If there are only two things you really need to know about operating a BBS they would be:
1) A BBS costs time, and
2) A BBS costs money.
In other words, operating a BBS will end up costing you more time and more money than you first expected. You will want to get to know your phone service representatives. They will be able to help you with any phone line problems you run across when dealing with your BBS. Also, if you have a hacker, then they can help you get out of the situation, and tell you how to correct the problem. You need to remember that a good BBS doesn’t just happen overnight. It will take you a little while to get prepared for going online. You need make sure that everything is ready to be put into practice.
A BBS sysop is like a control technician. They have full control over your users. If they don’t comply by the rules, then kick them off the BBS. If they feel that you are not a push-over, then they will respect you. Make sure that they know that you will not tolerate disturbances online. You should try to join a sysop support group in your town. This is not saying that sysops need mental help, but it is saying that sysops do get stressed out a lot. If you have several sysops in a room together, they can give each other ideas about how to be a better sysop. You can also just have a good time talking to other people who enjoy doing the same thing you do.
You should pay attention to the comments your users make about your BBS, and on other BBS’. If they are saying that they like “this” feature about “X” BBS, and “that” feature about “Y” BBS, then you should try to offer “this” and “that” on your BBS, as well. If they are saying that they would like you to offer something that you don’t, then if enough of them request it, then you should consider it. You should make a note to them stating that it DOES cost money to provide them with that service and that you are researching the cost.
You might want to try setting a up a donation box for your users to contribute to, so you can provide them with the service. Have them list their name, and put yes or no on whether they will donate. If they want the service, they will donate. Make sure and tell them that ALL users will have access to this door, regardless whether or not they sign the petition or donate. You might consider telling them that you will divide the money that is left over evenly and distribute it among all who donated. Keep this in mind about your BBS: Word of your BBS will get around eventually. What people say about it will depend on what the people using it think of it. If users think that your BBS is a good one, then you will see a rapid increase in users. However, if you obtain a reputation for being a bad BBS, then that word will spread like a plague.
No comments:
Post a Comment