Bob,
A simpler method that would be effective at dealing with spammers and miscreants alike and would have the added benefit of being somewhat automatic would be; to have posting privileges suspended AUTOMATICALLY when the ratio of deleted posts exceeds a certain level. The system could then generate an email to the user detailing how they can request a review for reinstatement. Most spammers will never return knowing that they'll be stopped as soon as the posts are made. Legitimate posters will rarely get deleted so they needn't fear an arbitrary descision. Set the activation level high enough to avoid "catching" the legits but low enough to freeze the spammers and miscreants before they can do to much damage. Also since the program is automatic, the Moderator will only get involved if there is a request for reinstatement. Spammers won't take the time to try and hit the site again much less apply to be reinstated. The program should also delete any suspended account after 10 days (gotta allow time to respond) automatically.
This still leaves the power in the CoB's hands, and it indirectly gives them more power to stop spammers (and more cause to police their board often!). It also will provide an easy vehicle to locate troublesome CoB's (not that we have any now, but as IHUB grows we will) who are overusing the delete button. Again this should all be automated. The human element would not be involved until abuse was taking place.
Sysop Rule Number 1. Never arbitrate. Make the machine enforce the rules. That way you can be the good guy and restore what the mean old machine took away.
David Weed
aka the Bird of Prey
www.warp-drive.com
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