FORUM ETIQUETTE

© 1997-2003 by the Draconian Empire
Texts compiled by Onaeus Lampetides, Tearstorm Sommerlund and Pyros Haldir

The Forum of Imperial Draconia is the single most valuable tool of a Draconian noble. It should be treated with the respect it deserves; usage of the forum is a great sword, but that sword is two-edged. Proper use of the forum can make one a very respected personage. Improper use can label one a fool. To ensure a proper use of our forum, every poster agrees to the forum etiquette displayed herein.

A. Posting

Of old, there was a strict and formal method for announcing opening posts. However, this method has been relaxed somewhat over the past few years. The purpose of this lesson is to educate the aspiring noble in how to compose a post in the High Style. When used, this style of composing can deliver the most powerful of messages.

When posting, the first thing one should examine is the subject of the message. Great leeway can be given in the subject of a composition, depending on the current customs and situations in the Empire. Post the messages within the appropriate forum, such as roleplaying posts that go into the roleplaying forums, and trading posts that go into the trading forum.

Since we now use a system of registered users on the forum board, everybody may add a signature which is being displayed below the message. In here, it is useful to explain who one is or what one does. A probable signature would be "Emperor Pyros Haldir of Draconia" or "Lord Morrolan of Dragonspire Keep", for example. It is also possible to add other ranks, titles or deeds below such. Also, a quote looks nice and proper, if you have one available that you like.

In the body of your message, please use complete sentences, and make sure proper spelling and punctuation is observed. This is the most important part of ones image; who you are on the forum is reflected by your mode of speech. You may have the best of intentions, but your thoughts can only be effectively translated into action if people are able to decipher the meaning of your words.

B. Replying

Before responding to a post, read it and wait for a few minutes... It will clear your thoughts, weed out unnecessary emotion. Only when you can think objectively, free of rage or kindness, should you post on the forum.

Never, ever, openly argue on the forum. Arguing implies disunity, and disunity is contrary to the stability of the Empire. If you find something wrong with a statement of one of your countrymen, use ICQ to question him politely. All posts you see will be either a statement or a question. Respond to statements in a positive manner, if at all. If you disagree with a statement, and feel argumentative, compose a reply stating that you would wish to speak with the author on ICQ as soon as is convenient. If the author has obviously overstepped his sphere of influence, a small, friendly rebuke may be permitted, but that is all. You should never be insulting to your guildmates, even if you don't like some of them. We are all brothers and sisters in Draconia, and the community that we love can only be maintained if order is kept. The greatest part of the maintainence of order is politeness.

When answering questions, or arguing honourably in official debates, you may publicly argue a point opposite your fellow members, but remember to always be in an emotionless state when doing so, and be careful not to offend any in the Empire, or without.

C. Administration

To introduce the topic - there are two kinds of administrators. The one kind has the general forum in its hands, the maintenance of the boards and the overall workplace. These people are listed as "Administrator" under their name. The other kind is a forum-specific moderator, able to change, modify or delete inappropriate postings in their respective forums. These forum users carry the name "Global Moderator" under their name. Precisely, the Praetor, the Chancellor and the Emperor of Draconia will hold this rank, and nobody else. However, it is possible to give moderation priviledges to others, such as the Guardian Captains for the Squire Forums.

No administrators may modify sentence structure, grammar, and/or spelling in a post made by someone other than themselves. Posts will only be modified if the message contains foul language or images over 20kb. Posts which violate the Terms of Service for this forum are subject to removal in their entirety. Further, posts that are contrary to the spirit of the board posted on may be deleted without notice.

Any members that feel their posts were edited or removed without reason MUST speak with either their Duke/Duchess or the Praetor of the Empire. Complaints posted on any forum in regards to message editing/deletion WILL be promptly removed.

Any member that violates the Terms of Service for this board or violates the laws of the Empire is subject to having his or her posting privileges removed temporarily/permanently and may have their membership status subsequently questioned.

If you believe you are the victim of slander or libel, refrain from replying to the offendor and immediately contact your Duke/Duchess or preferably the Praetor. The issue will be promptly dealt with.