To post or not to post?
By Andrew C. Syren
Have you ever had a question for your local paintball shop that went unanswered? Have you ever wondered if getting information was easier than running through the routine 20 questions while playing at the field? Well, the answer to these questions may not be so distant at all. In fact, the solution your seeking may be right under your nose.
The most extensive database for paintball information is not the local “know-it-all” down at your pro shop or one of the many paintball rags out there for your reading pleasure. The largest collection of paintball knowledge is in the paintball forums found at most online stores and information websites. Much like the wonderful forums we have here at the Times, many other sites have a forum of some type to post your thoughts and questions.
Forums have been around for years now and are far from ever going away. In fact, people are finding that forums are the best possible resource for information in any topic. Here at the Times, we strive to maintain a user-friendly paintball forum with some of the finest hand picked moderators and forum administrators. With the proper leadership a forum can thrive on both positive feedback and a good layout. Posting on a forum may very well be the one bridge between you and the answer to your dilemma.
Finding a forum is probably the hardest step in finding your solutions. There are many forums to pick from and with the vastness of the internet, your search will be well rewarded if carefully performed. Using sites like Google.com and Yahoo.com are great ways to start. Once you have found a few forums to visit, take a look around and see if it is a forum that suits your personal needs. If not, then move on to the next. There is no need to become a member at every forum you find but having your eggs stored in one basket may become a problem in the future. So, feel free to commit to a few forums that peek your interests and get involved.
Getting involved at a particular forum is what keeps you coming back for more. Getting the help you need is all well and good but helping others out and sharing your wisdom is so much more rewarding. There is a world of people waiting to help you but they too may need a little help from time to time. As you gain a reputation on the forum, you may find that many other doors of opportunity will be open to you. Finding friends across the continent or even the world is a cool feeling to have. So go on, find that forum that fits your needs and have fun doing it. The cyber world of knowledge awaits you.
Editor’s note: Slim began his career at the Times as a forum user, slowly moved up to a forum moderator, and eventually became the forum God administrator. Now Slim is a full-fledged Times columnist. Look for his works in upcoming issues of the Times.
