Jeff Jarvis, Buzz Machine
Jane Hamsher, firedoglake
Jay Rosen, PressThink
Glenn Reynolds, Instapundit
Jim Brady, washingtonpost.com
I pre-sent my two cents worth in advance - a quick summation of the earlier posts and some of my comments on other blogs from over the past day or so. The submission form had server problems, so I don't know if it made it through:
Ive been thinking about your current situation, as we've had good success w/ handling reader comments on every news article. It does make a better newsroom.
Jim, you've stated that the posters didnt abide by the rules - yet I can't see any rules, or links to rules, on your site. Are there rules governing posting behavior and if so where?
From experience, you cannot make effective use w/reader comments without moderation (or at least continuous monitoring). Its crucial on a lot of levels. Setting up an unattended forum and stepping back is NOT reader engagement. You can either be a passive facilitator or take an active hand in closing the media gap.
You'll also need to establish clear authority for your dept over reporters w/an interactive net presence.If its an issue grown on the web, at that moment they must report to you.
Just my 2 cents from the field. Best of luck, and we'll be watching :-)
The only other thing I can suggest are more specifics re basic online community management ideas: get a verifiable full name and email adress; do not allow anonymous posting (this cuts down the 'road rage' factor); good filtering system; perhaps a waiting period between sign up and allowing a post; a link to rules at every submit comment form; and keep abreast of internet libel law cases moving through the courts.
I think WP has their heart in the right place for reader participation, and I do wish him, sincerely: "Good Luck, Jim."
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