really rush growth. I tell users who ask these questions and say these things that they should enjoy what the community is now. Some people enjoy tight knit communities and almost all miss it (some more or less than others) when it is gone. I know I do. But, I also look excitedly towards growth and the challenges that it presents.

But, while we’re not big, you should enjoy it for what it is. Enjoy it while it lasts because once its gone, it probably isn’t going to come back. And, when we’re big, enjoy that, too. But, whatever moment you are in, take it in and enjoy it and make the most of it.

Patrick O'Keefe

Managing online communities since 2000, I publish a collective of websites known as the iFroggy Network. I wrote the book Managing Online Forums and, as a public speaker, have presented for organizations like CNN, institutions like Australian National University and conferences like SXSW. More about me.

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