Comments on: Forum Suggestions

By the way I noticed that the FAQ still has Ali's old name TheWizard and doesn't include Kizz as Admin.
This is fairly typical of the way rules and FAQs don't always get updated when other things change around here. That's why I think simplifying the structure would help.

I think it's hard to overlook The Notice Board, but maybe the FAQ could be a little bit more visible.

By the way I noticed that the FAQ still has Ali's old name TheWizard and doesn't include Kizz as Admin.That one says last updated July 5th 2004.

On the main page links to both Rules and Staff are clearly visible. Both kept up to date. In the CoS Forums Rules each rule is provided with links to related policy statements in The Notice Boards.

That one says last updated July 5th 2004.

On the main page links to both Rules and Staff are clearly visible. Both kept up to date. In the CoS Forums Rules each rule is provided with links to related policy statements in The Notice Boards.

Ok thanks :)

Maybe I then offer a suggestion? In the FAQ you have thevbulletin FAQ. (http://www.cosforums.com/faq.php?faq=vb_faq) which answers a lot of questions, mostly technical. It also has the vbcode etc. Because most people will over look the FAQ, could this then maybe get a more prominent place? I know that there are a lot of sticky threads here in the Wizengamot already, but If you take a look at it, it's very helpful.

I've a suggestion, don't know if it's a good idea or feasable though
What about a thread or notice or generic welcome owl to new members, with recommendations of where to go and descriptions of the sections and pointing out the most important threads? (Ask the staff, Forums rules, search engine, JKR webpage, FAQ, Little questions answered, etc) Like an initial orientation

Instead of creating a thread, that needs to be hunted down, why not just re-structure the introductory owl (assuming it has not been changed since- though I guess not, seeing that the one I received didn't have Kizz as an administrator...:lol: ). Including those information in the introductory owl (which almost every new member reads) would ensure that the new members will have a general idea about things. ;)

I'm pretty sure this isn't a feature, but would it be possible to find all posts by a specific person in one thread?

You can use the "Search this thread" function at the top of the thread. It is located to the right on the first posted message. Just enter the user's name an search. It will give you the closest results.

Edit: I actually just tried this using my own username and it won't work. I think the only thing to do is use the "Find all posts by user" It will give you all their posts and you can scroll through.

Edit: I actually just tried this using my own username and it won't work. I think the only thing to do is use the "Find all posts by user" It will give you all their posts and you can scroll through.

To reduce the effort, you can do one thing else, type in your user name in the advanced search option, then if you remember a key word like-horcrux- then type horcr*, then in the "show result option" check on "posts" to display it as posts. Also if you remember the area, like History of Magic, then that would be even better. It will reduce the number of results even more.

If you don't remember the keyword then leave that blank and follow the rest of the instructions, and it will reduce the number of posts that you have will reckon with. ;)

Would it be possible for forum announcements to show up in Magical Me? I often don't see them unless I go actively looking for them, since they are "hidden" at the top of each individual forum and I rarely browse that way. Having them at the top of the main page like we used to is good as well (as long as the title is updated so we know when it's a new one).

It would also be cool for new, important announcements (since previous log in) to flash up on the screen when you log in, but I suppose that would be extravagant with bandwidth and I know some people never log out.

Kind of a long range suggestion...

The 7th book is coming out...soon.
The 5th movie is also coming out...soon.

With the final movie, this site...umm...well..

Has there been any thought to expanding the forums to other literature? (With the focus on Children's Literature of course.)

Kind of a long range suggestion...

The 7th book is coming out...soon.
The 5th movie is also coming out...soon.

With the final movie, this site...umm...well..

Has there been any thought to expanding the forums to other literature? (With the focus on Children's Literature of course.)

I know this wasn't your point, but I would'nt really class HP as children's literature :shrug:.

Just trying to keep things family friendly...

The admins are still in discussion over what to do when this journey is over. We're torn between wanting to run for the hills screaming "We're free!!"
and wanting to keep things going for others...

The admins are still in discussion over what to do when this journey is over. We're torn between wanting to run for the hills screaming "We're free!!"
and wanting to keep things going for others...
*cough* without wanting to push you to anything, ermm, I guess that after DH, even if you decide to 'run up the hill' to a well deserved freedom, we'll still have a bit of time? I mean, after DH there will be still the discussion of the book, and the five stages of grief for dead theories, etc. :lol: Meaning you won't close up in July, will you? :)

Would it be possible for forum announcements to show up in Magical Me? I often don't see them unless I go actively looking for them, since they are "hidden" at the top of each individual forum and I rarely browse that way. Having them at the top of the main page like we used to is good as well (as long as the title is updated so we know when it's a new one).

It would also be cool for new, important announcements (since previous log in) to flash up on the screen when you log in, but I suppose that would be extravagant with bandwidth and I know some people never log out.


I see you fixed it. Thank you! :D

Meaning you won't close up in July, will you?
:evil:

We'll obviously let everyone know what we decide in due time. I can't imagine we'll close up in July, but I've made a promise never to say never.

:evil:

We'll obviously let everyone know what we decide in due time. I can't imagine we'll close up in July, but I've made a promise never to say never.

See? She just said it twice in one sentence...

Being evasive is a hobby of mine.

Don't know where else to put this comment - love the new look!

Would it be possible to have some sort of system to alert people when somebody quotes one of their posts a bit like the thread subscription thing but more spicific? It's just that a few times now somebody has asked me about something in a post or adds something to it but I've not realised for weeks so the debate just pitters out.

Would it be possible to have some sort of system to alert people when somebody quotes one of their posts a bit like the thread subscription thing but more spicific? It's just that a few times now somebody has asked me about something in a post or adds something to it but I've not realised for weeks so the debate just pitters out.

That would be very useful!

Would it be possible to have a survey of how many poeple think Snape is good and how many think he's bad? Just a survey not disscussion, I know how heated that can get, but I just think that would be interesting, as it is arguably one of the most important questions to be answerd in DH.

What are the chances of setting that up?

Would it be possible to have a survey of how many poeple think Snape is good and how many think he's bad? Just a survey not disscussion, I know how heated that can get, but I just think that would be interesting, as it is arguably one of the most important questions to be answerd in DH.

What are the chances of setting that up?
I'm quite sure there used to be one, shortly before setting up the Snape Triumvirate (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=95326), but I can't find it anymore. I remember that it had choices like:
Hero, (order memeber) with no flaws
Hero (order member) with forgivable flaws
Hero (ordermember) with unforgivable flaws
Evil (Death Eater) with forgivable flaws
Evil (Death Eater) with unforgivable flaws
etc

I don't know if it's gone or it is hiding from my searching skills :lol: I suggest asking the staff. :)


I have a suggestion for the DH cover art thread:

I haven't been able to participate there, and it's already in version 2. Would it make sense to split it in UK and US version so to keep it a bit more followable for members? :)

Would it make sense to split it in UK and US version so to keep it a bit more followable for members? It was considered, but people like to compare the covers to each other; sometimes comments are made in the 'wrong' thread, too. So the Staff felt it best to keep cover art discussions in just the one place for now. :)

It was considered, but people like to compare the covers to each other; sometimes comments are made in the 'wrong' thread, too. So the Staff felt it best to keep cover art discussions in just the one place for now
ok, thanks! It's just that I don't really feel like reading a whole version one but nor do I like to say things that have already been said :)

I'm quite sure there used to be one, shortly before setting up the Snape Triumvirate (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=95326), but I can't find it anymore. I remember that it had choices like:
Hero, (order memeber) with no flaws
Hero (order member) with forgivable flaws
Hero (ordermember) with unforgivable flaws
Evil (Death Eater) with forgivable flaws
Evil (Death Eater) with unforgivable flaws
etc

I don't know if it's gone or it is hiding from my searching skills :lol: I suggest asking the staff. :)




Thanks!

