TalkBoard Topics - Suggestion: Creation of a Lounge Subforum in OMNI

While TB can't direct the moderators to act, they are able to create new forums as they see fit to further the mission of FT. I believe a Lounge subforum in OMNI, where moderators, if they saw fit, could move existing and new lounge threads, would reflect the current view of the TB that off-topic posts should not count towards a poster's post count.

I fully support this.

While this sounds interesting, I'd wonder at its feasibility. The pull of the lounge threads is that you can have OMNI within each forum. If you move the lounge threads to a central location, then you kind of remove its reason for being. (Otherwise everyone could just go to OMNI today to have their "lounge" discussions.)

I guess it might be possible to put a "sticky" post in each forum with a link to the lounge thread in OMNI. But even that will add "extra" steps to those wanting to visit those threads. And if OMNI has any "posting" restrictions, there may be some who can read the lounge thread today, but not if it were moved.

OMNI is a big fluffy lounge all by itself already, why creating a lounge subforum? :p

I believe a Lounge subforum in OMNI, where moderators, if they saw fit, could move existing and new lounge threads, would reflect the current view of the TB that off-topic posts should not count towards a poster's post count.
How to NOT count posts is a very separate and different issue from where lounge threads should reside. I am totally against this faulty line of logic.

Allow me to borrow the analogy that lounge threads are just like bars. Everyone has their own favorite local bars. You go to a specific bar for an army of reasons. It can be the cute bartenders, the music they play, the crowd, cheap liquor, and/or that particular regular you happen to have a crush for ;). Why can't I go to my fav bar on the 6th Street now? Why the establishments have to move to OMNI Avenue when the owners see no reason to leave? :confused:

Allow me to borrow the analogy that lounge threads are just like bars. Everyone has their own favorite local bars. You go to a specific bar for an army of reasons. It can be the cute bartenders, the music they play, the crowd, cheap liquor, and/or that particular regular you happen to have a crush for. Why can't I go my fav bar on the 6th Street now? Why the establishments have to move to OMNI Avenue when the owners see no reason to leave? :confused:Because going to a lounge in a miles and points forum is contrary to the core mission of this site and therefore, should have no meaning or value to the community.

It's starting to appear that there are big double standards for off-topic posts in this community.

Because going to a lounge in a miles and points forum is contrary to the core mission of this site and therefore, should have no meaning or value to the community.

It's starting to appear that there are big double standards for off-topic posts in this community.

That's exactly it. It's a huge double standard between OMNI and the lounge threads and how off-topic posts are treated. In the lounge threads, off-topic posts add to one's post count, but posts there generally lend nothing to the core mission of FT.

OMNI is considered off-topic (which it is) as it generally does not lend much to the core mission of FT, yet posts there do not count.

The arguments for lounge threads are, "But they add to the community," and similar threads. OMNI adds to the community too, as it's a place for people to vent, seek advice, comment on current events, etc. Why are posts there not counted but posts in lounge threads counted?

The arguments for not counting posts in OMNI include the, "But the counting games, waste of time threads, etc." Anyone could start a counting game or some sort of waste of time vein in the lounge forums, and their posts would count, whereas the same post in OMNI would not.

I come to this with an entirely open mind. It would be useful (to me at least) if we could perhaps rewind slightly and seek clarification from members who frequent forums that host established lounge threads so that we can harvest their views on the purpose of the respective lounge threads and highlight the virtues these specific threads currently offer members.

Would the suggested sub forum come with similar OMNI/OMNI PR access restrictions? If so, does this restriction conflict with the purpose of the established lounge threads?

Another question to those that contribute to lounge threads - is the sustainability of the lounge thread dependent on its proximity to the forum it is currently attached to? In other words, if the lounge threads are relocated to a remote sub-forum are they likely to prosper or wither?

I guess this topic really depends on the TB decision of whether OMNI posts will count. If they vote for OMNI posts to count, this whole thread is moot. If they vote it down and OMNI posts do not count, then there is something worth discussing. To me it would then become a question what is more important: (a) of a potential double standard to post counts or (b) Lounge threads being a vital part of FT and remain as they are.

The step after would be to decide how useful displaying post counts really is. Perhaps TB can eventually consider to have them not displayed (rather have them just shown on the posters statistics page) at all?

With all this Post Count Angst, why do we even keep this feature?

As a forum specific frequenter and a former moderator, I think the lounge threads, meet up threads, and other type threads in each particular forum serve a purpose that add value to Flyertalk.

While visiting my favorite forums, I enjoy seeing and discussing with forum regulars all things including where we will be to meet up along our travels. I would not visit such a thread in Omni.

As a former moderator of a vibrant forum once known for its frequent off topic hijacking of almost each and every thread (Air Canada, if you were wondering), I think the lounge threads provide an avenue to release steam without clogging up and distracting the other threads.

Just as moderation and ambassadors have created re-visitation habits that keep FT's faithful and knowledgeable membership close and loyal, and less likely to drift away, so have the lounge forums. The emotional attachment that these threads (and the whole Omni forum for that matter) provide keep a good section of the membership, and their knowledge close by, and loyal.

Flyertalk and the TB should be looking at more avenues to create loyalty, emotional ties with its members, and encourage frequent visits if you ask me. It all makes for a vibrant community and keeps our knowledge base healthy.


....and now the cry from Omni-ites that because my meetup posts count, it's a double standard. Frankly, I don't care if my posts count. But take away the tools and the way I use this media, socially, and I have very little reason to frequent FT. It seems like post count is so important to others' that they don't care who they upset... in the name of fairness. :rolleyes:

....and now the cry from Omni-ites that because my meetup posts count, it's a double standard. Frankly, I don't care if my posts count. But take away the tools and the way I use this media, socially, and I have very little reason to frequent FT. It seems like post count is so important to others' that they don't care who they upset... in the name of fairness. :rolleyes:Perfect example of how "omni-ites" are treated as second class citizens around here. :rolleyes:

However, the issue is the value of the off-topic post, not whether or not they count. I'm all for removing all post counts and titles.

But as long as they exist, and the TB has said the Omni should be treated like the rest of FT when discussing the images issue, there IS a double standard if posts there do not count.

Your "good morning" post in a lounge thread has a value of 1, while my explanation of how to plant a flower in Omni has a value of zero.

Perfect example of how "omni-ites" are treated as second class citizens around here. :rolleyes:

However, the issue is the value of the off-topic post, not whether or not they count. I'm all for removing all post counts and titles.

But as long as they exist, and the TB has said the Omni should be treated like the rest of FT when discussing the images issue, there IS a double standard if posts there do not count.

Your "good morning" post in a lounge thread has a value of 1, while my explanation of how to plant a flower in Omni has a value of zero.
We agree again. :D To me, the how to plant a flower has more value than a good morning post in a lounge thread. I can gain something from the how to plant a flower thread. :)

I come to this with an entirely open mind. It would be useful (to me at least) if we could perhaps rewind slightly and seek clarification from members who frequent forums that host established lounge threads so that we can harvest their views on the purpose of the respective lounge threads and highlight the virtues these specific threads currently offer members.

Great idea! ^

Because going to a lounge in a miles and points forum is contrary to the core mission of this site and therefore, should have no meaning or value to the community.
Being a non-participant in lounge threads, you see no meaning or value to the community in them. Have you really given a thought about jackal's prior replies to you w/r/t your personal take on lounge threads?

I'd suggest looking at a couple of different lounge threads.

One I follow is often (though less so these days) what you say. The other two I follow are very much not as you say. One in particular has definitely helped to foster a sense of community--I've met over half of the regular partipants in that one, learned about construction of a new Yogurtland at my local airport, found and bought airline memorabilia and logo swag at huge discounts, converted people to In-N-Out's secret menu, bought vodka for missydarlin, learned about ADS-B (a new replacement for radar-based aircraft positioning), learned about new 3D TV technology, and found a $29 cruise...and that's only four pages. In that thread, I've never seen a post that was simply "Good morning."
...the CO Box ...

