Gunny

[editec]

Some questions from someone who is more used to an unmoderated board:

How exactly does one mediate disputes and attempt to avoid violence in this ascii environment?

Are there clearly stated rules of conduct which guide the moderator's actions and interference with the board?

And especially how does one moderate from a position of unbiased nuetrality when the moderators are also participate in the goings on?

Specifically, what powers over participants are vested with this position?

Is there an appeal process, and if so to whom is that appeal made?

If not, then what is the difference between moderation and rule by fiat?



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[Gunny]

Some questions from someone who is more used to an unmoderated board:

How exactly does one mediate disputes and attempt to avoid violence in this ascii environment?

A simple post asking those involved to back off or cool off usually works.

Are there clearly stated rules of conduct which guide the moderator's actions and interference with the board?

No. In most cases, they are unneccessary. Moderators are chosen for several reasons, one being that they have a clear understanding of the board rules and generally obey them prior to being asked if they would like to be a moderator. Enforcement of the board rules; which, are not all-inclusive and clearly state such, is the moderator's job.

And especially how does one moderate from a position of unbiased nuetrality when the moderators are also participate in the goings on?

There is no guarantee that they will. The moderators understand that the board is the board and politics are politics. If they cannot divorce one from the other when representing the former, then I don't need them.

If and when such an instance takes place, it is handled on an individual basis, and it is handled in private.

Specifically, what powers over participants are vested with this position?

The position of moderator has the power to issue warnings, infraction points, and ban. They can move or lock threads, and in the absence of the board owner or administrator are THE representative of this board.

Is there an appeal process, and if so to whom is that appeal made?

Moderator decisions are appealed to me. My decisions are appealed to the board owner. If you want to appeal his, you're screwed.

If not, then what is the difference between moderation and rule by fiat?

None.


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