Since the poll had served it's purpose I believe it was deleted.

Would it be possible to have some sort of system to alert people when somebody quotes one of their posts a bit like the thread subscription thing but more spicific? It's just that a few times now somebody has asked me about something in a post or adds something to it but I've not realised for weeks so the debate just pitters out.

I don't know if this was answered but since I didn't see a response on this thread:

What I do is go to Advanced Search, and then in the search area, type in "mugglesrock" (i.e. your username) and then search. That brings up every result where someone has quoted you or used your username in their post. :)

I don't know if this was answered but since I didn't see a response on this thread:

What I do is go to Advanced Search, and then in the search area, type in "mugglesrock" (i.e. your username) and then search. That brings up every result where someone has quoted you or used your username in their post.

Thats a really good idea, I hadn't thought about that, the only problem was I got a lot of posts in which people were saying they weren't convinced about things :( owell

Thats a really good idea, I hadn't thought about that, the only problem was I got a lot of posts in which people were saying they weren't convinced about things :( owell

Oh shoot. :lol: Hm I never get posts which have just the word "muggles" or "rock" in them, and both of those words are very common. Hmm. I'll go check what I get when I search using your username. :)

EDIT: Hm, weird but I got very few results on the first page which were referring to the word 'unconvinced' itself and not your username. But I do think it's easier to have the results narrowed down. I find it very helpful. :D

Would it be possible to have a survey of how many poeple think Snape is good and how many think he's bad? Just a survey not disscussion, I know how heated that can get, but I just think that would be interesting, as it is arguably one of the most important questions to be answerd in DH.

What are the chances of setting that up?
I saved a screencapture of the final Snape Poll, just before the thread was closed. :) I knew someone would ask about this again someday. :lol:

CoS Snape Poll (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v624/sip44/SnapePollOneClosed.jpg)

Edited to Add: It would be wonderful to have another one just before Deathly Hallows comes out to see how many people have switched views or come off the fence. :)

I remember that poll!

Ah, what fun it was. Perhaps we can do one more before DH is released, so we can test the power of our Inner Eye. :)

We're planning a few things along those lines. Patience :)

We're planning a few things along those lines. Patience :)

Thanks - I'm glad! As I say, it would be fun to do it at the last minute as a grand gesture, and let the truth come out later in Deathly Hallows! :evil:

Thanks - I'm glad! As I say, it would be fun to do it at the last minute as a grand gesture, and let the truth come out later in Deathly Hallows! :evil:

I think we all know the truth already :p

I think we all know the truth already :p

Yes, I do. :angel: I'm glad we are on the same page at last. :D

Yes, I do. :angel: I'm glad we are on the same page at last. :D

Feeling increasingly bold as to Snape's loyalty to Dumbledore I changed my signiture this morning. Hopefully I wont have to eat my words in July.

I was hoping to find a really direct quote about not losing faith, but I'm afraid I wasn't ever succesfull with that one, so I picked the next best thing.

I saved a screencapture of the final Snape Poll, just before the thread was closed. :) I knew someone would ask about this again someday. :lol:

CoS Snape Poll (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v624/sip44/SnapePollOneClosed.jpg)

Edited to Add: It would be wonderful to have another one just before Deathly Hallows comes out to see how many people have switched views or come off the fence. :)

That link is not working SIP. :(

That link is not working SIP. :(Works for me.

But can we go find the topic of this thread now?

I have a suggestion... right after Deathly Hallows comes out, and you make the category for it... (like you did for Half-Blood Prince), I think you need to make it password protected. Have the password be a fact from the Deathly Hallows book, so that no one could go into the category unless they read the book?

There was a password for the HBP section, for some time after the release. I imagine it will be the same this time. Staff is working hard to make sure that those who don't want to be spoiled won't be. :)

There was a password for the HBP section, for some time after the release. I imagine it will be the same this time. Staff is working hard to make sure that those who don't want to be spoiled won't be. :)

Ah, yes, I do remember now that there was a password for the HBP section. I forgot that until now.

There was a password for the HBP section, for some time after the release. I imagine it will be the same this time. Staff is working hard to make sure that those who don't want to be spoiled won't be.
Where and when do we find out what it is?

Where and when do we find out what it is?


Probably not until just before the forums go down for the release, or just after.

Where and when do we find out what it is?
The last time, there was a instruction in the Forum description. That you need to enter the password "HBP" to be able to see the Special Forum and discuss the book after you read it. :)

The last time, there was a instruction in the Forum description. That you need to enter the password "HBP" to be able to see the Special Forum and discuss the book after you read it. :)Yes, the whole point was to make it impossible to enter with one click only by mistake. The password was easy enough to find.

I know this prolly won't happen tho I will ask anyway hehe.

Is there any way an area could be added for those of us who are parents to discuss our family? Could also be for talk about siblings ect. both potter and non potter related.

I was thinking you all could conviently call it "The Burrow" seeing as when the books take us there it is mostly about the family.

Suggestion:

Can we subscribe to forum announcements the same way we subscribe to other threads? With the new skins, announcements no longer appear on the main page - you have to actively go into one of the forums, eg History of Magic, to look for them. If "subscribe to this thread" was active, we could get email notifications when Morgoth updates the announcement thread.

Alternatively, you could put it back at the top of the main page, or add it to Magical Me. I hate missing announcements!

Can we subscribe to forum announcements the same way we subscribe to other threads? With the new skins, announcements no longer appear on the main page - you have to actively go into one of the forums, eg History of Magic, to look for them. If "subscribe to this thread" was active, we could get email notifications when Morgoth updates the announcement thread.

Alternatively, you could put it back at the top of the main page, or add it to Magical Me. I hate missing announcements!

Hmm..looks like they took in your suggestion for a link has appeared taking us to the Announcement. I don't know if it is permanent or just for the book mark, but it looks awesome. :clap:

Cool idea with the little banner. :D

Is it possible to move it a bit downwards? You can't use the "Floo Network" link, because it's set over it. :)

Is it possible to move it a bit downwards? You can't use the "Floo Network" link, because it's set over it.


Actually the "Floo Network" link isn't working.

Cool idea with the little banner. :D

Is it possible to move it a bit downwards? You can't use the "Floo Network" link, because it's set over it. :)I never use the Floo Network. :lol:

It's a bit tricky now. When you go to the 'rk' you can still click and open it (until the banner will be moved or removed again). :)

I don't use it much either, I just thought about the one who do. :)

With the DH skins you have the ability to re-modify the width of layout. If you click the <> button next to the two little skin icons at the top of the page you can adjust it. This way the banner can be removed from covering the Floo Network.

With the DH skins you have the ability to re-modify the width of lay out. If you click the <> button next to the two little skin icons at the top of the page you can adjust it. This way the banner can be removed from covering the Floo Network.

Even if you do that Hes the Link doesn't work, though it appears when you click to change the Forum or a thread...but then it is instantly covered by the bookmark.

Even if you do that Hes the Link doesn't work, though it appears when you click to change the Forum or a thread...but then it is instantly covered by the bookmark.

For me when I use the middle and smallest sizes, the link does work. Not with the biggest size though.

We seem to be aware of the issue now :)

Personally I think the buttons in the upper left hand corner are easier anyway so the book mark banner more than makes up for it.

Personally I think the buttons in the upper left hand corner are easier anyway so the book mark banner more than makes up for it.
I don't understand what you mean by that.

Edit: found out that moving the banner would effect other styles, so forget about the suggestion.
Sorry for the trouble I caused.

Hmm..looks like they took in your suggestion for a link has appeared taking us to the Announcement. I don't know if it is permanent or just for the book mark, but it looks awesome.
Excellent! It even shows up on all the pages! Now there's no excuse for missing an announcement!