The culture there is definitely different from the DL and AS lounges that I'm used to, but it's still fun and educational. ;)

As to your other statement about lounges being moved to OMNI: I see your point, but I don't know that they would function in the same manner there. They certainly would not have naturally sprung up there. The lounges in the individual airline forums began somewhat organically and feel like a natural fit. Herding the cattle all the way over to OMNI and making the lounges harder to find could have the effect of dropping participation in the lounges as they become less visible and/or more difficult to access.

I don't do CO Box but I am in Community Lounge thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1159016-community-lounge-good-m-e-everybody-enjoy-your-stay-us.html). I can only speak for the Community Lounge thread that I know. First of all, we have guidelines and rules set by forum MODs (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/15431726-post1.html). Multiquotes reinforced and no post padding.

I don't know how such thread can still be the community lounge thread if disjointed from CommunityBuzz! Forum and moved to OMNI. The good m/a/e (Morning/Afternoon/Evening) is actually a coded term to signify the international nature of FT community. While I am typing up this thread at 6 o'clock am TPE time, our fellow American FTers are enjoying their afternoon and evening hours. It always brings a smile to my face when I greet the community lounge with good m/a/e. That reminds me how the term was from and coined, and how international FTers are.

Here's what I know about the Community Lounge thread:
1. countless DOs have happened: big and small; past, present and even in the future;
2. the routing advices cross alliances (to attend the DOs and others);
3. the accommodation suggestions for different hotel chains (for the DOs or others);
4. status match headsup and tips;
5. cooking tips, ethnic foods, and dining suggestions;
6. excitement to share and enrichment from learning about different countries, cultures and languages from fellow lounge participants;
7. close friendship formed with open invitationd to be house guests.

Without this community lounge thread, I don't think any of the above would happen that smoothly nor naturally. If you still insist all these have no meaning or value or off-topic to the community, then I don't know what else I can tell you.

If you have issues with certain lounge thread/s that contain meaningless and/or OT posts, I think you can either excise RBPs or contact forum mods. No need to spread the blame to all lounge threads.

... my explanation of how to plant a flower in Omni has a value of zero.
Mary, I love your rose thread. Why do you think your thread/posts has zero value? :confused:

I think we all know by heart value of a post doesn't come from post count counter. I recently read quite a few threads/posts from a few specific FTers, some newbies and some oldtimers. These small group of people show a consistent tendency to ask basic questions over and over again by starting new threads. Even after their threads have been shortly closed, relocated, or redirected by forum mods, their posting patterns don't change. And those basic questions had been answered thousands, if not millions times before. Some start say 7 new threads to ask their steamline of questions that could have been addressed fully in one single thread. Some of them have post counts in lower 4 digits, while some trigger the post counter by a few dozen times.

Are they annoying? YES!
Do I think their say 56 or 1234 posts have value to the community? Honestly, NO.

Neither you and I are the gaming type. Why allow yourself beaten by this sort of number game? ;)

As a forum specific frequenter and a former moderator, I think the lounge threads, meet up threads, and other type threads in each particular forum serve a purpose that add value to Flyertalk.

While visiting my favorite forums, I enjoy seeing and discussing with forum regulars all things including where we will be to meet up along our travels. I would not visit such a thread in Omni.

Agree. These threads do serve a purpose and IMHO should be left where they are.

Seeing as the Lounges threads stay where it is I say just keep it... Acknowledge that there is a double standard and fix it by allowing Omni to count.. Then we don't have to blame the Mods and TB won't have to throw it back at the Mods saying its their duty to enforce the rules..

I am against this proposal as it contradicts the reasons of why the Lounge thread concept was developed in the first place.

Perfect example of how "omni-ites" are treated as second class citizens around here. :rolleyes:

Mary, you are an Omni-ite.

You are also an FT Ambassador, an Evangelist, and have a 17,000+ post count.

It does not seem that you are being treated as a second-class citizen.

Any post you make anywhere except Omni is included in your post count. That is true for me and everyone else on FT, up to and including San Diego1K.

If we are all being treated equally in this, then we are not "second class citizens".

Mary, you are an Omni-ite.

You are also an FT Ambassador, an Evangelist, and have a 17,000+ post count.

It does not seem that you are being treated as a second-class citizen.

Any post you make anywhere except Omni is included in your post count. That is true for me and everyone else on FT, up to and including San Diego1K.

If we are all being treated equally in this, then we are not "second class citizens".While I post in Omni, when I have something valuable to contribute in other forums, I spend quite a bit of time researching and composing those responses. However, just as you did, because I spend time in FT's living room (Omni), my contributions are not valued nearly as much as somone who does not. As a matter of fact, some consider it a badge of honor to have never posted in Omni.

However, my point all along has been the value of the posts, no matter where on FT. Because Omni has such a terrible reputation on FT the posts, no matter how good or how well researched, have zero value.

The real issue is why some Off topic posts have value and others do not. I'm fine with whatever decision is made as long as it is consistent. Right now, it's not.

I am against this proposal as it contradicts the reasons of why the Lounge thread concept was developed in the first place.

+1. I agree with Canarsie -- especially in the case of the Luxury Hotels forum the Lounge thread is ripe with information not easily classified within existing threads nor warrant the creation of a separate thread. It is also one of the most read and contributed on the Luxury Hotels forum and was very warmly received by the membership of board.

The Lounge threads were created to allow a sense of community to grow within a particular forum and, at the same time, reduce the number of off-topic humorous posts in other threads.

If they are moved out of their home forums they will no longer serve either of these purposes.

They do, obviously, attract a large number of decent people and no one who fits that description would ever go to Omni.

They do, obviously, attract a large number of decent people and no one who fits that description would ever go to Omni.
So you're saying I'm not decent? :D

So you're saying I'm not decent? :D

I certainly hope you aren't!

The Lounge threads were created to allow a sense of community to grow within a particular forum and, at the same time, reduce the number of off-topic humorous posts in other threads.

If they are moved out of their home forums they will no longer serve either of these purposes.

They do, obviously, attract a large number of decent people and no one who fits that description would ever go to Omni.

Pin a link to the top of each forum that redirects to the appropriate OMNI thread. Problem solved.

Leave the Lounges where they are. To say there's off topic posts suggests theres a topic. There is none. The lounges are a gathering of a particular airline's flyers and serve a great purpose for new and old patrons to gather with a specific common interest.

I certainly hope you aren't!

LOL, but I thought all decent women talked about how much they love handling pistols. :D

The following is from a different thread with a similar topic but it applies here:So should this motion fail, my suggestion be to either close the lounge forums and put all off topic discussion in OMNI where all off-topic posts are treated the sameAs the Dovster so eloquently said earlier in this thread...Naaa, been there, done that....as evidenced here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/delta-skymiles-pre-worldperks-merger/61847-unabashed-cholula-spam-138.html#post4486613) and here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/delta-skymiles/59521-moderators-guilty-premature-evacuation-4.html#post4486678) and was part of the impetus of forming the Lounge thread concept in the first place...

...and I was on the receiving end of all of the e-mail messages and private messages expressing vehement protest as a result.

Pin a link to the top of each forum that redirects to the appropriate OMNI thread. Problem solved.This is probably the best solution to keep access easy for people using the lounge threads and keep the treatment of off-topic posts consistent.

I can't imagine a negative to this scenario.

Pin a link to the top of each forum that redirects to the appropriate OMNI thread. Problem solved.
THAT is a solution to a problem that never exists. There's never a problem with the placement of lounge threads. We are not in Technical Issues Forum asking how to be "redirected." :rolleyes:

Like I had said up thread, the community lounge thread will NOT work in OMNI. The community lounge thread is in CommunityBuzz! Forum for a good reason. We are a community! Any FTer can chime in and mingle with the lounge crowd in FT Community Lounge. The door is open to every FTer, even though not every FTer chooses to stop by. Hey, it's a free forum/society/country. It won't be THE community lounge thread no more if moved to OMNI.

Allow me to repeat myself. The community lounge thread is not about off-topic discussion. Moving it to OMNI is just so wrong:

OMNI
OMNI is the place for vibrant dialogue on topics unrelated to miles, points, and travel. It is fascinating reading and provides quite a bit of humor and entertainment.
(bolding mine)

Can you honestly tell me our current community lounge thread would fit under OMNI with the above forum description? :confused:

IMHO, lounge subforum in OMNI is just asking for troubles.

