Posted by Mark H. on April 25, 2002, at 15:48:24
In reply to Re: interested in helping out?, posted by Dr. Bob on April 25, 2002, at 14:16:29
I have a few serious suggestions:
1.) Anyone subbing for Dr. Bob should expect to check the boards every couple of hours from about 8 AM to 10 PM every day. I appreciate that Dr. Bob does not want to put that level of expectation on anyone, but that's what it actually takes to catch problems early and to be available to answer questions for fellow board members. Dr. Bob will disagree out of consideration for those who sub, but this is what it takes to do a good job, in my opinion.
2.) I think it would work fine for more than one person at a time to have access to the admin action menu. Babblers sharing admin duties could coordinate and support each other using private email.
3.) Kiddo is my first choice for the lead job this time based on her past experience behind the scenes. She's much better qualified than I am, and she quietly supports this board in countless ways. She could ask Wendy and anyone else interested (including me) to give her a hand, either through direct access to the action menu or through email alerts and support, or both.
4.) Dr. Bob taught me to trust the community to take care of itself, to interfere as little as possible, and then to act decisively as needed to resolve problems.
5.) Subs can always resort to saying (as I did once or twice), "This is my decision in this matter. If you disagree, please take it up directly with Dr. Bob on his return." It helps both the sub and the person receiving the warning to remember that it's Dr. Bob's board, and that we are all in this together as participants, doing the best we can (and learning as we go).
I encourage everyone who has been on the board for awhile and has a good feel for what is needed to volunteer, whether during APA week or for Dr. Bob's future absences. The more people who have this experience, the better. Many of the conflicts discussed on PBA would not arise if more people had opportunities to serve the admin function for a few days to see what it's like to have responsibility for the welfare of the whole community. It's worthwhile, it's enjoyable and, if you're like me, you'll be greatly relieved when Dr. Bob returns!
With sincere appreciation,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:4490
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20020420/msgs/4608.html