How about a thread for: Was Anyone at Godric's Hollow Besides Snape? It's hard to have a discussion about any other possibilities.

Morality has become a big issue in this power hungry world. Why not use the forums which has such a massive influence on the large number of teenagers!

What I am suggesting is that their should be a thread in Flourish and Blott's in which readers can poat sayings which can be posted on the top of the forums!

The sayings should be related to Harry potter terminology.
For eg: There is no use crying over spilt potion. (potion is used by JKR instead of milk) This will enhance creativity and give new dimension to the forums!

How about a thread for: Was Anyone at Godric's Hollow Besides Snape? It's hard to have a discussion about any other possibilities.
Good idea! http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y42/thereal_anabel/smilies/smilie_SeverusSnape3.gif

We've already got two threads on it - I'm not really convinced we need a thirth (sorry sometimes Indy's lisp comes out :lol: )

What about a separate thread for "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow" then? http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y42/thereal_anabel/smilies/smilie_SeverusSnape3.gif

On the Donation (http://www.cosforums.com/donate.php?) page we still have it saying over 20000 members...you might like to update it. ;)

Hey I didn't get response to my suggestion. It's the last post on page 33

The sayings should be related to Harry potter terminology.Thanks for the suggestion.

We already have something similar to your suggestion in a thread inside the Common Room forum: Favourite/Wisest Quotes (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=103026)

And do we have some name for the members of the Forums....
For eg: Forumers or Cosers or any other terminology!

And do we have some name for the members of the Forums....
For eg: Forumers or Cosers or any other terminology!

I believe that the terms are Muggles for visitors to the site , Students for members
of CoS and for Hogsmeade Students :hmm: I'll have to get back to you on that one ? :lol:

twins:p

I believe that the terms are Muggles for visitors to the site , Students for members
of CoS and for Hogsmeade Students :hmm: I'll have to get back to you on that one ? :lol:

twins:p:lol: Hogsmeade Students = Hogsmeadites.

For more info on member titles:
Post/Year List of Chamber of Secrets (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=22992)

Hogsmeade Students = Hogsmeadites.
Sorry, this is offtopic but - I always say something odd like Hogsmeadeanites or Hogsmeaders :lol:.

I like the name. I was aware of the classification as muggles and students, but while talking among other members, I can now say, we Hogsmeadites.

I like the name. I was aware of the classification as muggles and students, but while talking among other members, I can now say, we Hogsmeadites.I'm sorry, but Hogsmeadites are not CoS members in general. They are people who have got personal Hogsmeade admission from the staff. They are recognized by their user names in italics. And almost all of them also have an avatar.

Isn't it Hogsmeadians anyway? :shrug: Oh well...

Not really on topic anymore, are we? :yuhup:

I would prefer Hogsmedians, but maybe we'd better leave that to native English speakers to decide.:lol:

And now back on topic, folks.

I have suggestion to make about the names of the newly-split "____ was at Godric's Hollow" threads. The thread about Pettigrew being present there is called "Assuming Peter Pettigrew was at Godric's Hollow", whereas the Snape one is called "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow the night Lily and James died?". This is a very strange difference, since there has been quite a lot of grief about Snape discussion in the past here at CoS. I'm getting a little worried for the longevity of the "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow?" thread with the name it currently has. I was wondering if the Snape thread could be changed to "Assuming Severus Snape was at Godric's Hollow". This would make both GH threads equal and there would be less tension, and the thread might last longer.

I'm getting a little worried for the longevity of the "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow?" thread with the name it currently has. I was wondering if the Snape thread could be changed to "Assuming Severus Snape was at Godric's Hollow". This would make both GH threads equal and there would be less tension, and the thread might last longer.
I have the same concern over thread longevity. And thread quality as well actually because it tends to get mired down in defending the same points repeatedly. Some of us who have been on the Godric's Hollow threads for a while would love the chance to escape the circularity and have a chance to flesh out our ideas a bit more.

I have suggestion to make about the names of the newly-split "____ was at Godric's Hollow" threads. The thread about Pettigrew being present there is called "Assuming Peter Pettigrew was at Godric's Hollow", whereas the Snape one is called "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow the night Lily and James died?". This is a very strange difference, since there has been quite a lot of grief about Snape discussion in the past here at CoS. I'm getting a little worried for the longevity of the "Was Severus Snape at Godric's Hollow?" thread with the name it currently has. I was wondering if the Snape thread could be changed to "Assuming Severus Snape was at Godric's Hollow". This would make both GH threads equal and there would be less tension, and the thread might last longer.


I think "Was Snape there?" is a very valid question, since there is less evidence to connect him to Godric's Hollow than in the case of Peter, who had Voldemort's robe and wand in his possession. Changing it to "assuming" would prevent discussion of whether he was actually there. Perhaps we should change the Pettigrew thread to "Was Pettigrew at Godric's Hollow"? I think that would be better.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ComicBookWorm
How about a thread for: Was Anyone at Godric's Hollow Besides Snape? It's hard to have a discussion about any other possibilities.
Good idea!
I think "Was Snape there?" is a very valid question, since there is less evidence to connect him to Godric's Hollow than in the case of Peter, who had Voldemort's robe and wand in his possession. Changing it to "assuming" would prevent discussion of whether he was actually there. Perhaps we should change the Pettigrew thread to "Was Pettigrew at Godric's Hollow"? I think that would be better.

I don't post on any of the Godric's Hollow threads, and I have no intention to unless we get more information before DH.

But I was surprised to see three different threads on Godric's Hollow suddenly pop up, when we used to have only one.

As an outsider to all three threads, I would observe that if there are going to have multiple (*3*) threads, it's hardly fair that one remains a heated debate, while the other two cruise on peacefully in their rampant speculation.

We have little enough canon about Godric's Hollow as it is, though the Peter Pettigrew thread may have the most validity.

However, on the Snape thread, at least there is a connection between Snape's remorse, the Prophecy, and his anger and longing for revenge towards Sirius in the Shack, and a possible life-debt with James. That is why there is the question of him being there. He was also Dumbledore's spy at that time, and put his life at "great risk" and we don't know what that means, exactly.

We also have canon in OotP that the SK can give someone a piece of paper with the address on it, and they can show it to someone else. Yet for some reason, that is still up for constant debate on a daily basis, and theories based on that are bogged down.

Technically we can't "assume" Snape was there, though we could "imagine" if he was there, or think "what if" Snape was there - the "implications" so to speak.

So I suggest instead of making people "prove" that he was there, which stops the discussion cold in it's tracks, why not just let it be totally speculative? Maybe you should call it

"The Implications of Snape at Godric's Hollow."

No one can prove that Snape wasn't there. No one knows where Snape was that night, though he tells Bella he was at Hogwarts, but that could be a lie.

The third thread about "Who else besides Snape and Peter?" has the least canon, in my opinion, and you could throw out almost anyone's name and it would stick. So it's just fun and games with little debate.

I could write that Ludo Bagman was there, or that All the Hogwarts Elves were under the bed, or that Mrs. Figg was living in the attic. Who could prove me right or wrong? I could write that a friendly centaur was passing by and saved Harry, and no one would care.

I believe there is a way to name these threads to allow creative theories without "proving" what can only be speculative on all three.

Instead of saying "Was Snape There," just change it to "What if Snape was there." :)

Thank you to all for your suggestions. The issue is now being discussed by the staff. In the meantime, I suggest that everyone is patient and do not start blaming each other for thread closures/openings/logistics. Thanks.

Right, we'll say 'What if Snape was at Godric's Hollow' and that thread can be found in DS - http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=104894 .

The other two we'll keep going for now and see that goes. But I don't see the need for three threads on the subject either considering the lack of available information. But so be it. Discuss away.