This is probably the best solution to keep access easy for people using the lounge threads and keep the treatment of off-topic posts consistent.

I can't imagine a negative to this scenario.

Mary, at least on the Delta Forum, the Lounge is the first thread many new members go to. They test the waters, ask some questions, and eventually start posting on the regular threads.

You were among the most fervent advocates for not allowing newbies to post on Omni. If the Lounge threads go there, this very important function of the Lounge threads will be lost.

Funny, there's a thread in Hyatt, where there is no lounge, that says "Welcome Newbies". I don't see how that would not take the place of a lounge thread for people asking Delta related questions.

Off-topic is off-topic is off-topic. They all should be treated exactly the same way.

One of the reasons for locking up Omni is so people actually contribute to FT and get a feel of the community before jumping into the living room. That would also include lounge threads.

And I was a fervent advocate for keeping the trolls out of Omni, not newbies.

Allow me to repeat myself. The community lounge thread is not about off-topic discussion. Moving it to OMNI is just so wrong:

Can you honestly tell me our current community lounge thread would fit under OMNI with the above forum description? :confused:

IMHO, lounge subforum in OMNI is just asking for troubles.I respect you and your opinion very much, but I just went into the community lounge thread.... lots of good mornings, good evenings, etc. Nothing about travel or meeting up. Perhaps there was a blurb about going to "x" today.

I don't understand why this exact thread could not exist in Omni. Everyone has to click on community to get to it, why not Omni?

All I'm asking for is consistency in treating all off topic posts the same way. I'm not asking to have your fun place taken away. Honestly.

I saw a post in there comparing this discussion to the Tea Party. Serioiusly? The tea party?

Mary, I understand you are not advocating for lounge elimination. But OMNI culture is so unique that it's not in sync with the community lounge thread I know. Not to mention there's 180/180 threshold to OMNI. If the community lounge relocated to OMNI, it wouldn't be a community lounge thread no more. The way I see it, it would just die. Maybe not an instant death, but a quick one, nevertheless.

I don't understand why this exact thread could not exist in Omni. Everyone has to click on community to get to it, why not Omni?

Not to diminish your effort to understand the community lounge thread, but I am afraid you cannot capture the dynamics of the community lounge thread by taking a glimpse of posts from this week, or even the last 1-2 months. The tone and dynamic has been established since last December and stabilized in 1st Quarter 2011. I am not asking you to read the whole Fly to Me contest and Community Lounge threads. I wasn't able to keep up with all the discussion when the lounge was crowded either. But I have been there since Pre-launch (in the Fly to Me contest thread) and Day One, so I think my observations and participation in community lounge, which I have shared up thread, is more close to the reality.

It's just like visiting a new country. Unless you spend enough time researching, staying and interacting with the local, it will be hard to say you do know about say country or culture with a day or one week's reading.

Same applies to OMNI. I won't say I am an OMNI-ite myself but I do make my serious effort and spend quite some time reading, sometimes participating in OMNI since maybe 2006. Even though I don't post much in OMNI, as you know it, I have no problem visiting OMNI. I witness the changes in OMNI along with counting-non-counting-post, "Googlegate", OMNIite pretest, 180/180, and photo enabling. I would think myself is capable to get the inside jokes and references with no problem at this point.

Most, if not all, of the community lounge regulars are not in OMNI. You can put on your nicest dress and do your best gig, telling them the fun and value of OMNI Fluffy, they will NOT come to OMNI. It's just not their thing. Period.

Just like what I have been trying to communicate with you about the community lounge, I seriously doubt you would ever participate in any lounge thread. Like Sharon, lounge thread is just not your thing. If I don't blame you for that, you can't blame people don't come to OMNI either. You cannot default people's free will.

Whatever issues OMNI is facing, if any, it has nothing to do with the existence of lounge threads. Lounge threads are just innocent bystanders. My feeling about OMNI is different from yours. I have no perception of the red-hair stepchild nor second class citizens. Having a lounge subforum in OMNI is not addressing the issues you think OMNI is facing. The sublounge forum line of thinking is only making an enemy of lounge participants, IMHO.

As for my personal observation for the two recent discussion about OMNI post count and lounge subforum, it only makes people want to distance themselves from OMNI more. Is that kind of FT community you want?

Mary, I understand you are not advocating for lounge elimination. But OMNI culture is so unique that it's not in sync with the community lounge thread I know. Not to mention there's 180/180 threshold to OMNI. If the community lounge relocated to OMNI, it wouldn't be a community lounge thread no more. The way I see it, it would just die. Maybe not an instant death, but a quick one, nevertheless.


Not to diminish your effort to understand the community lounge thread, but I am afraid you cannot capture the dynamics of the community lounge thread by taking a glimpse of posts from this week, or even the last 1-2 months. The tone and dynamic has been established since last December and stabilized in 1st Quarter 2011. I am not asking you to read the whole Fly to Me contest and Community Lounge threads. I wasn't able to keep up with all the discussion when the lounge was crowded either. But I have been there since Pre-launch (in the Fly to Me contest thread) and Day One, so I think my observations and participation in community lounge, which I have shared up thread, is more close to the reality.

It's just like visiting a new country. Unless you spend enough time researching, staying and interacting with the local, it will be hard to say you do know about say country or culture with a day or one week's reading.

Same applies to OMNI. I won't say I am an OMNI-ite myself but I do make my serious effort and spend quite some time reading, sometimes participating in OMNI since maybe 2006. Even though I don't post much in OMNI, as you know it, I have no problem visiting OMNI. I witness the changes in OMNI along with counting-non-counting-post, "Googlegate", OMNIite pretest, 180/180, and photo enabling. I would think myself is capable to get the inside jokes and references with no problem at this point.

Most, if not all, of the community lounge regulars are not in OMNI. You can put on your nicest dress and do your best gig, telling them the fun and value of OMNI Fluffy, they will NOT come to OMNI. It's just not their thing. Period.

Just like what I have been trying to communicate with you about the community lounge, I seriously doubt you would ever participate in any lounge thread. Like Sharon, lounge thread is just not your thing. If I don't blame you for that, you can't blame people don't come to OMNI either. You cannot default people's free will.

Whatever issues OMNI is facing, if any, it has nothing to do with the existence of lounge threads. Lounge threads are just innocent bystanders. My feeling about OMNI is different from yours. I have no perception of the red-hair stepchild nor second class citizens. Having a lounge subforum in OMNI is not addressing the issues you think OMNI is facing. The sublounge forum line of thinking is only making an enemy of lounge participants, IMHO.

My personal observation of the two recent discussion about OMNI post count and lounge subforum. It only makes people want to distance themselves from OMNI more. Is that kind of FT community you want?
Because you "cannot capture the dynamics of the community lounge thread by taking a glimpse of posts from this week, or even the last 1-2 months. The tone and dynamic has been established since last December and stabilized in 1st Quarter 2011," means that most newbies and most who have not frequented that lounge thread will not post there. I've looked at a few pages of it, and it seems like it's own little clique and not open to everyone. It is intimidating to those who are not part of that clique, and isn't very welcome, even though the title says, "everybody."

...means that most newbies and most who have not frequented that lounge thread will not post there. I've looked at a few pages of it, and it seems like it's own little clique and not open to everyone. It is intimidating to those who are not part of that clique, and isn't very welcome, even though the title says, "everybody."
When I said "established", it doesn't mean the community lounge thread shuts its door to new comers. On top of my head, there are at least two "late" arrivals who didn't join the community lounge thread until the 2nd Quarter this year and they have become active participants. They made effort to be part of the group. So far, I haven't seen we chased any new face out of the community lounge door either.

I am not going to repeat myself about reading a few pages of OMNI or any lounge thread makes one in the know about OMNI/lounges. Subcultures in any live organization and human societies are a must.

I don't recall if you take part in any lounge or not, kipper, but I know Mary and Sharon are not. In your opinion, having a community lounge thread moving to OMNI would change it and/or make it better? OMNI doesn't have "it's own little clique and not open to everyone?"

