I find these message boards very difficult to use

[CindyJ]

Is it just me? I don't know how to do a search, and it seems very cumbersome to me. And what are the icons for?

[Jeanne in MN]

It takes too long to read messages and it's lost it's flow-for me anyway. I know many others love the new format.

Searches actually work better for me here. If you look towards the top of the page there is a blue line with User Control Panel, Board Rules, etc. Search is in the blue row. Click on it and it will give you a space to write in the words you are searching for. Works like a charm.

the icons, when used, show up next to your message when you post. It kind of indicates what the feeling of the post might be. If you are writing about something exciting you might click on the exclamation point icon to show up next to your subject line. If you are angry, you'd click on the red angry face, etc. Hope that makes sense.

[*anj*]

I know that quite a few people have stated similar feelings.
But I have to tell you guys that the old WTM board was probably the very last of those dinosaurs in existence. It was like the prototype of message boards, practically. I don't think you can find another board on the internet with that set up that would also be worth joining.

Now I agree that it was easy to see things at a glance, and it felt more intimate. It really felt like we were all in the same room as opposed to this big, new apartment building. Even so, you'll find your way around if you just give it a little time. If you go through some threads you'll find old friends and new ones too. I know it can seem a little overwhelming. If I hadn't spent any time on other, more modern boards I would feel the same way. But overall, I think this is the way to go. If you are still looking for something smaller and more intimate you could try a Yahoo group, but I really recommend that you give yourself a good shot at "getting" this new format. Ask questions if you need to, and you can always head down to the Q and A area, because nearly every question you have has already been asked.

Come on in, the water's fine! http://www.pic4ever.com/images/155fs853955.gif (http://www.welltrainedmind.com/forums/%5Bimg%5Dhttp://www.pic4ever.com/images/155fs853955.gif%5B/img%5D)
(Plus, you get to use way cool things like this!)

[GLOWAcademy]

All boards are going to be different, But I finally got the hang of this one in a day :)
I Love this Forum and Board :)The set up and everyone in here are Very Kind :)