I've noticed that red words have been added to comments to reinforce the idea that people are expressing their own opinions. Everything we post is our own opinion. The exceptions would be when we directly quote canon and when we paraphrase canon (although we can innocently and accidentally goof). If we have to add IMO or other more extensive qualifiers to every sentence it will quickly become cumbersome. Personally, I think that an assumption that what we post is usually our own opinion would be just as effective.

The red words are being added as an experiment in the Snape threads because too many people were expressing their opinions as though they were fact - which was adding to the already volatile situation in those threads. It may or may not be staying. In the meantime, if people would take care to make sure it is clear what in their posts is opinion vs canon, such editing will be unnecessary.

I've noticed that red words have been added to comments to reinforce the idea that people are expressing their own opinions. Everything we post is our own opinion. The exceptions would be when we directly quote canon and when we paraphrase canon (although we can innocently and accidentally goof). If we have to add IMO or other more extensive qualifiers to every sentence it will quickly become cumbersome. Personally, I think that an assumption that what we post is usually our own opinion would be just as effective.

ADMIN FINAL WORD:
People have shown us they cannot make this assumption, thus the qualifiers are needed. If the added word or two means the difference between a thread staying open or closing then I'm all for the extra words. End of discussion.

I really would appreciate a function that would inform you when someone answered to you, at least when someone is quoting you. Is there a possibility to add a function like that?

Doesn't the email notification do that?

BTW, what's this about red writing in the Snape threads? I just had a look through a few of them and didn't see anything red...)

Doesn't the email notification do that?

Yes, it should. :shrug: It's not as specific as to notify you when someone quoted you though. No idea whether this is possible anyway.

I really would appreciate a function that would inform you when someone answered to you, at least when someone is quoting you. Is there a possibility to add a function like that?

You could always just do a search for your name. It'll come up with every time you've been quoted on the boards as well as any time a member has mentioned your name.

You could always just do a search for your name. It'll come up with every time you've been quoted on the boards as well as any time a member has mentioned your name.

When I search with my username, I get a million of posts in which I haven't been quoted. :rotfl:

Edit- I say that only to point out that it isn't practical for many users. ;)

Really? That's rather mysterious.

Er...

:lol:

When I search with my username, I get a million of posts in which I haven't been quoted. :rotfl:

Edit- I say that only to point out that it isn't practical for many users. ;)

No, just not practical for members with unoriginal names ;)

Doesn't the email notification do that?




Yes, it should. :shrug: It's not as specific as to notify you when someone quoted you though. No idea whether this is possible anyway.

You could always just do a search for your name. It'll come up with every time you've been quoted on the boards as well as any time a member has mentioned your name.

Thanks for your response.I know about the email notification, but it isn`t very handy for those who post in many threads. And I found it very unpolite founding someone quote you days later because I can`t read all the threads every day where I posted once. Therefore my question. But if there isn`t a possipility for that, I have to live without. Thanks guys.

No, just not practical for members with unoriginal names

I think Mysterious is an original name!

I think what he is trying to say, is that it's hardly practisable when someone has a name like mysterious, which is proper English and can be used in posts, not like a name like "Picko" which is a made up name. Searching for post where "mysterious" appears in also gives you results where people post about something mysterious in their post, what makes it harder to find your own posts then.

When I search with my username, I get a million of posts in which I haven't been quoted.

Yeah when I get that I get a lot of people saying they're not convinced about something
Anyway...

When I search with my username, I get a million of posts in which I haven't been quoted. :rotfl:

Edit- I say that only to point out that it isn't practical for many users. ;)

Google is not very up-to-date with the results but you could always try something like this (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=site%3Acosforums.com+%22Originally+Posted +by+mysterious%22+&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&client=firefox-a) for example.

Or you could use the forum search with the keyword: *Originally Posted by mysterious* (including the stars)

I should remind you that the latter is quite server intensive.


Eitherway, I have that suggestion on my to-do list. Dont have the time for it right now I'm afraid.

Well, one possible workaround would be if the search is (or could be) case sensitive and our mysterious consented to be re-christened as Mysterious.

(Smacking with a champagne bottle is not required.) :lol:

Well, one possible workaround would be if the search is (or could be) case sensitive and our mysterious consented to be re-christened as Mysterious.

That does look like a very simple solution to the problem! Very few people actually begin a sentence with "Mysterious" or "Unconvinced", so this should end the confusion!

Well, one possible workaround would be if the search is (or could be) case sensitive and our mysterious consented to be re-christened as Mysterious.


It doesn't work for me as of right now. If I search using 'Mugglesrock' then even the posts that have quotes from my actual username ('mugglesrock') show up in the results. So I don't think capitalization is the solution. :(

It doesn't work for me as of right now. If I search using 'Mugglesrock' then even the posts that have quotes from my actual username ('mugglesrock') show up in the results. So I don't think capitalization is the solution.


It would be if Ali changed the search settings to make them case sensitive. :)

Ali has put the feature on his to-do pile. For now, thats the best he can manage as he's very busy. So lets leave it at that for now :)

I'm not sure this is the right thread to bring this up, but I'll try here. There's something I just noticed about "The Library" (subarea of F&B for putting completed stories). That is, stories submitted there don't show up in one's profile, unlike what happens for stories on the main F&B forum.

If one looks (for example) at my profile, the stories I have posted at F&B show up ("Some One-Shot Stories", "A Tangled Web", "Unintended Consequences 1 and 2").

However, I also have a story, "The Long Night", in the Library, and it does not show up. It would be nice if it still did. :)

I'm not sure if this has been suggested but is there any way the smiley options can be added in the Quick Reply table along with the given features?

I'm not sure this is the right thread to bring this up, but I'll try here. There's something I just noticed about "The Library" (subarea of F&B for putting completed stories). That is, stories submitted there don't show up in one's profile, unlike what happens for stories on the main F&B forum.

If one looks (for example) at my profile, the stories I have posted at F&B show up ("Some One-Shot Stories", "A Tangled Web", "Unintended Consequences 1 and 2").

However, I also have a story, "The Long Night", in the Library, and it does not show up. It would be nice if it still did. :)
I never noticed that! If I may, I would like to second that plea. ;)

I think that the COS forums should have an idea board. A place for the populace to tell the staff theer ideas. Therfore I think since this has no other purpose than to sit here I make this a thread for people to tell the staff there Idea's. Here are some of mine.

The forums needs a super blankie. what is that you might ask. Well a super blankie is a person ( or a group of people) that shows the new people around for a day or so. They could be rewarded by mabey haveing 3 counts added to there post counter for one person helped. they would only stay there for a week and then they would be done. To tell the new people about this in the first owl that they recive ( whic isn't actually that helpfull in showing around) it could say that if you want a super blankie you should join this public group for a week to get one. It would also explain what a super blankie is. Then if they wanted one they could go there and get one. then for a week that that person is online he/she can ask any question at any time of there super blankie and get a response which is much easyer than going to the little questions answered board which isn't very helpful either.

The forums needs a super blankie. what is that you might ask. Well a super blankie is a person ( or a group of people) that shows the new people around for a day or so. They could be rewarded by mabey haveing 3 counts added to there post counter for one person helped. they would only stay there for a week and then they would be done. To tell the new people about this in the first owl that they recive ( whic isn't actually that helpfull in showing around) it could say that if you want a super blankie you should join this public group for a week to get one. It would also explain what a super blankie is. Then if they wanted one they could go there and get one. then for a week that that person is online he/she can ask any question at any time of there super blankie and get a response which is much easyer than going to the little questions answered board which isn't very helpful either.

