Dave:
DC> A survey sounds like a good idea.
Definitely a good idea!  Instead of second guessing the users, it would
make more sense for the sysops to simply ask them what they want.
DC> Personally speaking, I don't play games on the boards I call.
Boards that offer games need a lot of phone lines or the game players will
tie up the system, frustrating those who want to retrieve their mail.
DC> but I call different boards that carry subjects I am interested in.
Specializing in one particular subject is certainly one way to ensure the
success of the board.  There are two cautions though: (a) the sysop would 
have to be extremely interested in the subject or he/she will become bored, 
and (b) many sysops seem to want to run meag-boards with thousands of 
users.  Specialty boards typically attract only a few hundred; not nearly 
enough to satisfy the cravings of the empire builders out there. 
DC> it's not unusual for me to spend 4 to 5 hours each night on the modem
DC> (much to the chagrin of my wife) but it keeps me out of the bars.
Any good divorce attorneys out your way? 
DC> I don't do the internet (yet) but when I get sufficiently upgraded,
DC> I'll probably give it a try through a local provider...
Is there a freenet in your area?  If so, it would provide a good way to
get your feet wet before spending money with an ISP.
 
DC> providing Internet E-mail service which is apparently why quite a few
DC> people want to use the 'net.
Much to the chagrin of the merchandisers who view the Internet as the
world's biggest shopping mall, e-mail is still the number one reason that
people use the Internet.
Richard
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 Richard Portsmouth  -  Internet: af903@torfree.net   FidoNet: 1:250/518
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