Problem of list vol (was No responses on the main list )

[jimlaming]

"Shaun Hately" wrote: <snip>
I think part of the problem is how large the list is getting - not 
that I have a solution to that problem - but because probably 
everybody is having to skim messages, a huge amount that people are 
writing probably isn't even being read by most of the list. <snip>

Carolyn:
Its a problem that a lot of people are experiencing. It actually does 
need addressing, because otherwise the character of the list will be 
permanently damaged, IMO. <snip>


Jim chimes in:

I joined almost 2 years ago and only started posting in the last 6-8 
months or so.  Unfortunately, I have now stopped reading regularly as 
I just can't keep up with the volume and the discussions seem to be 
revolving with very little new thought.  Currently, I come back to 
research a topic I have questions or ideas about and when I have a 
few spare hours (LOL).  There is a wealth of knowledge in the 
archives if you can get through the search engine.

The HPfGU discussion board was my first HP site.  As I have 
progressed in my obsession, I have found other formats that enhanced 
my study and understanding.  Perhaps one of these could help solve 
the volume crisis.

There is the synopsis format where a moderator (committee) has boiled 
down the theories (al la; Hypothetic Alley: HPfGU's Wildest 
Speculations) and presents the theories in all their spender.  They 
have noted major disagreements, flaws, interrelationships to other 
theories and variations on a theme.  To my knowledge, there have been 
no new updates to the "Fantastic Posts and Where to Find Them" site 
since OOP came out.  I would love to see that branch of HPfGU 
reactivated.  Posters like me would ask fewer stupid questions and 
have that "wealth of knowledge" organized and easily accessed. 

Another format is to subdivide the topics into separate discussion 
boards.  Snape, Harry, Molly, Quidditch, Hogwarts, magical creatures, 
FILK, SHIP, JKR interviews and appearances, etc
  Then we can review 
the subject we are most interested in.  Divide and concur, I mean 
conquer. ;-)

I agree that something needs to be done to regulate or organize the 
flood of posts.  We are drowning in our own success. I don't pretend 
to have all the answers.  There are a lot smarter people than me out 
there.  I hope we can find a way.

Respectfully,
Jim Laming