[wp-forums] Pastebin requirement

[Tom Barrett]

Hi

Currently, when a user posts a long block of code in the support forums, a
> moderator will delete it and says that posting long blocks of code is
> against the rules.
>


> In short, everyone looses.
>

I think there is a small set of people that don't :)


> a) allow long blocks of code directly in the forums.
>

This would definitely make them too noisy?


> b) the moderator doesn't just remove the code, but also posts it on
> pastebin
> and posts a link back to the thread.
>
> c) Add a notice close to the submission form with a link to pastebin so
> that
> users know about the requirement.
>

As previously noted by others, people will not read these notices.
Additionally I think the external link to pastebin will put people off, as
it can be a fickle world out there.


> d) Allow long blocks of code directly in the forums, but with a "show /
> hide" link


I like this one. Easy to moderate, no loss of data and no need to visit
another site.

Don't get me wrong, I think pastebin is excellent, however I would be
slightly concerned that having to open another window or tab will put up a
slight barrier. In my experience forum and mailing list questions using
pastebin get less responses than a spammy (possibly rule-breaking) post.

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