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The following is a "digest" version of the 2013 Moderator Election Town Hall Chat. The format, as described on Meta Stack Overflow, is one answer to this question for every question asked in the Town Hall, containing all the candidate's answers to that question.

To view the digest chronologically, please sort the answers by "oldest".

If you have questions or comments about this, please do not answer this question as the answers are designed to be used for the questions from the Town hall itself. Instead, please ask on the parent question or in the Town Hall Discussion Room.

If you see any corrections which need to be made to this digest, or if you were a candidate who was unable to attend the town hall and would like your answers included, please @GraceNote or @TimStone in the chat room and let us know!

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Marco Ceppi Marco Ceppi asked: Do you feel you'll use your new super-vote privileges a lot if elected moderator?

  • Marco Ceppi Marco Ceppi clarified: All votes to close are binding and no longer require 5 votes from community to close.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: No, Actually i'll use it in moderate quantity. After all, it's the community that's moderating and you just help them in decisions that they can't really take on their own, like a referee

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: IIRC moderators are still forced to use the super-vote, and cannot cast a normal vote. If this is implemented, I will only use this in cases of obvious spam, off-topicness, and other noncontreversial closures and deletions.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I actually REALLY hope that, as the help site for moderators shows (The theory of moderation I think it was named) I do not get to use the new found super cow powers very often. In fact, if they ever get used, I hope it is for something that can be dealt with in a positive manner. If I do have to get into the gray area, then well, it will take longer but I will do my best to solve the problem.

  • Caleb Caleb asked: Quick follow up to that ... the superpowers aren't something you can turn off. In other words, all your actions are now going to be moderator actions. Does not wanting to use them often mean you will take less actions than you do now in some areas?

    Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado responded: No, it only means that, if the final decision in this site were up to me, I would actually like to somehow manage to avoid taking "final decisions" that could put somebody down or make them see AU in another way. Since this is not the case, any issue that comes in AU I will deal in the best manner I can, with or without super cow powers. If I have to use them, I will, if not, then that will be also good. I actually like treat everyone the same and expect the same.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Since I don't have actual abilities to do so right now, except for flagging, I will assume the hypothetical scenario that I do have the privileges required. I would probably even slow down a bit, unless it is urgent. I would give the community some time to decide on their own. Spam and "obvious" close-posts would be dealt with sooner - preferably immediately, of course.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Honestly, I do - because if I cast a vote, it tend to be done after careful consideration - so comparing my current level of casting close votes to what I project I would do - I think it would be fair to say I'll use it a lot percentage wise - but not necessarily in terms of the actual number of votes.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I'll use it just as often as I am using my normal vote right now.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Not excessively. If its an obvious case where something needs to be closed, I will.

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Marco Ceppi Marco Ceppi asked: Most of you are running under the premises that "I have x years in Ubuntu/Linux/Open Source". While this seems helpful for answering and asking questions, how does this help distinguish you as a good potential moderator?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I personally don't think it really does. While there are a few edge cases where this may apply, maturity and impartiality are more important.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I don't think experience on just using the OS matters much. But it is required to help to understand the question, which is then needed to take action on it.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: All the computer/linux experience in the world would not distinguish someone as better for a moderator.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I personally don't - except for the notion that I embraced the community alongside ubuntu. I don't see a direct correlation between a user well-informed about the site's main topic, and a user moderating it - while a large amount of insight obviously helps in defining the border line between off- and on-topic.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Honestly, that is not the premise that I'm running under, and in my humble opinion, anyone who thinks that qualifies them is not qualified (or needs to seek within themselves another criterion for qualification).