The way I see what's happening is OMNIites are attacking lounge threads, thinking this will make OMNI not red-hair stepchild and/or second class. That finding-holes-in-lounge-threads approach is not going to help OMNIites to get what they want. It's not in line with the community spirit either.

Are we really thinking for the betterment of FT community? :confused:

THAT is a solution to a problem that never exists. There's never a problem with the placement of lounge threads. We are not in Technical Issues Forum asking how to be "redirected." :rolleyes:


The problem is with the placement of lounge threads. They are off-topic threads that inflate post counts with such stimulating topics such as "Good morning" and "Good night". Since the TB currently holds the opinion that all off-topic threads belong in OMNI and their posts should not count, this is where Lounge threads rightfully belong.



Like I had said up thread, the community lounge thread will NOT work in OMNI. The community lounge thread is in CommunityBuzz! Forum for a good reason. We are a community! Any FTer can chime in and mingle with the lounge crowd in FT Community Lounge. The door is open to every FTer, even though not every FTer chooses to stop by. Hey, it's a free forum/society/country. It won't be THE community lounge thread no more if moved to OMNI.


A simple link stickied in the Community forum that redirects to the thread in the OMNI subforum would work exactly as the current thread.

The Lounge threads were created to allow a sense of community to grow within a particular forum and, at the same time, reduce the number of off-topic humorous posts in other threads.

If they are moved out of their home forums they will no longer serve either of these purposes.


I fully agree with Dovster here.

As someone that regularly partakes in the DL Lounge and has off-and-on participating in Teh Box, a lot of our conversations in these two threads do focus on travel; just more in a free-flowing fashion. I've had some great conversations about ideas for places to eat in different cities, tips for earning/maximizing points/benefits at specific hotel properties, etc.

Yes, while it's not all points/miles/travel all the time, just reading through it often does convey that sense. Given that I've met pretty much all of the regulars in the Delta lounge in person (and many of the CO Boxians), it's a good place to get some varied feedback on travel-related issues, as well as have some slightly off-topic conversations between people, many of whom have met each other in person. I think you'd lose a lot of that personal edge by dumping these threads into a consolidated OMNI thread, where there might not be as much of that personal relationship.

As for post count, is it that big of a deal? At 10k and 40k posts, you get a little tagline under your name. The real value should be the content of the post; there are some FTers that have 10k+ posts, most of which (in my opinion) are garbage. There are some FTers that don't post a ton, but when they do, their words carry a lot of weight. It's up to each individual to determine the value of the quality of each post, rather than simply relying on a number (or a join date) next to a name.

I really don't know why this is such a concern now; it seems to me that the lounge thread activity has dropped off significantly from what it used to be.

The problem is with the placement of lounge threads. They are off-topic threads that inflate post counts with such stimulating topics such as "Good morning" and "Good night".
You *think* the placement of lounge threads is a problem, which I obvioulsy don't.

Have you RBPed and/or ask those forum mods with resident lounge threads if they agree with your view? What did they say? What did they do?

Whenever I see a misplaced post and/or thread, I RBP it. However, MODs don't necessarily agree with me all the times. By their not taking action toward my RBPs, I know what's their take on say post/thread. I suggest you do the same as I do.

Great idea! ^


Being a non-participant in lounge threads, you see no meaning or value to the community in them. Have you really given a thought about jackal's prior replies to you w/r/t your personal take on lounge threads?




I don't do CO Box but I am in Community Lounge thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1159016-community-lounge-good-m-e-everybody-enjoy-your-stay-us.html). I can only speak for the Community Lounge thread that I know. First of all, we have guidelines and rules set by forum MODs (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/15431726-post1.html). Multiquotes reinforced and no post padding.

I don't know how such thread can still be the community lounge thread if disjointed from CommunityBuzz! Forum and moved to OMNI. The good m/a/e (Morning/Afternoon/Evening) is actually a coded term to signify the international nature of FT community. While I am typing up this thread at 6 o'clock am TPE time, our fellow American FTers are enjoying their afternoon and evening hours. It always brings a smile to my face when I greet the community lounge with good m/a/e. That reminds me how the term was from and coined, and how international FTers are.

Here's what I know about the Community Lounge thread:
1. countless DOs have happened: big and small; past, present and even in the future;
2. the routing advices cross alliances (to attend the DOs and others);
3. the accommodation suggestions for different hotel chains (for the DOs or others);
4. status match headsup and tips;
5. cooking tips, ethnic foods, and dining suggestions;
6. excitement to share and enrichment from learning about different countries, cultures and languages from fellow lounge participants;
7. close friendship formed with open invitationd to be house guests.

Without this community lounge thread, I don't think any of the above would happen that smoothly nor naturally. If you still insist all these have no meaning or value or off-topic to the community, then I don't know what else I can tell you.

If you have issues with certain lounge thread/s that contain meaningless and/or OT posts, I think you can either excise RBPs or contact forum mods. No need to spread the blame to all lounge threads.


Mary, I love your rose thread. Why do you think your thread/posts has zero value? :confused:

I think we all know by heart value of a post doesn't come from post count counter. I recently read quite a few threads/posts from a few specific FTers, some newbies and some oldtimers. These small group of people show a consistent tendency to ask basic questions over and over again by starting new threads. Even after their threads have been shortly closed, relocated, or redirected by forum mods, their posting patterns don't change. And those basic questions had been answered thousands, if not millions times before. Some start say 7 new threads to ask their steamline of questions that could have been addressed fully in one single thread. Some of them have post counts in lower 4 digits, while some trigger the post counter by a few dozen times.

Are they annoying? YES!
Do I think their say 56 or 1234 posts have value to the community? Honestly, NO.

Neither you and I are the gaming type. Why allow yourself beaten by this sort of number game? ;)

Couldn't have put it better as a member of the Community Lounge!

I missed this earlier and am responding now.

Here's what I know about the Community Lounge thread:
[QUOTE]1. countless DOs have happened: big and small; past, present and even in the future;
This has happened in Omni
2. the routing advices cross alliances (to attend the DOs and others); Made plenty of friends in Omni across alliances who are always happy to help
3. the accommodation suggestions for different hotel chains (for the DOs or others); See #3 above
4. status match headsup and tips;See #3
5. cooking tips, ethnic foods, and dining suggestionsThis is almost an everyday occurrence in Omni
6. excitement to share and enrichment from learning about different countries, cultures and languages from fellow lounge participants;Again, a regular occurrence in Omni.
7. close friendship formed with open invitationd to be house guests. Happens in Omni. As a matter of fact, I just went on vacation without an Omni friend whom I never would have met if not for Omni, and I felt like someone was missing. It was the first time in 5 years I was there without him.

As well, I've gone on vacation and shared a room with another FTer who I also would not have met if not for Omni.

You can also add legal advice, relationship advice, appliance advice, and a myriad of other advice.. all given freely and very quickly.

So you see, nothing at all you claim is unique about these lounge threads is really unique. What is different is that the community is now fragmented and only people who frequent certain forums actually get to interact with each other.

The way I see what's happening is OMNIites are attacking lounge threads, thinking this will make OMNI not red-hair stepchild and/or second class. That finding-holes-in-lounge-threads approach is not going to help OMNIites to get what they want. It's not in line with the community spirit either.

Are we really thinking for the betterment of FT community? :confused:Do you really think we're attacking lounge threads? There was a time Omni WAS the community get together spot. Unfortunately, the PR aspect made many people go away and gave the bad imagine that continues to this day. If you go to Omni-lite it's almost just as it was in the beginning now that PR is segregated out.

If anything, I feel the community is now fragmented because of these lounge threads (and I've been asking around - lots of people feel this way).

The purpose of this request to TB, as well as the thread to make posts in Omni count, is to have consistency, not to take away the playgrounds of others.

However, if you folks would venture into regular Omni, I think you will find that it is not at all what you may think it is - and everyone is welcome - even if they only show up once to ask for information and never come back again.

If the TB decides to normalize all off topic posts to not count and move the lounge threads into their own "Omni Lounge" would it be that difficult for you to click on a link in community and be taken to the same lounge thread you're using right now?

