As you probably know, they are working on developing a real-time chat room for FlyerTalk, (in addition to the BB, not instead of.)

The thing I like best about FlyerTalk now is that the BB posts are so complete and usually very well thought out and crafted, something rarely seen in live chat rooms. It is also of great value to me that I can go back and review topics that relate to my current needs.

Do we need or want a live chat room? How do you feel that a live chat room would impact Flyer Talk?

[This message has been edited by Punki (edited 11-24-1999).]

Indifferent. As the technology improves, so does FT.

Letters vs phone calls? Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Yet your point is well taken and I do hope the real time nature of it will not result in more "hothead" and "nasty" posts due to the possible likely need for greater restraint of impulsive, nasty, and reflexive criticism.

I tired of chat rooms long ago, I found I seldom liked or trusted those I met. It could be of use on this forum if we want to talk in real time, though I don't see a real need for it myself.

I prefer the considered aproach that this type of board offers.

Stewart.

If put to a vote, I would not personally be interested in the chat room. I was disappointed to see the option proposed because I am afraid that if I don't hang out in a chat room, I may miss out on something. Now when I suddenly start flying an airline I've never flown before, I can go to that topic and see everything that has been part of the previous conversations.

I could see this eventually dividing the board into "chatters" and posters. Maybe not.

I think I'm unliklely to use the chat room. I prefer the more structured BB where information can be more considered and verified as necessary by other users. I supose the chat room is fine for those that want it, but is in essence a different type of forum. I share Doc's concern about the possible increase in flames arising from it and I think it also increases the potential for trolls. I am also concerned that it may decrease the number of posts to the BB as some users say 'well it's in the chat room'. However, it may also be convenient for those FTs who know each other in person, particularly if there is the capacity to hold private conversations.

All that said, I don't think our opinion really makes any difference. The Powers That Be at FlyerTalk have their own agenda and we are merely advertsing fodder for them. Thus, as promised, we will have a chat room.

[This message has been edited by james (edited 11-24-1999).]

I agree with the views expressed, especially those of james.

PAWS down on Chat rooms.

I think the BB is enough for us, and if we need to talk one-on-one there are a host of instant message services, e-mail, letters, phone and best of all... FLyertalk get togethers!

This is the Acting Commander Catcop...newself who is officially in charge right now! I will probably not visit the chat room because I find it easier to find the information on the BB. Besides, I wouldn't be able to drink my beer if I was constantly typing trying to keep up with the chatter!

newself:

I'm glad you were able to put your beer down long enough to type us that short message (or maybe you used only one hand?).

[This message has been edited by TravelWeary (edited 11-24-1999).]

Thumbs down on any chat room format.

A mildly dissenting opinion: since I know quite a few FT'ers personally, it might be fun to log in, see who's around, and have a chat with some of my buds while, say, stuck waiting out an ATC delay at SFO. So I'll vote yes.

[This message has been edited by dgolds (edited 11-24-1999).]

Good work, Acting CMDR CATCOP! Just watch that beer!

dgolds has a good point. I frequently use AOL AIM to chat when hanging out in airports. Frequently have had a lot of fun talking with my sibs and friends. Actually that's how I hooked up with Comicwoman prior to the www.WilyWomenWebFlyers.com meeting in Chicaco.

That would be a fun use of the FlyerTalk Chat!

[This message has been edited by Punki (edited 11-24-1999).]

Not a really big fan of chat rooms, but they could be useful, particularly for those arranging or going to FT get togethers, like PiP. The immediate response would help in coordinating, scheduling, last minute problems, etc.

I figure chat will die fast....as noted above, the craftily worded replies are what I truly love about FT.

Dorian