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Actually, the time I have in Ubuntu, Open source or anything related to this, does little to how one is good as moderation. Moderation is more closed related to how a teacher and students behave, how a leader works with his community or pack. If I had to say something related to that is that being a teacher at a pre-college and a degree on teaching can help a bit. Moderation is not about how much you know, is how you apply that information and the way you apply it to the community.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I actually am running because I think I can do a good job as a moderator. It doesn't have anything to do with me using Ubuntu for a couple of years. Though, however, prior good experience with the OS would give you a good idea of the value of posts in the site and determining if a post ought to stay or go.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I don't actually have that. I've not been here that long, but I want to step up and do more. I think that willingness, and the fact that I'm part of some of the other parts of SE, and can talk to them on good terms is what I have to offer.

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Grace Note Grace Note asked: What is your vision for what Ask Ubuntu should focus on as a community given the scope overlap with other sites on the network, including Unix & Linux, SuperUser, etc?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I feel as if AU should continue extending a hand to newer users, without any of that trigger-happy(downvote and closevote) SO style.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well, AU should be newbie friendly, unlike some other overlapping sites, which are targeted for a professionalistic audience

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Ubuntu is expanding as more than just "A linux OS" and should will adjust accordingly as the platform moves to phones - mobile - android devices (then and overlap with Android will occur).

FEichinger FEichinger answered: The ideal for the site would be a clear-cut definition. But that's not possible due to the very nature of language itself. But I think when it comes to the overlap, duplicate information across sites is "fine". I'm not saying "Answer the same topic on both sites.", I'm saying: Answer it on one and have the summary + link on the other, seeing how there is nothing in the system allowing us to actually combine two questions from different sites.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Ask Ubuntu should focus on being the best resource for Ubuntu users and developers that it can be - and not be worried about overlap - because after all, even Windows topics will at times overlap with the experiences that drive questions on the site. However, that said, we should be careful not to become the host of "Ubuntu and every unofficial derivative's QA". In that regard, I think we've been doing a pretty great job, actually ;).

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I have had several ideas about this. Askubuntu is a community that is based on Q/A, many of which solve most users their problems. For each question that appears, many have found their answer and many more will get their answer with that new question. My vision is that Askubuntu, differentiates with other sites in that it focuses on Ubuntu (Obviously) but, by being like that can create tools which relate the Ubuntu OS to this site, creating in a way a "help system" for new/old users.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Ask Ubuntu is working on making the experience of users using Ubuntu a much pleasant one. It has more to do with the users than sites that unfortunately happen to share some scope.

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fossfreedom fossfreedom asked: How much time do you have to devote to janitorial tasks?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: While I am a student, with events and extracurricular stuff, I can manage one and a half hours most days, more on weekends, but some days(maybe like 8 per year) I can do none. I can also moderate during various free times throughout the day. So, anywhere from 2 to 3 hours a day.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Several hours at various times during the day

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I have a good amount of time to dedicate to it after my exams are over. I can put over 6 hours on a holiday

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: My time is dependent largely upon my work load and my choice of how to spend my free time. In general, I work quickly but, carefully, so I can get a lot done in half hour intervals. I would sum it up as about three hours a day that I can devote to the janitorial tasks.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: While studies do occupy quite some time, I am usually available a good ten hours a day, at least. I already spend a large amount of that time on /review, but I believe at least 4 of those daily hours can go straight to janitorial.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I'll spend an hour maximum every day on Ask Ubuntu. That time allocation may vary depending on my schedule though.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: At the moment, a good chunk of the day. I find that 3-4 20 minute periods, even with no mod tools works well

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Amith KK Amith KK asked: A diamond will be attached to everything you say and have said in the past, including questions, answers and comments. Everything you will do will be seen under a different light. How do you feel about that?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: First of all, I have some older comments from when I was less experienced with the site. I would work through those comments, making sure I did not misstep, and then either keep or remove them, as would be proper if it was a comment I made now.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well, I'd be fine with that. I would maybe go through some of my really old posts and refine them a bit. But other than that, I'm fine with that happening