I think a guard for the new members is a good idea. I would have appreciated it when I was new. In my opinion it would be helpful if the new member and the guard speek the same language because for a lot of people here English is the second language and some of the rules could be easier to understand if explained in their own language.
But I don`t think there is any need for adding something to the post count. And if the staff follow this idea, I would be interested in beeing a guard because I can remember how overwhelming this huge forum was when I was new.

The idea is sound on paper, but would be a logistical nightmare this close to Book 7. We're going to get an average of about 1,000 new members per day for the first few weeks post-release. For HBP we hit 3,000 per day over a 10 day period, which led to the site slowing down or collapsing altogether. [We're hoping to avoid that this time with a new server we're close to acquiring]

It might be worth exploring this idea after DH, when we all have a bit more time on our hands. I could see it working in principle with a few add-on ideas and it would certainly help give new members a softer introduction to CoS, but not right now as we're tied into the book release.

I didn`t thought about the book release, but you`re right it isn`t manageable with so many Newbies. I`m glad the idea is considered to be helpful after the big storm.

Then if they wanted one they could go there and get one. then for a week that that person is online he/she can ask any question at any time of there super blankie and get a response which is much easyer than going to the little questions answered board which isn't very helpful either.
The Little Questions Answered v11 (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=104860) thread is for Harry Potter related questions and not general questions though. :)

In regards to the newbie theme - we do have the Questions From new Members (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=105679) thread now which makes things a little easier for new people. :)

then for a week that that person is online he/she can ask any question at any time of there super blankie and get a response which is much easyer than going to the little questions answered board which isn't very helpful either.

Newbies can always check out the shiny Questions from New Members (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=105679) thread, which is stickied in the Great Hall, for any questions they have about the boards. :)

EDIT: Sorry IMissPadfoot, didn't notice you there. :blush:

The Little Questions Answered v11 (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=104860) thread is for Harry Potter related questions and not general questions though. :)
see what I mean you could help new members get this ( please exscuse my faux pa I'm still figureing this out. I could have really used a super blankie)

see what I mean you could help new members get this ( please exscuse my faux pa I'm still figureing this out. I could have really used a super blankie)
Helping to get what? :shrug:

Anyway, it helps a lot of time to take a look at the opening post of a thread to see that it's about and to read the last few pages to see where the debate is going at the moment.

Helping to get what? :shrug:

Anyway, it helps a lot of time to take a look at the opening post of a thread to see that it's about and to read the last few pages to see where the debate is going at the moment.

Helping to find the forum rules and helpful threads. I for instance discovered the Great Hall after two month, I think.

I can't remember mine, but isn't that in the owl everyone gets when they register? If not, should it be amended for that purpose?

Alright, now, I know I shall be bombarded with owls full of Bubotuber pus for suggesting this, but:

Now, I am one of those that enjoy the occasional visit into the Leaky Cauldron, but I mostly stay to the Harry Potter-themed areas. I greatly enjoy the Leaky Cauldron, for it allows one to get away from all the Harry Potter talk. However, to me it is becoming a little overwhelming. Every time I come to the website, the 'Latest Discussion' area is full of Leaky Cauldron threads. To me, this is greatly frustrating, since it is a Harry Potter forum. I tremendously like what you have done with the DoIMC - where the discussion continues, but it does not show up on the 'Latest Discussion' area. Therefore, I suggest the same thing for the Leaky Cauldron: since it is not related to Harry Potter, the 'Latest Discussion' area should be reserved solely for Harry Potter threads (those in the DoIMC are able to continue discussions without the threads showing up on the 'Latest Discussion' board, so I don't see why those in Leaky can't do so).

I also suggest that the post count be turned off in the Leaky Cauldron. The administration obviously does not think it 'important' enough to be one of the qualifying areas for Hogsmeade. Instead, to me, the Leaky Cauldron is mostly there to just, simply, chat. Therefore, I do not think that people should be allowed to 'boost' their post count by just talking about every day things. It is necessary to have one of these places in a themed-forum, but it simply does not make sense to me. People can grow from a first year to a Hogwart's Graduate by just talking about American Idol, etc. This is a Harry Potter forum, and if you are here for non-Harry Potter discussion, why even be here? Like I said, it is more like the Quidditch Pitch or some Hogsmeade areas - a place just to chat. I think that the Harry Potter forum should promote Harry Potter discussion, but we are also promoting random discussion by counting the posts made in Leaky.

Like I said earlier, though: I enjoy the Leaky Cauldron very much, but it's 'value' needs to be toned down, in my opinion.

And, for my final suggestion, we must look at this:
All student comments on the running of this magical community are to be logged here. A goblin or professor will attend to you shortly.
Now, where are the goblins?

And, now, I shall be running away from those thousands of angry users.

Well... I am not a goblin but I can still answer your question. :lol:

You make some interesting points. I will present your suggestions to staff and we will discuss the possibilities.

I haven't read all the posts so I don't know if something like this has been suggested before, but a lot of hard work goes into the flourish and blotts fan fiction and poetry part of the board.
There are many extremley good fics there as well. But, anyway I'm rambling. My suggestion is to basically, recognise this work with a monthly competition to find the best fan fic of the month.
Basically people would mention their favourite fics and nominate them. Then a group of selected people would make a shortlist and decide out of all of them which one is the best and why.

If it's too much to do once a month, you could do a yearly awards thing, with different catergories. I don't know if you do it or not but it's a suggestion.

Thanks!

I know it's different from the type of awards you're describing, but we do have a fanfiction contest. It's a weekly contest, and every week is separate. Right now, we are also planning a special contest for the forum downtime when DH comes out.

This thread is for entries only:
Entries thread: cos writing contest v3 (http://cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=102533)

This thread has the history, rules and comments for the contest:
cos writing contest v.6 (http://cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=102532)

I hope you join us, we love when new people enter :D.

I haven't read all the posts so I don't know if something like this has been suggested before, but a lot of hard work goes into the flourish and blotts fan fiction and poetry part of the board.
There are many extremley good fics there as well. But, anyway I'm rambling. My suggestion is to basically, recognise this work with a monthly competition to find the best fan fic of the month.
Basically people would mention their favourite fics and nominate them. Then a group of selected people would make a shortlist and decide out of all of them which one is the best and why.

If it's too much to do once a month, you could do a yearly awards thing, with different catergories. I don't know if you do it or not but it's a suggestion.

Thanks!

Thank you for the suggestion. It will be reviewed :D

There are many extremley good fics there as well.

:agree:

This has probably been suggested numerous times, but how about password-protected common rooms? We do the 100+ question psychological house-test, which then puts us in one of the houses here. If we have, say, 64 for Gryffindor and 64 for Slytherin, we could email what our personalities are like to new members of staff - the Sorting Hat Troupe - who choose based on what we've told them. (I got 86 ravenclaw (or 84) then 63 Hufflepuff. Then, we can simply get to know the others in our house in our common room, with a background relative to our house's common room (Gryffindor tower's room, the dungeon from CoS, etc). We could hold inter-house competitions, ranging from playing arcade games to word anagrams and Staying-Up tournaments. It could be a lot of fun. We could have nonsense topics there (so maybe there should be no postcount) and just enjoy ourselves in our common room. We should leave a record of our results with the Sorting Hat staff, however, so if we find we don't fit in with our first common room - for example, Ravenclaw, 80+, we could then move to our next in the list, if the staff agree - Hufflepuff, 63.

