[q=Agent Proto]4. What is your plan to increase the number of active members to EoFF?[/q]I don't believe that there is need for a "plan", as such. Trying to artificially increase the membership through cunning ploys or marketing would just result in a lot of disappointed newbies.
Thus, I believe that the best way for the forum to grow is through natural processes. Our frontsite, eyesonff.com, has undergone remarkable growth in the last few months. It has been gaining relatively widespread recognition and publicity. An interesting feature of the frontsite is the way it links to the forums. The latest threads on each game are listed in each section of the site, which will undoubtedly draw more viewers to the forums. It is this kind of exposure that will increase the number of forum members - people who're encouraged to view the forums out of curiosity or interest, rather than blatant promotion. As EoFF continues to grow in size and popularity, so too will the forums attract more members. This way, people who are genuinely interested will find and join the forums, whereas a widespread promotion would result in bored surfers finding the place and joining without having anything to contribute.

Encouraging new members to stay is a slightly different matter. Every forum has unique protocols and traditions; it can take a bit of getting used to. The moderators and regular members have an important role to play in ensuring that newbies feel welcomed and supported, while also being patient and ensuring that new members 'learn the ropes'.

EoFF's population should grow naturally, rather than as a result of any initiatives or publicity drives. the EoFF forums can benefit from EoFF's overall success, attracting dedicated fans and enthusiastic posters.