A really good article on community development includes this paragraph: “In order to succeed, a virtual community has to have an affinity — the answer to the question “what would draw these people together?” It has to present a user interface that doesn’t baffle the newcomer, but gives a range of options to the experienced user. Building a social space online does not guarantee that people will inhabit it. It has to have a social infrastructure, including simple written agreements to a social contract governing online behavior and sanctions for transgression. It needs skilled human facilitation. And there must be some plan for bringing a continuing stream of newcomers into the community.” Which, in essence, says it all.
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