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: It will make me think more, but I will always be who I am.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I would stand by these comments, posts, and whatever else I said. I may have been wrong or inappropriate - but it happened. Trying to cover it up - or even fearing it - is the wrong way of going about this.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: If the diamond becomes real, multiplies and makes me richer than Bill gates, then bring it on. If not, then I will be the same guy but, hear this... with the diamond on my side (Do not confuse with Pokemon). So it will actually not change my feeling for the site or community.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Like nothing will change. I am who I am and always will be myself. A diamond, more eyes on me, or being completely alone should not ever change that. Outside of this site (TMI?) I'm accustomed to this kind of scrutiny, both as the son of two pastors and as a prominent person in various situations over the course of my life so far. Being under scrutiny for being a moderator would be just another instance of the same.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: No difference. I have always be mindful of everything I say and this added diamond will have little to no effect on my future verbiage.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: With power comes responsibility. I certainly will try to keep an eye on what I do, but I'd rather not do historical revisionism. If I say something, it should be something I should stand by, or apologise for. I don't think I'd change the way I do things at all.

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Amith KK Amith KK asked: As a moderator on AU, you will also moderate the entire Stack Exchange chat system. How much time do you spend, or plan to spend in the Ask Ubuntu chat room, and why?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: If I am elected, I plan to spend most of my AU day there, handling users' questions, and will be able to handle flags as they come up.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I already spend enough time in the chat to moderate it. It will continue as usual after I get elected

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Way. Too. Much. I think I spend more than two thirds of my SE time here on the chat. I do multitask, so it's not my only activity, but I'm definitely lurking the chat a whole damn lot.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: As much time in chat as possible, It is a backbone of commutation, and connection with other users.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I spend hours (sometimes) in the AU chat room, both to catch up with like minds, share a joke with friends, or to learn/share info. As a high rep user I'm accustomed to the rare chat flag and the occasional rudeness that crops up in the chat system, and I think I'm ready and able to handle it.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: The same I spend every day the real world let's me. I actually spend more time hunting down questions I can answer than in the chat, but in chat I also find questions that others need answer that I could add to them. The time on the chat I have noticed is better appreciated and valued by users that appear there asking for help (Last 2 weeks have been helping between mysql problems and video problems), so most likely I will end up applying more time in chat to help more.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I spend a significant amount of time in the chat and I abhor handling those chat flags.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: As much as I do now. I consider the chatroom system the social aspect of any site, and that and meta is the way that we communicate how we think things should be

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Caleb Caleb asked: What, in your opinion, is the purpose of closing questions? What are the positive and negative impacts and, in your opinion, should the measure be taken more or less frequently than the current status-quo?

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Am more with the idea of explaining the OP that his/her question could be closed because of X reason. I would also give advice or point in the right direction to avoid first closing the question (Let OP close it themselves or alleviate the problems associated with closing the question to the OP or other members.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado continued: For the positive aspects, one could say, cleaner site, less duplicates or wrongly created questions, less confusion. For the negative side, one could say the OP, depending on the person, would feel bad about the whole situation.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: The purpose of closing a question is to tidy up the site, and to guide users. For example, the "Duplicate" vote helps a user to find out where the old question with more answers are. Also, all close votes are decided by 5 users agreeing. I think it should continue how it goes now.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: A tool for the smooth operation of the site, many of the closings are for the purpose of ultimately restoring the question. Closing the question, not constructive, not a real question, gives links to the FAQ, so that users can improve the post in a constructive manner, without vagrant excessive down-voting, comments, ect.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I think we're doing a fine job, right now. Questions should be closed, if they are actively harmful to the site's quality. As for impact: Closing a question is a sign to everyone that this seems "unwanted" - this may sometimes give a wrong impression. It obviously helps consolidate, collapse and organize the site, though.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: The purposes for closing questions in my opinion should be the following:

  • The question does not fit the scope of the site and would fit somewhere else, or not at all.
  • The question is not a question at all (for example, rants, spam, and feature requests).
  • The question is out dated, no longer relevant, and cannot be brought up to a useful state.

