New forum setup - recommended options and steps?

[cdub]

I'm playing around with a fresh install of XF on a new site I'm developing and it's been a LONG time since I started an XF forum (or any forum that is) from scratch. (My main forum is 20+ years old)

What are some recommended first setup steps in terms of options, trophy setup, user title ladder, nodes, etc?

Currently I have 4 nodes which is I think what I'll start with.

• Announcements
• Support
• Introductions
• Club Discussions

I've gone through each option setting and I think I've got everything but I'm worried I missed something.

What does everyone recommend doing upon initial setup? Maybe I'll look into customizing reactions next.

Site is private currently and it'll be a while before I launch. It's just been a LONG time since I started fresh. Pretty fun actually.

I'm going to hold off on styles and addons for now. I'll keep it simple in that regard.

 

[Faust]

Keep it as simple as possible and avoid third party addons. If the developer decide to leave, it will be frustrating.

Depending on your niche, personally I prefer to have a Home Page which will show to the guests what's my forum about.

 

[cdub]

I'll look into customizing reactions next.

Added these for fun.

 

[Alvin63]

I use Bob's Article Management System as a home page. And using one of Pixel exit styles is a good start You get lots of extra facilities and a clean look.

Whether you use a style or not, with my second forum I spent quite a bit of time playing around with colour schemes. A ridiculous amount of time on the logo and header.

 

[cdub]

I use Bob's Article Management System as a home page. And using one of Pixel exit styles is a good start

That's a given. But I'm not doing any extra add-ons or styles for now... Just asking about stock XF settings to go through and set

 

[Paul B]

A few things off the top of my head.

• permissions
• attachment settings
• prefixes
• poll options
• thread types: polls, articles, questions
• media sites

 

[Wing]

Do something extremely streamlined, unique, and creative. That’s the only way to succeed these days

 

[Suzanne O]

Don't be afraid to go researching some sites that have big forums.
It might give you a helping hand with some of the ideas.