DISQUS

This was news to me, too. I can't believe I hadn't even heard of Google profiles prior to reading this article. I have now set one up (unfortunately my first five choices of URL were taken - typical!), and verified my name - odd that you can only do that through Knol, though.

I wonder how long it takes after publishing your profile for it to appear in the search results - not getting anything yet for my profile or yours, Justin.

- Martin

All it takes is a quick Google search to see all the software packages that allow anyone to start their own dating site for minimal cost. They all have similar features to those offered by the large players in the market, so premium (ie paid for) dating sites will need to work harder to justify their fees if they want to survive.

- Martin Reed

Actually, I lie. I done the marathon in 2006. I wonder if running has a detrimental effect on memory?!? It blocks out the pain and the date!!

- Martin

I agree. I recently wrote a blog post about why you shouldn't be jealous of the competition, but also explain why online communities are inherently difficult to compare against one another anyway: http://tinyurl.com/6mb93s

Oh, and I too threw myself around a marathon course: London, 2007. I feel your pain (but also the sense of achievement).

- Martin

Great interview (oh, and thanks for the link love Rich). I definitely think you and your readers will find a lot of value in Rich's blog, Chuck - you made a great choice!

- Martin

Hey Jake
Please don't include this comment in the draw, as I will be unable to attend. I do just want to say though, that these events look hugely valuable. Hopefully I can make an appearance next year!
- Martin Reed

These are some very good points, in particular point #5. It is important for community managers/moderators to provide as safe an environment as possible for their members (regardless of age), however it is often forgotten that when it comes to the safety of children online, parents need to take an active role, too.

- Martin Reed

There you go, I think you answered the question for yourself in that comment alone!

- Martin Reed

Online Communitiess last blog post..Be more productive by recognising the blogging seesaw

I liked the initial idea behind this site, but cannot fathom why Tyler has setup a forum on Publisher Spot rather than merging the site with PublisherForums.com. He now seems to be competing... against himself!

- Martin Reed

Online Communitiess last blog post..How to motivate online community moderators

Just to let you know the link to your 'Birth of an Apple Store' is broken as you have a space in the URL.

- Martin Reed

Hi Jake - Thanks for the mention; glad you enjoyed the article.

- Martin Reed

Erin puts half of every other paycheck into a savings account?! Does she not have to pay rent, utilities or food?!?

- Martin Reed

This conference looks great - unfortunately it is too late for me to arrange coming over from the UK for it this year. However, I am pretty sure I'll be over next year!

- Martin Reed

Hey Jake, thanks for the link - I am glad you liked the article. I like the audio option you have for your posts. Do you know how often it is used?

- Martin Reed

Hey, thanks for the link - it's good to see you are still blogging away here!

- Martin Reed

Ha ha, good one Mr Cow. You know how to bring attention to an important issue.

- Martin Reed

All very interesting. I don't mean to sound egotistical but you may like to check out my blog for tips and advice on setting up a successful forum. For a start, right now you simply have too many categories - this only draws attention to the fact there isn't much activity. This is something that dissuades visitors from registering.

In any case, good luck with your new venture!

- Martin Reed

Welcome back! I am glad to hear that your wife is well and look forward to reading your future articles.

- Martin Reed

I had never considered this in such an in-depth way before. I often call my content 'articles' but interchange between that and 'posts' - I am happy having my content referred to using either term.

- Martin Reed

It is far easier to offer advice than follow it yourself!

- Martin Reed

Thanks for the link love, Daniel :)

- Martin Reed

I gave CrazyEgg a try, too and was impressed with the results.

If interested, you can see my review at:

http://www.communityspark.com/using-heatmaps-to...

I'm catching up with you!!!

- Martin Reed

Hey Daniel - thank you so much for the link :)

- Martin Reed

I'll be landing in NYC and staying in Brooklyn for a week or so, then I'll be travelling around.

I want to get out to Chicago as I have never been there. I also want to see upstate New York, and maybe even get back out to Vegas again.

I'll be where the wind takes me!

- Martin Reed