The purpose of this request to TB, as well as the thread to make posts in Omni count, is to have consistency, not to take away the playgrounds of others.


I'll agree with this.

I post on several bulletin boards. FlyerTalk is one, but I post on other sites relating to other interests of mine, such as sports or music. Every single one of them has an off-topic discussion board (which fully counts). I don't see why OMNI has to be different. It allows members to find other common interests and make for a stronger community.

The Lounges in each forum do this to a smaller extent, OMNI could just be another venue for doing so.

I see FlyerTalk as a better community having both the Lounge threads in individual forums, as well as posts counting in OMNI. Gives people the option to get to know those in the forum they tend to stay in better, or if they want a broader context, they can get that in OMNI. I have personally posted some things in the Delta Forum Lounge thread that I would not feel comfortable posting in OMNI - the sole reason being that I know most of the people there in person, and the other couple I have not met, we have had enough discussions over the years in that thread so as to I feel they know me well enough that they can give me valued opinions. Not to say anything against the OMNI posters, but the scope of the relationship is a bit more defined which can be helpful in some cases.

Hasn't this tune been played before around here? And wasn't it tried some years ago and then returned to the original place?

Forget it and leave the lounges where they are.

When I said "established", it doesn't mean the community lounge thread shuts its door to new comers. On top of my head, there are at least two "late" arrivals who didn't join the community lounge thread until the 2nd Quarter this year and they have become active participants. They made effort to be part of the group. So far, I haven't seen we chased any new face out of the community lounge door either.

I am not going to repeat myself about reading a few pages of OMNI or any lounge thread makes one in the know about OMNI/lounges. Subcultures in any live organization and human societies are a must.

I don't recall if you take part in any lounge or not, kipper, but I know Mary and Sharon are not. In your opinion, having a community lounge thread moving to OMNI would change it and/or make it better? OMNI doesn't have "it's own little clique and not open to everyone?"

The way I see what's happening is OMNIites are attacking lounge threads, thinking this will make OMNI not red-hair stepchild and/or second class. That finding-holes-in-lounge-threads approach is not going to help OMNIites to get what they want. It's not in line with the community spirit either.

Are we really thinking for the betterment of FT community? :confused:

As a recent new member to the Community Lounge, I have to agree with Lin. I stumbled upon it by accident, and the arguement that it is one big clique is far from correct. I hate to be blunt, but you couldn't be more wrong. It is one of the most welcoming places I have visited on FT, far more welcoming than many other places. It turns out many of the members live in/travel to the SFO area. As a new resident in SFO, literally not knowing anyone, the members of the lounge took me under the wing and I have made many great friends in the real world. The lounge has nothing but welcoming to many new people, myself included. This real life networking would have never took place had this lounge been located in the OMNI, as that is not a place I visit. This real life connection also led to a major meetup in Tokyo with FT members... I think the lounge deserves to stay where it is at.


I also have to ask this question. As a newer member to FT, what is the big deal about post count? Is it really that big of a deal to some of you? Its just a number. If it is so contentious about what counts and what doesn't, why not remove the post count altogether. Then everyone is on an even playing field.

As someone who posts frequently in PR, very often in the Lite Music thread, and in the Community Lounge, let me tell you the tone is completely different between the 3.

PR is what it is it is political and we display our biases and learn which side of the political aisle the other posters.
The music thread is more welcoming. Politics is rarely discussed but once in a while a song is linked as a favor to someone of the opposite political persuasion. Some personal details may be revealed.
The lounge is where you actually learn a little about people's likes and dislikes. It crosses airline affiliation which is a true benefit. As others have said you actually get to know and meet people. It is where the posters learned that I am particularly fond of gelato and am familiar with some nice pastry shops in the Chicago area. It is a much more relaxing and welcoming place.

Others have stated the differences in a much more eloquent manner than I but the conclusion is that making a lounge a sub forum of Omni would be the same as closing the lounge down.

I also don't care about post counts. Had Omni posts counted, I would probably be an evangelist but whoopdie doo. You can also take away counting my posts in the lounge. It won't matter to me because I don't go there to pad. Just don't move the lounges.

Had Omni posts counted, I would probably be an evangelist but whoopdie doo.

And I would probably be a "legend". I don't want to be a legend. It would only go further to prove that I post so much that I can not possibly have a life. :mad:

The problem is with the placement of lounge threads. They are off-topic threads that inflate post counts with such stimulating topics such as "Good morning" and "Good night". Since the TB currently holds the opinion that all off-topic threads belong in OMNI and their posts should not count, this is where Lounge threads rightfully belong.



A simple link stickied in the Community forum that redirects to the thread in the OMNI subforum would work exactly as the current thread.

it seems to me the easiest way to solve the "issue" ^

But , as some OMNIite are living their omni posts like a catharsis and they have an unquenchable thirst for recognition of their prose, do this will be enough ? :rolleyes:

it seems to me the easiest way to solve the "issue" ^

But , as some OMNIite are living their omni posts like a catharsis and they have an unquenchable thirst for recognition of their prose, do this will be enough ? :rolleyes:

It is a bad solution.

Let's look, for example, at the Delta Forum Lounge. Once it is in Omni, will the Delta Forum mods have responsibility for it or the Omni mods? This is more than a technical matter -- the mods on each forum see things differently, so you would either have a case where what is acceptable on the Delta Forum would be unacceptable on the Lounge or, what is acceptable in the rest of Omni would not be acceptable in the Lounge.

Secondly, newbies who do not have Omni access will not be able to post in the Lounge.

All of this (and possibly other problems which I have not thought of) would be only to pacify some people who are having temper tantrums because their Omni posts are not being counted.

Take away status I have earned on Delta or at Hilton and I might get upset. Take away my post count and I wouldn't care in the least.

It is a bad solution.

Let's look, for example, at the Delta Forum Lounge. Once it is in Omni, will the Delta Forum mods have responsibility for it or the Omni mods? This is more than a technical matter -- the mods on each forum see things differently, so you would either have a case where what is acceptable on the Delta Forum would be unacceptable on the Lounge or, what is acceptable in the rest of Omni would not be acceptable in the Lounge.

I agree that the Delta Forum mods should have responsability for it




Secondly, newbies who do not have Omni access will not be able to post in the Lounge.
that's the real issue !
BTW why is OMNI access limited ?
to protect the OMNIite of new points of view :D

All of this (and possibly other problems which I have not thought of) would be only to pacify some people who are having temper tantrums because their Omni posts are not being counted.
Vox populi Vox dei :o
you're right that's because some OMNIite are feeling undervalued(or maybe more :confused:) because their posts are not counted (the social value by the posts is a new concept of the "facebook homo sapiens" :))
BTW they hide behind a fight for fairness ;)



Take away status I have earned on Delta or at Hilton and I might get upset. Take away my post count and I wouldn't care in the least.
So please give some to me :D

So please give some to me :D

I already tried today to give some to RichMSN (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16819322-post72471.html) but was told it was impossible.

Once it is in Omni, will the Delta Forum mods have responsibility for it or the Omni mods?Actually a slight change to the solution might be to create a "Lounge Threads" forum. Any forum that wants/needs a lounge thread can have one created in this forum and a link created directly to the thread. The lounge thread can then be moderated by whoever moderates the forum that it is linked to (i.e. the Delta forum from your example.)

Secondly, newbies who do not have Omni access will not be able to post in the Lounge.The "lounge thread" forum doesn't have to have any access restrictions. In fact, if it is possible, it might even be "hidden" from normal view. Thus, the only way to access a thread there would be from the links in each of the "core" FT forums.

Take away status I have earned on Delta or at Hilton and I might get upset. Take away my post count and I wouldn't care in the least.Now this I definitely agree with. ^

it seems to me the easiest way to solve the "issue" ^

But , as some OMNIite are living their omni posts like a catharsis and they have an unquenchable thirst for recognition of their prose, do this will be enough ? :rolleyes:Is this what you think? Have you not read that this is about consistency?

I realize that some people live in the lounge threads and would like to know what you feel the difference is between the two off-topic areas?

