Existing text and image board software is often difficult to moderate and can be a breeding ground for abuse. I am proposing a new software solution that addresses these problems by using a variety of innovative features, including user registration, a reputation system, and a community moderation queue.
User Management and Registration
Registration: All users must register for an account in order to post on and access the board. This will allow moderators to track users and ban those who engage in abusive behavior.
Registration types: Registration can be open, closed, invitation with referral code, or moderator approval only. This gives moderators control over who can access the board.
Referral code: The referral code can be used to create a "who invited who" database or visual graphic. This can be used to identify and reward users who contribute positively to the community, as well as to identify and ban users who are responsible for abuse.
Captcha: The registration process should include a CAPTCHA and time delay so as to discourage mass sign-ups through bots.
Account access: Users can choose to post with a username or anonymously.
Moderation
Repuation system: The reputation system will allow moderators to identify and reward registered users who contribute positively to the community via an upvote/downvote system, one per user per thread. Users can earn reputation points by posting helpful and informative content, and by reporting and voting on abuse, which will aid in moderation.
Community moderation queue: The community moderation queue will allow users to participate in the moderation process. Users can flag posts for review by moderators, and they can also vote on whether or not to approve or reject posts.
Other features
Encryption: Each user can be given a PGP encryption key pair. This can be used to encrypt and decrypt posts for the available fora, which can provide additional privacy and security.
Hidden subforums: Hidden subforums can be created for vetted users or for specific purposes, such as a moderator's or donating members forum. This can help to reduce spam and abuse in certain areas of the board.
Benefits
The proposed software solution offers a number of benefits, including:
Reduced abuse: The registration system, reputation system, and community moderation queue will all help to reduce abuse on the board while still allowing for minimalistic text based anonymous discussion publicly.
Increased privacy and security: Encryption can be used to provide additional privacy and security for users.
Improved community engagement: The reputation system and community moderation queue will allow users to participate in the moderation process and to be rewarded for their contributions to the community.
Conclusion
I believe that the proposed software solution has the potential to create a more welcoming and inclusive online community for everyone.