This has probably been suggested numerous times, but how about password-protected common rooms? We do the 100+ question psychological house-test, which then puts us in one of the houses here. If we have, say, 64 for Gryffindor and 64 for Slytherin, we could email what our personalities are like to new members of staff - the Sorting Hat Troupe - who choose based on what we've told them. (I got 86 ravenclaw (or 84) then 63 Hufflepuff. Then, we can simply get to know the others in our house in our common room, with a background relative to our house's common room (Gryffindor tower's room, the dungeon from CoS, etc). We could hold inter-house competitions, ranging from playing arcade games to word anagrams and Staying-Up tournaments. It could be a lot of fun. We could have nonsense topics there (so maybe there should be no postcount) and just enjoy ourselves in our common room. We should leave a record of our results with the Sorting Hat staff, however, so if we find we don't fit in with our first common room - for example, Ravenclaw, 80+, we could then move to our next in the list, if the staff agree - Hufflepuff, 63.

You're right, this has come up quite a few times. We made the decision against this because we feel the various houses might start getting hostile with each other. Thanks for your suggestion though :)

Ah, right. It's a shame, but I understand how hostility could start increasing and become a huge problem. Do you think people will probably still get hostile towards each other if there aren't any inter-house competitions?

Ah, right. It's a shame, but I understand how hostility could start increasing and become a huge problem. Do you think people will probably still get hostile towards each other if there aren't any inter-house competitions?

It would start with a comment made by one person and snowball from there. Competitions wouldn't matter :)

I just noticed that with all of the new members a lot of them are unaware of the signature size rule. Maybe you might want to add that to one of the announcements? :shrug:

I just noticed that with all of the new members a lot of them are unaware of the signature size rule. Maybe you might want to add that to one of the announcements?It's not much more than usual actually. :)

It's not much more than usual actually. :)

Hm, maybe I'm just noticing it more. Ok, ty :)

I have a Leaky Cauldron suggestion. I was wondering if it might be better to have a thread to review all recently released movies in, rather than opening a new thread to talk about each individual movie?

I have a Leaky Cauldron suggestion. I was wondering if it might be better to have a thread to review all recently released movies in, rather than opening a new thread to talk about each individual movie?

Perhaps some of the major releaes would still deserve their own thread but that would certainly keep the forum tidier.

I suppose it would get a bit repetitive. I think I've just watched way too many movies this summer and I feel a bit apprehensive about opening a new thread for every one of them.

I think I've just watched way too many movies this summer and I feel a bit apprehensive about opening a new thread for every one of them.If you don't want to discuss all new movies in-depth you might want to share your opinion in What movie did you see? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=85767&highlight=movie)


Thank you both for the suggestion! We have discussed it among staff, but - while agreeing that something to keep the areas more tidy is always appreciated - want to leave it as it is for now. A general exchange about new movies can be made in the thread provided, deeper discussion should stay in a thread for its own.

I am not sure if this is the right place to post this, but I don't see anywhere else.

I would like to suggest that what JKR has said in her various interviews about the characters and events post DH, be put together in an outline and put under a menu item on the main page. I think that organizing this information and having it together in one place would be appreciated by all Harry Potter fans.

As she is likely to say more on her upcoming US tour, having this done soon would be useful and might even prevent her from being asked some of the same questions over and over.

That would be a lot of work for us to organize and maintain. However, something similar does exist. You may enjoy exploring Accio Quote! (http://www.accio-quote.org/). :)

What MadMagic said. But we do have a thread where some of the most frequently brought up questions are answered and links given to the most important sources of information.
Frequently Asked Harry Potter Questions (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=95091)

Hey! I've noticed that although DH spoilers stay inside their designated area for the most part, the names of the threads can display spoilers, and when these appear on the 'recent posts' on thr home page, there's no password to prevent someone from seeing it. For example, I looked and noticed that the most recent post was from a Deathly Hallows thread titled "so and so's Death", except with an actual name. If something can be done about this, I think it should be done.

The DH titles came back to the 'latest post' and other areas some days ago, also the DH forum is no longer password protected. Signatures containing spoilers are allowed as well now. This happened according to CoS's phased shut down of the Spoiler Policy. More information about this are to find here (http://www.cosforums.com/announcement.php?f=2). :)

Hello, staff

My suggestion is a definitive way of knowing that someone is quoting one of your posts, like an alert of some kind. Sometimes, I forget to check threads and therefore I neglect to reply to somebody's rebuttal right away. So is there any way of doing this and if there was, is there a chance of it?

You could always subscribe to the thread and see when a post is made via email. Currently, there is no other way to notify you.

I good tip I picked up for when you want to who has quoted you is to search your name in the advanced (in the key word search rather than the user name search), that brings up all the posts which you were quoted in.

There is a vBulletin plugin called "Who Quoted Me?" created by an unofficial source. I think it would be a useful feature too.

I've got a suggestion to do with Hogsmeade: at the moment there are several different ways of finding out which posts you have in the qualifying areas but none of them are simple and few of them are up-to-date. In every user's profile there is a "Find all posts by user" and "find all theads by user" option - could there be a "Find all Hogsmeade qualifying posts by user" option, as well?

Thanks in advance.

There is a quicker and easier way to find your own post count towards Hogsmeade. Every member can use this function to search out their own qualifying posts. It only works for looking up your own posts, and not other members, though. Give it a whirl.
Click on your Username
Click View User Profile
In the address bar add the following at the end of the url: &do=hcounter
Hit EnterThis leads you to a page that lists the number of your qualifying posts and provides a link to them.

For example: IchLiebeGeorge has 198 Hogsmeade qualifying posts -- (find posts)

I've got a suggestion to do with Hogsmeade: at the moment there are several different ways of finding out which posts you have in the qualifying areas but none of them are simple and few of them are up-to-date. In every user's profile there is a "Find all posts by user" and "find all theads by user" option - could there be a "Find all Hogsmeade qualifying posts by user" option, as well?

Thanks in advance.

The quote above from Kingwidgit is the best way to search :). I found that in the "Tutorial: Searching for Qualifying Posts (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=84928)" thread. For future reference that thread or the Comments on: Hogsmeade (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=66105) are better threads for Hogsmeade-related questions :).

Hope this helps!

Thanks!

And cool, I've just tried that, and apparently I have 327 qualifying posts - yay!

Greetings CoS Forums Staff. Good day? Anyways, i feel when im on these forums that its just to quiet. Maybe you can put on some original Harry Potter music from all of the films? That'd be great. And just to make sure im not the only one who thinks this, does anyone agree at all?

:welcome: You can actually make suggestions here: Comments on: Forum Suggestions (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=67415)

Thank you for this suggestion. Please don't forget toSearch (http://www.cosforums.com/search.php) before posting :D

Sorry 'bout that. Well, hope they do do music. more cool

Thanks for the suggestion Scoundroul, and while music would be a nice touch we're constantly fighting the bandwidth bug. Music would be an unnecessary drain of bandwidth, which means we wont be doing it.

I'm hoping this is the right place to suggest this...probably is!

I was just thinking that maybe in the fiction section (non HP related) that a Book Club thread or sub forum could be created? It struck me that obviously the majority of people on here have read the Harry Potter books (I'm saying majority just in case someone hasn't & has only watched the movies!). Also there seems to be a lot of people who are interested in other books. I was just thinking that it would be an interesting way of finding more books to read and discuss in that one area - we could have a different book every month or so to read and then discuss.

I don't know what ye think or if anyone has suggested it before! hope ye like the idea though!

^I think MarieBeth83 has a good idea! It would be a good idea to do a Book Club in the Fiction section. Though it would probably have to be a book that would interest most ages and be appropriate, as I've noticed we have some quite young members on the board. It would also probably be best to read books that each person can read and understand and that don't offend a certain group. But there are lots of books out there to choose from, I think it could work really well.

Also, I realize it could be hard to do, but having a sound clip button might be cool. I noticed that you can upload soundclips on my Facebook wall, and I figured it might be something that could work here too. :) Maybe.. Maybe it's a stupid idea, but it's a thought! ;)

I was just thinking that maybe in the fiction section (non HP related) that a Book Club thread or sub forum could be created? It struck me that obviously the majority of people on here have read the Harry Potter books (I'm saying majority just in case someone hasn't & has only watched the movies!). Also there seems to be a lot of people who are interested in other books. I was just thinking that it would be an interesting way of finding more books to read and discuss in that one area - we could have a different book every month or so to read and then discuss.