BTW - your posts have now become borderline insulting. It is fine if you disagree, but to say that those who support this are like the Tea Party and Facebook homosapiens is just crossing the line.

Is this what you think? Have you not read that this is about consistency?

I realize that some people live in the lounge threads and would like to know what you feel the difference is between the two off-topic areas?

BTW - your posts have now become borderline insulting. It is fine if you disagree, but to say that those who support this are like the Tea Party and Facebook homosapiens is just crossing the line.

I too would like to know why the lounge threads are so different from OMNI.

To me, you've summed it up. It's about consistency. If off-topic posts are allowed in the main forums and posters receive credit, why shouldn't OMNI posts count too?

Mary--I really think there's a tear in the space time continuum... :) We're agreeing far too often, and I agree with everything in your post. Some of the posts have become rather insulting.

Let's look, for example, at the Delta Forum Lounge. Once it is in Omni, will the Delta Forum mods have responsibility for it or the Omni mods? This is more than a technical matter -- the mods on each forum see things differently, so you would either have a case where what is acceptable on the Delta Forum would be unacceptable on the Lounge or, what is acceptable in the rest of Omni would not be acceptable in the Lounge.I agree that the Delta Forum mods should have responsability for it


From my understanding how the board software works, then the DL forum mods (and the mods of all the other forums with a lounge thread) would have to become OMNI mods as well. I'm not sure how well being "volunteered" for more responsibilities would go over.

From my understanding how the board software works, then the DL forum mods (and the mods of all the other forums with a lounge thread) would have to become OMNI mods as well. I'm not sure how well being "volunteered" for more responsibilities would go over.

The DL Forum mod should only moderate the DL Lounge in OMNI IMO

Then FT may have to migrate to another board platform for your proposal to work, but since IB owns the one in use, the likelihood of that happening is slim.

I also have to ask this question. As a newer member to FT, what is the big deal about post count? Is it really that big of a deal to some of you? Its just a number. If it is so contentious about what counts and what doesn't, why not remove the post count altogether. Then everyone is on an even playing field.

The best I can figure is that as FlyerTalkers, we are in the habit of collecting things. We rack up the highest amount of miles, points, status, upgrades, etc. as are humanly possible.

I think racking up posts is just more of that same mindset.

The DL Forum mod should only moderate the DL Lounge in OMNI IMO

I don't think the board software is anywhere near enough sophisticated to allow this.

It doesn't even allow not counting posts in a Lounge thread in an airline forum. I doubt it would allow a DL Mod, for example, to moderate a Lounge thread in a totally different forum.

I'm not a techie but am just reporting the scuttlebutt I hear from the IB and FT admins on occasion.

Mary, at least on the Delta Forum, the Lounge is the first thread many new members go to. They test the waters, ask some questions, and eventually start posting on the regular threads.Agree completely. The Delta Lounge is just fine where it is .

David

THAT is a solution to a problem that never exists. There's never a problem with the placement of lounge threads. We are not in Technical Issues Forum asking how to be "redirected." :rolleyes:

+1

Oh, goody. I just added to my post count.


Seriously, does one thread in a forum throw your day into such a tizzy that you need to conspire against it? If you don't like a thread, don't read it!

Coincident with my opposition to allowing OMNI posts to count toward post counts, I fully support finding a way to move any off-topic thread into a forum that also doesn't count. People can still subscribe to threads in these other fora, and can set bookmarks to take them straight to the first unread post (since that functionality is now fixed). No reason to have "lounge" posts count toward actual post count IMO.

I really don't know why this is such a concern now; it seems to me that the lounge thread activity has dropped off significantly from what it used to be.

... a sort of foil that highlights some concern about counting (or not) of posts made in OMNI threads (and perhaps elsewhere) that are calculated and displayed as part of publicly-viewable FT member profiles.

. I've seen a couple of the lounges, and never felt that they were aimed to be inclusive, not by design, but by the fact the same few posters seem to dominate, and thus, never really appealed. OMNI on the other hand seemed much more welcoming

I have never found OMNI to be welcoming.... I'd list it as confrontational, at best. (this isn't meant to be bad, just to show that my view is just the opposite of yours).

Whereas I find the lounge threads to be pretty relaxed.

I would not participate in a lounge thread in OMNI.

I guess it just depends on your view. Different strokes for different folks.

I have never found OMNI to be welcoming.... I'd list it as confrontational, at best.

Are you referring to Omni-lite or Omni PR? I'd be surprised if Omni-lite was considered confrontational. If you look at threads in both, you'll see the topics are quite different ;)

Cheers.

I was about to say the same thing Sharon :)

I suspect Omni P/R is what has given both Omnis (and the single Omni before it was split) the reputation it has.

Omni-lite is just as friendly and helpful as the lounge threads, and perhaps it even has a broader range of experience since people from all over FT participate, not just those in a specific forum.

...I've seen a couple of the lounges, ...., never really appealed. <snip>

In fact, why don't we rename the boards into 'rooms'? The airlines become e.g. "The Maple Leaf Lounge", "The Kris Lounge" etc, the hotel boards become "The Starwood Lobby" etc. The dining buzz becomes "The Restaurant", travel with children becomes "The Creche", women travellers becomes "The Ladies Room", etc etc etc.
If you are serious about renaming something that really doesn't appeal to you, would you please start another new thread so this thread can stay focused? With both "OMNI" and "Lounge" in the thread title, this suggestion thread has been crowded enough.

In case you didn't know, renaming a forum name takes a formal TB motion to make it happen on FT. Not to mention there is no lounge forum yet, subforum or not. FWIW, there is The TalkBoard Guidelines: How to suggest new forum and/or subforum (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/11201697-post2.html). @:-)

I really don't think it's a good practice to address or attack all OMNI issues in every possible different TB thread, when each TB thread clearly has its own focus and topic at hand.

I mostly agree. I've seen a couple of the lounges, and never felt that they were aimed to be inclusive, not by design, but by the fact the same few posters seem to dominate, and thus, never really appealed. OMNI on the other hand seemed much more welcoming, ever the PR, where yes, we argue, we disagree, but we get to know what makes one another tick (or maybe just who is really bored that day and will argue black is white, just for the craic).

I've learnt tons from these boards, both the practical (travel and otherwise) and the theoretical (I have studied American politics in a long time, so it is interesting seeing quite how much it seems to matter whether someone is Rep or Dem, a tea partier (still working on that definition!) a liberal, a con, or a loonie (oh wait, that's Canadian )

OMNI is no different to e.g. dining buzz, no different to lounges, etc. Just like when people go to a pub, they may sit at the bar (banter with strangers, politics and religion fair game), sit at a table with friends (and talk about common interests which may or may not wander off topic), or join the meeting in the snug where the local parish council are discussing the parking by-laws (with the table rapped by the chair if people mention hedge cutting issues!) the forum caters to different personalities. It's all still a part of the place.

In fact, why don't we rename the boards into 'rooms'? The airlines become e.g. "The Maple Leaf Lounge", "The Kris Lounge" etc, the hotel boards become "The Starwood Lobby" etc. The dining buzz becomes "The Restaurant", travel with children becomes "The Creche", women travellers becomes "The Ladies Room", etc etc etc.

(for those with a sense of deja vu, I am reposting to avoid confusion as per mod suggestion).

OK, I give up! I was trying to Quote Post 39 and it didn't work. I quit, my post can stand alone (although to make sense, you should know it was Mary that I was agreeing with!)

If you are serious about renaming something that really doesn't appeal to you, would you please start another new thread so this thread can stay focused? With both "OMNI" and "Lounge" in the thread title, this suggestion thread has been crowded enough.

In case you didn't know, renaming a forum name takes a formal TB motion to make it happen on FT. Not to mention there is no lounge forum yet, subforum or not. FWIW, there is The TalkBoard Guidelines: How to suggest new forum and/or subforum (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/11201697-post2.html). @:-)

I really don't think it's a good practice to address or attack all OMNI issues in every possible different TB thread, when each TB thread clearly has its own focus and topic at hand.

