Administrative Sparkle

I just finished reading an article about whether or not blog comments are essential to a site, such as this, or not.  The biggest issue that  comes up from having a comment section on a site has to do with controlling spam, self-advertising, and just random crap.  I take a couple of precautions for this.  One is that I moderate comments seeing that it reflects what is written, as well as information that contributes to others using a plugin called Diques Comment System.  I also use the WP-SpamFree plugin.  I have found these two tools to be very helpful in managing the degree of random comments and allows me to focus on the quality comments.  It is an extra step, but it also allows me to stay on track and respond in a timely manner.

I don’t plan to discontinue them at this time because I believe there is more than one point of view.  This allows others with similar experience in what I write about to contribute or an alternative way of doing the same task.  It also allows a person to disagree and detail why, an alternative point of view.  I use Feed Reader to manage quite a few blogs that I like to keep up with that provides me lots of ideas and suggestions, and some purely for entertainment.  Personally, I find the comments entertaining and informative.

It could be viewed as self-aggrandizing that is if you are merely looking for a “pat on the back.”  I appreciate the comments for two reasons, the opportunity for someone to give their feedback and the opportunity for others to provide their experience and suggestions.  Personally, I comment on someone’s blog when I feel I have something of value to contribute.  Many times, as I generally read through my Feed Reader, I don’t get to view the comments, but can quickly read through the articles.  I will click on the article link if I am interested in what comments others have made or would like to contribute a comment myself.

At this point, I don’t believe that a comment section is a “make or break” option for a website.  However, I believe it is the quality of the content that dictates a websites traffic.  If you provide quality content that is written well, your followers will come.  I must admit that I don’t believe I get that much commenting.  I don’t know if that is good or bad, but do find my website traffic increasing over time.  This I track with both a Google Analytics plugin and FeedBurner.  If people find your information interesting, they will keep coming back and will refer others who may enjoy it as well.  As you will see on my sidebar, I share many of my favorites to you as I love sharing really great things, opportunities, and ideas.  As if you couldn’t tell by the information that I write on here to share.

I would love to know your view on comments, whether you use them or not, and your personal experience with them.  So feel free to share your experience on both the commenting and the moderating sides of commenting.

No related posts.