I would add that a big turn-off to potential members/participants is the tone of the forums. I have gone onto forums and posted questions and because I was not on the same level as the regular posters their attitudes, and responses, ran the full range from dismissive to nasty to completely insulting. Forums like this one are moderated very well and certain behavior and content is not tolerated.

I totally agree with you. The tone of the community is created by the members and founder. I am a member of a technology board that every time a member posts a self-promoting link, immediately, other members share their dismay. This helps prevent other future spammy posters.

I also agree that in any online community there are always:
1. The Creators - create content
2. Collectors - share links
3. Lurkers - those who watch but dont contribute.

http://blogs.forrester.com/groundswe...ters_new_.html