Originally posted by gregr
What they're finally finding out over there is that flames bring eyeballs.
After all they're the ones that came up with some the corny rules here. "We also take politeness very seriously"
Now they're seeing all these views in the thread I started and they're thinking maybe little flares ever so often is ok.
I've had members tell me that DS is like going to a library. Maybe now they won't go around whacking those loud kids with rulers.
Despite all of the hand wringing when a flame war breaks out, there is no doubt it dramatically increases viewing. No one who has spent any time in a forum can deny that. I have to admit I enjoy reading them - it certainly adds a little electricity to the atmosphere and breaks up the monotony (why do you think the refs let them fight in hockey games?).
I like to watch an occasional special on the History or Biography channel but if I had to watch one documentary after another I would soon doze off. I have to pop a copy of Lethal Weapon in the VCR every once in awhile.
One thing I have always enjoyed about this forum is that it is always entertaining. I like the serious information I get and the business I can do here, but I also like that it has a bit of a rowdy atmosphere too. You don't feel like you are working all the time when you hang out here. I think that has given it a collegial feel that has led to some good friendships and good times. Of course, that loosey goosey atmosphere is not for everyone. Some people like Pepsi, some prefer Coke.
At least from my perception, DS offers a much different atmosphere and that is great. Who needs two forums that are exactly the same? I have liked Safe, Matty and Snoopy since their days here and have been a member at DS since day 1. I do sense more of an "all business" tone there, so I don't do as much "hanging out" there as I do here (there is also a much more active pro new extension group here that addresses a key interest for me). Other people have completely different sensibilities and can only handle a little bit of DNF's more raucous style.
It kind of reminds me of the last century when all the cowboys were out west firing their six-shooters into the ceiling at the saloon (while the gamblers were busy doing business at the poker table). Meanwhile, back east, everybody was all duded up and exhibiting much more refined behaviour. To me, DNF is the Old West (unfortunately without the Dancing Girls), DS is Boston. Both have their good points and bad points and which you prefer will be a matter of individual taste.
I see nothing wrong with a friendly rivalry between the two and see no reason to take some back and forth jabs too seriously. I think it was Safesys at DS who pointed out recently that it's just a couple of domain forums - nothing to get overly worked up about. If you don't like what's playing on one side of the multiplex, check out the other (just don't try to sneak in without buying a ticket)!