I'm fine with it. I sent you an owl about logistics.

Would it be possible to have a general questions thread in the Spirit Division for little questions to people of other faiths? Nothing ground breaking just little things a bit like the questions for Americans and British in the Great Hall.

Would it be possible to have a general questions thread in the Spirit Division for little questions to people of other faiths? Nothing ground breaking just little things a bit like the questions for Americans and British in the Great Hall.Your question is forwarded to the staff area.

Your question is forwarded to the staff area.

Ok thanks

It would be great to have a 'Daily Prophet' in the forum. The members can write stories and articles about happenings in their part of the world. This would facilitate: Interaction between the members and thus encouraging more cultural exchange. It can be fashioned like the 'letters to the editor'. This offers more scope than the Department of International Magical Co-operation.

I would also suggest that the posts in Flourish and Blotts be counted in the posts tally. This would increase the frequency of feedbacks.

Im new here, so I don't know if there is one [if there is, please tell me where] but we need a Harry&Ginny forum ;)

~WendyPotter

Im new here, so I don't know if there is one [if there is, please tell me where] but we need a Harry&Ginny forum ;)

~WendyPotter

There's one you can visit here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=109063). :)

There's one you can visit here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=109063). :)

Hey! Thanx ;) Nice to see you here too.

~WendyPotter

It would be great to have a 'Daily Prophet' in the forum. The members can write stories and articles about happenings in their part of the world. This would facilitate: Interaction between the members and thus encouraging more cultural exchange. It can be fashioned like the 'letters to the editor'. This offers more scope than the Department of International Magical Co-operation.

I would also suggest that the posts in Flourish and Blotts be counted in the posts tally. This would increase the frequency of feedbacks.

Didn't get the reply,so I am posting this again.

I'm sorry, but you can't expect a reply within two hours. Patience is not a sin. :)

Is it possible to post the Years/Usertitles - Post Count list? I am always looking it up and can never seem to locate it without a search, and it's one of those things that would be very useful to have handy as I can never remember exactly how and where I found it.

Many thanks!

Is it possible to post the Years/Usertitles - Post Count list? I am always looking it up and can never seem to locate it without a search, and it's one of those things that would be very useful to have handy as I can never remember exactly how and where I found it.

Many thanks!
If you look under the Notice Board, in the same Forum section as this, about second from the bottom is a thread titled Post / Year List, which contains the info you're looking for. Hope this helps!!

Or here's the link (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=22992)

Awesome -- thanks, guys. :tu:

I'm sorry, but you can't expect a reply within two hours. Patience is not a sin. :)

Sorry, but I think you may have misinterpreted my post:blush:...I was posting it again so that it didn't get unnoticed, as there were couple of posts after mine...

Anyway, Happy New Year, everyone and let me know your feedback...Cheers, goodday:)

You guys have far too many rules. I know you're a big forum and all, but lighten up, will you? I mean, you have to earn the privelage of having an avatar? Whaaat? Whatever, I'm done with this site.

Our rules are designed to ensure that pleasant intelligent discussion can happen here. Avatars and Hogsmeade membership are a reward for consistent contribution to the forums.

Best of luck to you.

I had a question/suggestion: is it possible to relocate Legillimency studies to the main Harry Potter forums area? I don't know precisely the terms I need to use for this -- what I mean is, when I sign in, I can't see Legillimency Studies from the main are -- only if I click on Harry Potter (which I only recently realized was a hyperlink to the larger area). I missed a lot of discussion which I inadvertently posted in because someone would link to a thread there. I think that, especially with all of the books out, it is one of the areas that probably gets a lot of traffic within the HP areas.

Thanks for the consideration!

I would like to propose that there be some sort of "chit-chat" forum. A place where members could talk about things that aren't quite important enough for the ministry of magic forums and don't fit into the specific categories under the burrow or diagon alley.
There could be threads on relationship stuff, weird experiences, school, your job, cars, a venting thread, a birthday thread, a boasting thread, do you sing in the shower,.... basically anything and everything under the sun that doesn't fit into one of the provided categories. i.e. - "chit-chat"

Hi.

We have the Fun & Games (http://www.cosforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=172) forum that you can 'chat' with members in a much less serious capacity if you like. We also have Diagon Alley (http://www.cosforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=12) and The Burrow (http://www.cosforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=174) where various off-topic, but interesting discussions can be found. We don't permit personal issue threads such as relationship advice or medical advice purely for safety reasons.

Thanks :)

Not so much a suggestion but an observation here. I've noticed since the revised post DH format has been up that some of the admins have been extremely strict on the matter of keeping threads on topic, rigidly so in some cases. This seems to be most apparent in the movie actor / character type threads where any discussion that isn't strictly in relation to the actor and how they go about performing their role is almost instantly jumped on. These aren't the only threads where this rigidity is apparent though.

While I can appreciate the admins not wishing to allow the forums to degenerate into aggravating off topic chat rooms I am concerned that the current level of rigidity in the interpretation of topics is actually driving out the enjoyment of the discussions and is, in some instances, driving people away.

While I'm not for a moment advocating open slather I would suggest that a slightly more relaxed attitude wouldn't do any harm. After all the books are over now (barring the Scottish book) and most of the major issues should be pretty well resolved.

How about another explanation thread? "Why did my postcount drop?" Or maybe adding it to the FAQs thread, so that ones could link to it?

And then I wonder why some threads are still kept as important when they are not up to date for months. The week without Snape week was last year and he's back again, so why still keeping those threads?

How about a seperate forum for each charector. That way all the charector threads arn't all jumbled together. Other than that I think whoever created the CoS forums didn't leave anything out.

How about a seperate forum for each charector. That way all the charector threads arn't all jumbled together. Other than that I think whoever created the CoS forums didn't leave anything out.

Hello PureBloodGirl :wave:

Have you looked in this area ? Harry Potter>The Stone > Legilimency Studies This is a whole area dedicated to the study of each of the HP characters I think you'll find something in there to your liking ;)

twins:p

the forum suggestion looks cool good job keep it up :)

According to the zero tolerance policy members who don't change their sigs will have them changed for them. Does that include pictures because I was never warned and had one removed and it was never explained why.

Also, why is the blue Cosforums skin the only one thats extended? I'd like to be able to use others but it's annoying how tight the the forums become which results in extra scrolling.

According to the zero tolerance policy members who don't change their sigs will have them changed for them. Does that include pictures because I was never warned and had one removed and it was never explained why.

Yes. We will remove images if they break the rules. This includes size restrictions.

Also, why is the blue Cosforums skin the only one thats extended? I'd like to be able to use others but it's annoying how tight the the forums become which results in extra scrolling.

If you click the coresize button on the main page http://www.cosforums.com/images/oof/buttons/cosresize.gif it will expand the forum width. However this function may not work with all styles. This is because some are designed to be viewed at smaller scales.

This is just a suggestion for the Office of the Major Events. Major current events are discussed there, instead of starting threads for every event like the cyclone or earthquake or the 6 blasts that took place in Jaipur in India just a couple of hours ago, I wondered if that area could have countries as seperate threads.

Then in China, posters interested to do so, could post the current events as they happen, and if others are interested they could also add to the comments or just read it and be aware.

So a thread for countries like the USA, UK, India, China, Australia, Pakistan or any other nation. This was what I wanted to suggest. :)

If thre is a section like this, then forgive me, I am not aware. :)

This is just a suggestion for the Office of the Major Events. Major current events are discussed there, instead of starting threads for every event like the cyclone or earthquake or the 6 blasts that took place in Jaipur in India just a couple of hours ago, I wondered if that area could have countries as seperate threads.

