Centralizing Ephemera at TEN

[Gary Roberts]

Folks... the topic of how to attract buyers to sites other than Ebay is a hot topic all over the place. I've been reading with interest the various auction and sales sites people are going to or using. Now, this may be outside of the purpose of TEN, but I'll throw it out for consideration. I spend a lot of time in various woodworking forums. Common to all is a specific subgroup just for sales/trades between forum members.

I'm wondering if such a section can be set up through TEN? Something that would encourage people to join in order to have access to the sales section. Typically, the forum or email list takes no responsibility for any transactions... it's all between the seller and buyer. There are some rules as to what can be offered, providing good service, etc. but on a whole, these sections are self-fulfilling.

Gary

[Mike Ferguson]

Hi Gary,
Can you send me to some examples? This is something more structured than a group? I would not want to host it on TEN directly, but I might be able to set up a separate network, available by invitation only (i.e. you have to be a member of TEN and request an invite...so unlike TEN, you can't simply stumble onto it or just stop in for a visit). We could call it the Trading Floor at TEN. Let's see if others chime in and define the need.

[Gary Roberts]

Mike
Take a look at the Woodnet Swap and Sell section. You can browse, but not post unless you join:

http://www.woodnet.net/forums/

A separate entity would be a good idea both for security and to keep the focus of TEN on it's primary purpose. Generally, these are simple forum/bulletin boards that allow the member to post an item or items. Other members can reply if they are interested. These sections alone are a definite draw for people to join and participate.

[Valerie MacEwan]

I, for one, think this is a great idea.
-Val

[Mike Ferguson]

I've started a little beta for this. It's in the very early build out stages and will take a while to figure out the best features and how to structure them, but if you are interested in having a look and providing feedback on how to "keep it simple" while still making it something that works, let me know and I'll invite you to "10 Merchant's Lane."

[Persephone]

I'd be interested in being part of the beta version, Mike.


Mike Ferguson said:

I've started a little beta for this. It's in the very early build out stages and will take a while to figure out the best features and how to structure them, but if you are interested in having a look and providing feedback on how to "keep it simple" while still making it something that works, let me know and I'll invite you to "10 Merchant's Lane."