People seem somewhat confused about what a lounge is for versus what an OMNI is for (and seriously, did anyone know what an OMNI was off the top of their head?) Renaming boards into 'rooms' is simply a different way of seeing the same conversation as is being discussed, that is, that the whole forum is a series of rooms, where popping into the 'Delta' lounge is like going into a room with likeminded people, and it doesn't matter, in so far as I can see, whether that lounge is accessed to the right of the 'nursery' or the left, as long as people know where it is (which a link would do).

People seem somewhat confused about what a lounge is for versus what an OMNI is for (and seriously, did anyone know what an OMNI was off the top of their head?)

Oh, trust me. I not only know what OMNI is for but also know it much longer than you do. I happen to "witness" some changes in OMNI while you were not there. Not trying to pull rank on your "Join Date", just stating a simple fact.

If you read my earlier posts, you'd know I also know what the Community Lounge Thread is for, on top of that, it's why and how.

This suggestion thread is about relocating all lounge threads to OMNI and creating a subforum for them. That is also a no-go, IMHO, knowing both OMNI and the lounge thread I take part in.

OK, this suggestion is just ridiculous when you take Flyertalk as a whole. I don't know about US airline forum lounge threads. Maybe they have gotten out of control and should be moderated better. But our Euro lounge threads cause no problems. And note that we don't use English in the AF Lounge thread. Most all the posts are in French. Are you going to now accept French in Omni? No, let's let the French people have their little (and I do mean little) lounge thread in the AF forum. And there is an LH M&M thread where you can see Deutsche posts.

Lastly, if the management of Flyertalk chooses to allow moderators to allow full on Omni in certain few lounge threads, then what can we do about it? This suggestion doesn't do anything really. Won't the moderators and participants just create another thread and call it, maybe, the UA Community thread, in the UA forum and just keep on doing the same thing?

Some people just don't like Omni. I've been on Flyertalk since the beginning and of my many thousands of posts, only about 10% are in Omni, and those were mostly from a simpler time. To me, it's 99% nonsense nowadays, IMHO of course.

Oh, trust me. I not only know what OMNI is for but also know it much longer than you do. I happen to "witness" some changes in OMNI while you were not there. Not trying to pull rank on your "Join Date", just stating a simple fact.

If you read my earlier posts, you'd know I also know what the Community Lounge Thread is for, on top of that, it's why and how.

This suggestion thread is about relocating all lounge threads to OMNI and creating a subforum for them. That is also a no-go, IMHO, knowing both OMNI and the lounge thread I take part in.

Super, you know what everything is for. That's great. I never suggested that you didn't, I said that 'people' (as in multiple) don't find it so clear - especially those who haven't been around for very long. If you are a new user (we'll grant 180 days / 180 posts for argument's sake) and you see "Miles and Points", "Travel and Dining" and "Community" at the top of the page, it is fairly clear what those forums are. You see OMNI - who knows what that is / means (as a Canadian resident for example, it is a TV station).

If you were to rename OMNI with something that makes sense to people not already familiar with the forum, like "lounge" (a commonly used term on several forums I know) it is clear it is the 'off topic' section, and within that section you could have a "Politics and Religion lounge", a "General Lounge" and all the specific lounges that exist, the "Delta Lounge", the "AF Lounge" etc. I don't see what the issue is with grouping them under one heading - I don't think anyone is suggesting that all the lounges get merged into one so you have Delta-ites and Air France people talking on the same posts, there would still be the individual "lounges".

Oh, trust me. I not only know what OMNI is for but also know it much longer than you do. I happen to "witness" some changes in OMNI while you were not there. Not trying to pull rank on your "Join Date", just stating a simple fact.

If you read my earlier posts, you'd know I also know what the Community Lounge Thread is for, on top of that, it's why and how.

This suggestion thread is about relocating all lounge threads to OMNI and creating a subforum for them. That is also a no-go, IMHO, knowing both OMNI and the lounge thread I take part in.
My thoughts on this, after reading the discussion and such, are, if the motion to count OMNI posts does not count:


Create an OMNI-Lounge forum. Keep it as a separate forum from OMNI-lite and OMNI P/R. Do not create it as a sub-forum of OMNI.
Have this OMNI Lounge forum open to all members.
Move all lounge threads (Community Buzz, airline forums, etc) to this new forum, leaving a redirect sticky at the top of each forum, to that applicable lounge thread.


Those who regularly use the lounge threads don't have any changes in how they reach the lounge threads, and don't see much, if any difference, in their viewing pleasure or their sense of community.

My thoughts on this, after reading the discussion and such, are, if the motion to count OMNI posts does not count:


Create an OMNI-Lounge forum. Keep it as a separate forum from OMNI-lite and OMNI P/R. Do not create it as a sub-forum of OMNI.
Have this OMNI Lounge forum open to all members.
Move all lounge threads (Community Buzz, airline forums, etc) to this new forum, leaving a redirect sticky at the top of each forum, to that applicable lounge thread.


I don't know if you read my post above, but will you be accepting multiple languages in your super lounge forum? What happens if you create this, and no one comes? And they start new community threads in their airline forum? And the moderators let them? Think it through.

I don't know if you read my post above, but will you be accepting multiple languages in your super lounge forum? What happens if you create this, and no one comes? And they start new community threads in their airline forum? And the moderators let them? Think it through.
There's nothing saying that the AF Lounge couldn't continue in French. It wouldn't be an OMNI subforum, it would be a separate forum that was treated like OMNI.

Why would people create new lounge threads in their forums, when the existing lounge thread was there, albeit as a sticky with a redirect? You're familiar with how a moved thread can show up in its old forum, but that clicking on that link redirects you to the new forum? That's what this would be, but with a sticky, so that the lounge thread was ALWAYS one of the first threads on the first page of its old forum.

Why would people create new lounge threads in their forums, when the existing lounge thread was there.

Probably for the exact same reason they did it in the first place.

Probably for the exact same reason they did it in the first place.
Explain to me though, how, having a link in the forum, just like a normal thread link, but with a redirect would be different than it being in the same forum?

Explain to me though, how, having a link in the forum, just like a normal thread link, but with a redirect would be different than it being in the same forum?

First explain to me what difference it makes if you have the link in the forum, or a thread in the forum? Both show up in the airline forum so to most people it would be exactly the same thing.

Enough, it's well past happy hour and I haven't had my cocktail yet.

Super, you know what everything is for.
No, that's not what I said. I only know that I know much less than what I don't know.

I was merely pointing out my understanding of and participation in both OMNI and lounge threads is longer than you and that's how I base my position in this thread. That's it. You do make most OMNI posts than I, Much more. But that doesn't mean you fully know the OMNI history and the OMNI way before your join date. There's an OMNI or two you never ever know.

I didn't and don't try to apply what I know about something from somewhere else to FT community. And I don't speak for everyone since everybody is entitled to her/his own opinions.

If you were to rename OMNI with something that makes sense to people...
Renaming OMNI, that's not this thread is about, is it? :confused:

"lounge" (a commonly used term on several forums I know) it is clear it is the 'off topic' section, and within that section you could have a "Politics and Religion lounge", a "General Lounge" and all the specific lounges that exist, the "Delta Lounge", the "AF Lounge" etc. I don't see what the issue is with grouping them under one heading - I don't think anyone is suggesting that all the lounges get merged into one so you have Delta-ites and Air France people talking on the same posts, there would still be the individual "lounges".

In case you didn't really read my earlier post, allow me to quote myself:

In case you didn't know, renaming a forum name takes a formal TB motion to make it happen on FT. Not to mention there is no lounge forum yet, subforum or not. FWIW, there is The TalkBoard Guidelines: How to suggest new forum and/or subforum (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/11201697-post2.html). @:-)


The way TB works is to discuss one topic in one thread. Since this thread is NOT about renaming any forum, which is clearly what you've been describing and selling, I would strongly suggest you to start a new thread to solicit your idea about renaming OMNI and lounges. To borrow your own words, I don't see what the issue is to start a new thread for a different topic. Not to mention there's an established guideline for doing so.