Then in China, posters interested to do so, could post the current events as they happen, and if others are interested they could also add to the comments or just read it and be aware.

So a thread for countries like the USA, UK, India, China, Australia, Pakistan or any other nation. This was what I wanted to suggest. :)

If thre is a section like this, then forgive me, I am not aware. :)

Thanks for the suggestion, However we've decided not to implement it at this stage. The staff feel that certain threads/countries would get a lot of attention while others would get none, and while that is the nature of threads and forums those that do get posts, such as America or China, would get arguments that are already in place in the DoIMC section already.

Thanks for the suggestion, However we've decided not to implement it at this stage. The staff feel that certain threads/countries would get a lot of attention while others would get none, and while that is the nature of threads and forums those that do get posts, such as America or China, would get arguments that are already in place in the DoIMC section already.

Oh! okay; thanks for thinking through and telling me. :)

I don't know if anybody has done this yet so... here it goes...

My suggestion is: Can we do the Sorting Hat & have the 4 common rooms of hogwarts forums? If you know what I mean...

If so, I'd like to be the mod/prefect of Gryffindor, please...

I don't know if anybody has done this yet so... here it goes...

My suggestion is: Can we do the Sorting Hat & have the 4 common rooms of hogwarts forums? If you know what I mean...

If so, I'd like to be the mod/prefect of Gryffindor, please...

I believe mods have said no to this before as it can create arguments between houses. However there are lots of sorting quizzes online if you want to be sorted

I believe mods have said no to this before as it can create arguments between houses. However there are lots of sorting quizzes online if you want to be sorted

Oh, ok... it's just that the other HP site I'm on does it like that and they seem to have no probs with it... because of the fact that only the MEMBERS of the Common Rooms can enter into there rooms... ( ex: I'm in Gryffindor so that means I can only enter into the Common Room of Gryffindor and no other houses common rooms) and hence why your only allowed to join 1 house ( from the sorting hat).

Do you understand now what I'm trying to get too?

I mean if that is STILL too much for this site to handle, than I understand completely, I was just only throwing out a suggestion...

Oh, ok... it's just that the other HP site I'm on does it like that and they seem to have no probs with it... because of the fact that only the MEMBERS of the Common Rooms can enter into there rooms... ( ex: I'm in Gryffindor so that means I can only enter into the Common Room of Gryffindor and no other houses common rooms) and hence why your only allowed to join 1 house ( from the sorting hat).

Do you understand now what I'm trying to get too?

I mean if that is STILL too much for this site to handle, than I understand completely, I was just only throwing out a suggestion...

CoS forums has always chosen not to sort people. This includes having common rooms. We've seen it go really wrong on other forums, and as we've managed to get by without it for five years we're not going to implement it now.

Thank you for your suggestion though :)

At the moment we can do advanced searches in specific forums and sub-forums, but I was wondering whether this could be extended to places such as the Marauder's Map, for example, where at the moment, I don't think there is an easy way to search?

Thanks in advance to anyone who answers this.
:tu:

At the moment we can do advanced searches in specific forums and sub-forums, but I was wondering whether this could be extended to places such as the Marauder's Map, for example, where at the moment, I don't think there is an easy way to search?

Thanks in advance to anyone who answers this.
:tu: There is an advanced search feature for student list, but not for Marauder's Map. The Marauder's map only shows who is logged in right now, which has been a relatively small number lately.

Does that help?

Oh, right, I didn't realise that. Although, looking at that, it seems you can only search for people's usernames on there. It would be useful if you could search the Marauders Map, because then you could search specifically people who are currently online and you could search for the names of threads to see who was viewing it (admittedly you could just go to the thread and look at the bottom, but if you wanted to see who was viewing several threads it might be quicker if you could search on the marauder's map). I just think it might have its benefits.

Thanks, SusanBones, for replying. :tu:

JJFinch if you scroll down to the bottom of the Marauders Map page you will find some options on what the map can display for you . If you want to see just students there is a setting that can let you do just that .

I hope that helps ?

twins:p

I'm not quite sure if this is the place to bring this up, but I was wondering if it would be possible for me to start a thread in the writing area for a sort of short-story contest. Or not even a contest, just somewhere were someone could set a theme and everyone write 500 words about it. For people who don't want to write a full-blown many-worded story or maybe just want to write a short something for fun.
I know we already have a sort of fan-fiction contest, and a regular writing contest, but this is a bit different, I think.
Hoping this is the right place to post this. Thanks!

I think it sounds different enough. You can owl me the details to make sure before you start it if you want.

I'm not quite sure if this is the place to bring this up, but I was wondering if it would be possible for me to start a thread in the writing area for a sort of short-story contest. Or not even a contest, just somewhere were someone could set a theme and everyone write 500 words about it. For people who don't want to write a full-blown many-worded story or maybe just want to write a short something for fun.
I know we already have a sort of fan-fiction contest, and a regular writing contest, but this is a bit different, I think.
Hoping this is the right place to post this. Thanks!

There is already the Writing Contest (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=112684) but it hasn't been very active. Hope that helps :)

How about getting rid of the toilet signs denoting posters sex and use the symbols with arrows and crosses as suggested by another disgruntled forum member. I mean so many females don't wear skirts these days and what about those cultures where the males where sarongs, kilts etc etc??

How about getting rid of the toilet signs denoting posters sex and use the symbols with arrows and crosses as suggested by another disgruntled forum member. I mean so many females don't wear skirts these days and what about those cultures where the males where sarongs, kilts etc etc??

:lol: I can't say I've ever worn my kilt whilst posting on CoS!

To be honest I think the signs are fine, I always get a little confused by the arrows.

How about getting rid of the toilet signs denoting posters sex and use the symbols with arrows and crosses as suggested by another disgruntled forum member. I mean so many females don't wear skirts these days and what about those cultures where the males where sarongs, kilts etc etc??

Um, we'll see. It's not on the list of major priorities right now, but when I get a moment I'll discuss this with Ali.

How about getting rid of the toilet signs denoting posters sex and use the symbols with arrows and crosses as suggested by another disgruntled forum member. I mean so many females don't wear skirts these days and what about those cultures where the males where sarongs, kilts etc etc??

To be honest, it seems as though there's no point changing something which is universally understood just because it's slightly inaccurate. It's like cartoon characters always have three fingers instead of four plus a thumb - the only difference is that this is related to gender, which people seem to delight in being picky about. Just my opinion, and no offence intended.

Is there any way to change it so that when I click on the arrow (the one pointing down) it takes me to the first unread post in the thread since the last time I read the thread and not just the first unread post since the last time I logged in? No? Dang it.

It actually should take you to the last unread post since you logged in last time, but sometimes it seems to skip over time periods. Means that you get them back later again. Just don't know how to avoid this one. :/

To be honest, it seems as though there's no point changing something which is universally understood just because it's slightly inaccurate. It's like cartoon characters always have three fingers instead of four plus a thumb - the only difference is that this is related to gender, which people seem to delight in being picky about. Just my opinion, and no offence intended.

I agree... We have people from all over the world coming here... And this is something we all understand. How else can we depict a boy or a girl? I almost never get the arrows right :lol:

We could have this for 'undisclosed'.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f3/Transgender-intersexual_symbol.svg/210px-Transgender-intersexual_symbol.svg.png
:eeep:

^ :rotfl:

Now that would definitely be different... :eeep:

We could have this for 'undisclosed'.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f3/Transgender-intersexual_symbol.svg/210px-Transgender-intersexual_symbol.svg.png
:eeep:

:rotfl: Might gve the wrong message - you know, undisclosed or just confused?