I will flatly state that there is no other more comprehensive Isuzu (and some rogue Hondas <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />) information source that I have ever found, in any format. The ability to share and plumb information in this place is astounding and useful on a consistent basis. I place the reason for that on the diverse experiences and understanding of our members as well in the careful nudging and shaping that is done by the moderators. I don't mind telling someone new to use the search feature, but I'll typically only do that in conjunction with some starter info that they can use to make it more effective, and that is typically the type of response that I see from the moderators of these boards.

For my personal interest, I'm not particularly interested in seeing much non-Isuzu-related content on the board. I use this as a source for information, inspiration, and window-shopping/drool-producing in regards to my truck. Some particular exceptions are the occasional thread which involve a major impact on the life of a fellow board member. Because that person and I share at least a single bond, I am concerned enough to know about a birth, accident, or other incident which made a marked difference in their world. I'm not particularly interested in a general discussion on separate topics. If I have a particular topic I want to discuss with someone, I'll PM them or find a different forum. I'm not trying to be harsh, just define what value I take out of these boards.

I am very appreciative of the work and effort that our moderators and administrators put into keeping this resource functional and as close to streamlined as it can get with such a broad range of people and personalities involved. The fact that they do it all on a volunteer basis is all that much more a testament to their enjoyment and involvement with this common affliction of Isuzuitis we share. I imagine most will join me in a heart round of virtual applause for the work they do.

Personally I'd like to be able to hear more from our moderators in terms of sharing in threads, but I think that they are somewhat hamstrung by their very position. How difficult is it for those of us who are not in such a position to sometimes take what is intended as suggestion or advice just at face value if it has a green name attached to it rather than a standard black one? With the extra weight of that title, I think that the responses can carry more of a potential charge for the recipient, and can seem harsher that way. Sometimes folks come across as gruff or curt, but it's easier to get raised hackles if it's coming from a moderator. Michael, I know you've been considered so by some in the past, but for me it flows off. From what I've seen of you, you're like a tap with a flyswatter, while my younger brother is like a backhand with a coal scoop, so I brush by and move on (I hope you take no offense). I also see the responses and attitudes in these forums as commendably calm and reasonable in most cases, not just in our moderators, but in all the members who make this place what it is.

I am very happy with the balance and understanding that seems to prevail in these forums. As Paul said, once you get the feel for how things flow, it's easy and normal. We're usually very decent to new people with the same old questions, and address them agreeably. As such, I think most of us work as mini-moderators out of that same love of our trucks and their development. We all make this place what it is, and what it is makes me come back, so I'm not interested in much change.

For my money, Michael it does you and your fellow moderators credit for putting this question in place and providing an opportunity for feedback that is so readily noticeable, as we'll forget the individual contacts sometimes. I enjoy what is here, what you and those before you have created, and hope that I can share some small bit in its continuance.

Way too long now,

James
(no I haven't let Smiley log on through my computer <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" /> J/K bud)