Can we please stay on topic here? With due respect, with the way you are suggesting, all I can say is you really don't quite understand the dynamics of both OMNI and lounge threads on FT. At least not the OMNI and lounge thread I know.

Those who regularly use the lounge threads don't have any changes in how they reach the lounge threads, and don't see much, if any difference, in their viewing pleasure or their sense of community.
Explain to me though, how, having a link in the forum, just like a normal thread link, but with a redirect would be different than it being in the same forum?

Redirecting all lounge threads to OMNI is technically feasible but the existence of lounge threads is NOT a technical question and never will be. You can't use technology to address philosophical pursuit.

Just like enabling photos in OMNI is not a technical issue or challenge to start with for those advocates. For us saying what's wrong with embedded photos was/is talking to deaf ears. ;)

First explain to me what difference it makes if you have the link in the forum, or a thread in the forum? Both show up in the airline forum so to most people it would be exactly the same thing.

Enough, it's well past happy hour and I haven't had my cocktail yet.
If the lounge thread were to live in a new "OMNI-Lounge" forum, where posts weren't counted (like they aren't counted in OMNI), but which was not a sub-forum of OMNI, and as such, did not have the post/days access requirement, it would do away with the double-standard treatment of OT material.

If the link in each airline/community forum was simply a redirect to the new forum, it would be like the exact same thing, which was my point. It would just have a different home on the server, where posts didn't count.

If the lounge thread were to live in a new "OMNI-Lounge" forum, where posts weren't counted (like they aren't counted in OMNI), but which was not a sub-forum of OMNI, and as such, did not have the post/days access requirement, it would do away with the double-standard treatment of OT material.

If the link in each airline/community forum was simply a redirect to the new forum, it would be like the exact same thing, which was my point. It would just have a different home on the server, where posts didn't count.

Honestly, what is the big deal about the lounge threads existing in the individual forums? And how does a re-direct 'solve' the problem? The 'thread' will still show as being in the airline forum. Is this all because of post counts? Does anyone really care?(well, I guess the answer to this is 'yes'.) And if they do, why? I am willing to donate my post count to anyone who wants it. The lounge threads usually maintain a high degree of civil that the forums themselves don't maintain, lets keep them there.

Honestly, what is the big deal about the lounge threads existing in the individual forums? And how does a re-direct 'solve' the problem? The 'thread' will still show as being in the airline forum. Is this all because of post counts? Does anyone really care?(well, I guess the answer to this is 'yes'.) And if they do, why? I am willing to donate my post count to anyone who wants it. The lounge threads usually maintain a high degree of civil that the forums themselves don't maintain, lets keep them there.
It solves the problem of the inconsistency between OT posts and the fact that in airline forums and such, OT posts, from "good morning," or "how's the weather," in lounge threads count, while those with far more substance in OMNI don't count.

Honestly, what is the big deal about the lounge threads existing in the individual forums? And how does a re-direct 'solve' the problem? The 'thread' will still show as being in the airline forum. Is this all because of post counts? Does anyone really care?(well, I guess the answer to this is 'yes'.) And if they do, why? I am willing to donate my post count to anyone who wants it. The lounge threads usually maintain a high degree of civil that the forums themselves don't maintain, lets keep them there.

Yes apparently some people do care about post counts. Unfortunately, that is why this pointless debate is occurring.

It solves the problem of the inconsistency between OT posts and the fact that in airline forums and such, OT posts, from "good morning," or "how's the weather," in lounge threads count, while those with far more substance in OMNI don't count.

I suppose we should not count any "+1" posts since they are of little substance. I can't believe there's more concern over this than the vitriolic posts that are allowed to be tossed back and forth.

Yes apparently some people do care about post counts. Unfortunately, that is why this pointless debate is occurring.

Not to forget this so called OT-and/or-subforum "creative" spin also gives some a loophole platform to address issues of moderation, or moderators in the public. Just saying. ;)

While TB can't direct the moderators to act, ...

Quite frankly, I consider this entire thread to be asinine.

We are talking about establishing a new subform simply to pacify people throwing temper tantrums because their Omni posts are not counted but Lounge posts are. Post counts are so meaningless that this is truly a case of the tail wagging the dog.

I do not give a crap how many posts show under my name but I definitely want the Delta Forum Lounge Thread to remain in the Delta Forum.

I can well foresee a situation where Subject X, which concerns something that Delta did, will be extremely controversial and causing very bad feelings on the Forum (yes, it has happened in the past). The Delta moderators, feeling that it has been discussed to death, and seeking to cool off tempers, decide that no further posts on Subject X will be allowed.

The Omni mods, who are used to a much different standard of what is or is not permissible, do not see this issue in the same light as the Delta mods. Hence, they allow it when Situation X is discussed on the Delta Forum Lounge Thread -- which keeps fanning the flames of discord on the Forum.

It is ridiculous to open ourselves to this kind of situation just because some people are crying, "Waa! Waa! My Omni posts are not being counted but your Lounge posts are!"

...I do not give a crap how many posts show under my name but I definitely want the Delta Forum Lounge Thread to remain in the Delta Forum....I agree completely with this statement and now am proceeding to unsubscribe to this useless thread.

I'm only one vote on TB but I'm certainly not in support of moving the Lounge threads out of their current forums.

As others have said, I feel they foster a sense of community and goodwill in their respective forums. Plus, as an example, the Delta Lounge thread has spawned an awful lot of fun get-togethers and DO's and has enhanced a number of personal friendships.

Moving these Lounges to another forum would destroy much of this camaraderie IMO. Plus, as OMNI is currently configured, it would not allow any newbies to participate and that's a major downside to me.

Quite frankly, I consider this entire thread to be asinine.
Dov, you must have just read this thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travelbuzz/1244773-what-silliest-thread-flyertalk.html) over TravelBuzz! Forum, haven't you? :D

It solves the problem of the inconsistency between OT posts and the fact that in airline forums and such, OT posts, from "good morning," or "how's the weather," in lounge threads count, while those with far more substance in OMNI don't count.

there are dozens of threads other than the "Good Morning" or "How's the weather"/Lounges Threads and you know them (and increase your posts account with) perfectly ;)

Few examples :
Boingo (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16860737-post6.html)
Coke Reward (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16859030-post4561.html)
healthier lifestyle (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16094744-post1.html)
Chicken Biscuit (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16857377-post26.html)
favourite breakfast (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16181865-post2.html)
favourite gin (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16850344-post125.html)

So in the name of the Consistency you should ask them to be moved in Omni, shouldn't you ? :p

there are dozens of threads other than the "Good Morning" or "How's the weather"/Lounges Threads and you know them (and increase your posts account with) perfectly ;)

Few examples :
Boingo (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16860737-post6.html)
Coke Reward (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16859030-post4561.html)
healthier lifestyle (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16094744-post1.html)
Chicken Biscuit (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16857377-post26.html)
favourite breakfast (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16181865-post2.html)
favourite gin (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16850344-post125.html)

So in the name of the Consistency you should ask them to be moved in Omni, shouldn't you ? :p
The threads you quote are in the appropriate forums for the topic discussed in that thread. I will also mention that Boingo is great for use in airports, which, I'd guess, means it pertains to... GASP!!! Air travel!!!

Like Mary said:
No on is claiming there aren't non-travel related posts on FT. Entire forums, such as Dining Buzz, which talks about food while traveling and food in general, is one of them.

We're talking about some OT posts count and others don't.
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16864355-post345.html

The threads you quote are in the appropriate forums for the topic discussed in that thread. I will also mention that Boingo is great for use in airports, which, I'd guess, means it pertains to... GASP!!! Air travel!!!

Like Mary said:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16864355-post345.html

Boingo By Venue :

Public Space / Public Building 195,306
Hotel / Resort 32,588
Cafe 30,666
Restaurant 18,285
Airport 1,480


And actually wearing a sweater when the air conditioning is too cold is useful in an airport, means it pertains to... GASP!!! Air travel!!! :D

I am sorry but I think that your position is purely subjective and your personal interests related to the pattern of increase of your posts account.:p

If not, why you don't accept that all off-topic threads are moved to Omni?:confused:
Isn't that the real Consistency that you say you are calling for ?