I've been reading (and posting) threads on this topic for a while, and have communicated with the mods about this topic, and agreed to "wait and see" how the new scheme worked out. This thread is becoming a bit heated - I would like to weigh in now and perhaps suggest a range of possible solutions. And suggest all parties take a few calming breaths - this will be a lengthy post.
Given: A single organizational scheme will never make everyone happy. Neither the creators nor the users.
Given: After launching a new organizational scheme (which I know took a lot of work), no one welcomes criticism or demands to "make it like it used to be."
Given: The majority of users who visit this forum occasionally for information could care less what it looks like as long as they can quickly find accurate information.
Given: There are a core group of members (mods & users) that have come to care deeply about MR as a whole, and the particular sections they frequently visit - and are vocal in their suggestions on how to make it work better.
Given: MR is a global forum which tries to accommodate the needs of a diverse audience.
So:
MR mods have stated they do not want to re-instate the sub-forum organization scheme, and they want to decrease the number of "sticky" threads, moving static information to wikis. Arguing about a done decision at this point won't solve anything.
OK:
What are the options?
1. Get mad and quit MR or get banned from MR?
2. Work with the mods - sharing suggestions, viewpoints, and opinions? Patience needed on both sides here. And clear communication - if a suggestion is not appropriate, indicate clearly and move on. Don't
Finally:
Here are my thoughts --
1. An earlier post pointed out that no one else was jumping on this thread - does anyone else really care? It's had a lot of views. Were people put off posting by the obviously personal & emotional tone of some of the posts? Probably.
2. Could we create a thread inviting people's opinions on the current organization - and see if this is really an issue? Gather ideas?
Or:
1. Implement the suggestion to label threads (as done in the Apple forum where threads are labelled "iPod" or "iPad") and develop a set of labels appropriate to the Kindle forum ("update" "hack" "case" "skin" etc.) And then see what the response is from the users.
As has been pointed out, every time a new Kindle model is released a wave of newbies asks the same questions over & over again - just like the same questions get asked in the "Which One Should I Buy" forum - and the kind folk continue answering them, and the older posts move off into the archives.
I think one area of posts does deserve a sub-section. You kept the Developers Corner separate - which IMHO is a good thing - those posters are programmers speaking their own language - and everyday folk don't care or can't understand what they're doing.
I think a separate area would be beneficial for Updates & Hacks - until Amazon ever launches its apps, screensaver & font hacks have become very popular with people who are not programmers and need detailed & accurate information to avoid bricking their Kindles- and these hacks need to be coordinated with the Updates. Having all the information together - with links to the software to add or remove the hacks - could be very helpful. Also, the DRM information would belong in this area - since it too is linked with the updates.
Most of the "sticky" threads could be Wiki-ed or eliminated. The "Free & Inexpensive" thread largely duplicates posts in the "Deals, Freebies" forum. Other "sticky" threads got cluttered with "thank you - this is great" posts, that don't really add to their informational content. I would be willing to work with MR with this area. I've never written a Wiki, but am willing to learn.
Whew - long winded post - but I've been thinking on this since the re-organization - and wanted to share some ideas - feel free to use, ignore, or alter - I'm here to help.