DU vs Freep forum structure

[darkstar]

We all know we're smarter, nicer sexier and all round cooler. B-)

But I think there is something really telling about the way their little cyber compound is set up, especially when pitted against the brilliance of what Skinner and co have set up.

The news just comes in a linear fashion over there. No kicking to the top based on level of interest. Likewise, the threads don't nest or cascade (or whatever the proper term is), so every one is talking past one another.

How perfecly emblematic of the America they live in: in the large view, news stories flowing by to sink out of sight; in the smaller view, people simply spouting opinions and largely talking past each other.

Then, add our GDF--where people can opine and theorize and start arguments and chant rallying cries--and Lounge--where people participants emerge as individuated HUMAN BEINGS. Couple w/ the personalization via avatars, animated sig lines, etc. and DU has a great vibe.

Not to mention just the graphic appeal.

Weep, der Freepenlurker weep.

[HEyHEY]

1. That site is terrible

Way to hard to navigate compared to DU.

[Zuni]

2. I think the columns on the right are for ongoing threads

in the shaded boxes--on FR I mean. I have seen threads stay up there for days.

Other than that, their board is plain and boring looking, with few colors.

I think the DU board is all around better