Just started up a new forum two days ago, and my word! I forgot how much of a struggle it was! Setting it up is the fun part, but then trying to attract people is a different ball game! I had a look and theres 33k searchs for my domain each month and no other similar site out there. Just waiting for the thrill of seeing my first active posting member sign up! Anyway, be nice to get some views on what people think - http://www.XboxLips.com First time ive used IPB in a while. Ran out of Xenforo licences! Must admit IPB 3.2 isnt too bad, but still hard work compared to Xenforo!
Call me a geek if you will, but there's nothing like setting up a new site. I love the design and development process then the challenge of getting those first few members.. you know, not the friends who feel obliged to help out, but those names where you sign in and go "ooooohh someone I don't recognise!". You know you're on the starting block when you get that first unknown
Couldnt agree with you more! I have never and will never ask friends to sign up and post. Its more satisfying as you say getting those real members signing up and posting. Bloomin hard work though!
With my newest forum network, one day I started 5 forums in 24 hours haha. I got them all going and now membership is populating quite well. One good service is Post Loop which allows you to purchase points for getting members and posts on your forum or you can get points for free simple by posting on other forums. I purchase points myself and it has went way past my expectations.
Good luck with your new site Good to see you have not made the big mistake of having a hundred different forums on your site.