I do believe that we should close questions a little less (and sometimes it does seem like we are a little heavy handed with some of the more obscure questions), but in general I don't see that we need to make a big alteration in this regard.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: IMO, closing questions is a way to indicate such questions are not a suitable fit for the site and the community. Positively, it enforces the standards of the community. On the negative side, the user posting question might feel left out. And I have no problem with the current status-quo.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Closed questions need a little love in many cases. It needs to be fixed, and improved. Ideally the OP should. I consider closing a sort of pergatory, rather than the equivilent of shoving something in /dev/null. The question often can be saved

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Shog9 Shog9 asked: on Ask Ubuntu, almost anyone can moderate, as gaining reputation provides access to various tools for doing so: flags, commenting, editing, close/reopen, deletion... How much moderating do you engage in now?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I often check on the queues such as close vote, edits, low-quality posts, and others. I will flag upon seeing an improper post, and/or cast a closevote. I will also perform edit approval and close votes from posts where I simply come across one deserving a vote.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I use the review queue to do my maintanance. I used to rank #3 in the cleanup. Basically, I try to do what I can with my current powers

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Well actually, I would say a lot. Sometimes, at least 3 or 4 times a week I stumble on a problem that if I had moderation status I could sort it out faster. Apart from that everyday is moderation day for me.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Due to my low reputation, I hardly have access to full moderation tools. I do regularly participate in the First Post /review, and keep flagging what I come across - as well as, as I mentioned in the nominations already, the CleanUp and Regulators Room actions that clean up the site - directly or indirectly.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I make avid use of the review queue, though recently (due to a temporary jump in my work load) I have not been able to do as much as I did before. However, as I've mentioned on numerous occasions, there are some details of moderation in which my hands are tied, and thus I can't contribute as much as (or where) I would like to, such as in turning a "me too!" answer into a "I have the same issue" comment.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I partake in all of the things you mention. And also promote the site on Planet Ubuntu. :)

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: less metamoderation than I'd like, since I'm a low rep user. Where I can, a fair bit. Most of what I do now is commenting and editing, though I've been flagging more lately

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Amith KK Amith KK asked: Okay, so the moderators will work as a team, but what will be the choosen method of communication between them? And how will regular users be able to be part of this if at all?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Things which are public, will be discussed in chat(either a public chat room or AU general chat room). What is sensitive, or personal data, even if not directly violating the NDA(but still something you might not want public) would be in a private chat room.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Anything that needs public interference will be discussed in the AUGR or the Ubuntu Regulators room. Anything that is to be private, in a private chatroom. The community issues also can me discussed in Ask Ubuntu Meta

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I think meta.AU is a perfectly fine place to discuss issues related to the site. Everyone can take part in it and contribute their opinions. If in the case of sensitive issues, it can be taken over to the private chat.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I would love to have some kind of dedicated chat for moderators, or any other way of transparently communicating and getting the community involved. That's actually something I should've answered the "What will change?" question with. But I also don't see that happening.

FEichinger FEichinger continued: It would be awesome, and I would immediately be up to it - but for the most part the few people that do get involved on meta are also the same people that can communicate with the mods directly on the General Chat and the such. That is probably a chicken-egg problem, though.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I think apart from Chat (Or some evil chat room for mods only), via Gmail, Skype, G+ or any easy way of communicating to each other. There are way too many forms of communicating right now. So that would not be a problem.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I believe the moderators have their own secret room and are sworn to secrecy about its contents, but otherwise, I believe in making decisions with the participation of the community as often as possible, and as such I will make extensive use of the general chat room and sometimes meta to reel in "regular" users as a whole.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Whatever means necessary - private chatrooms for sensitive issues, Meta for things that need to be done in public and needed to be recorded, and chat for things that need to be handled publically in real time. What's important to me is other mods know what I'm doing

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Tim Stone Tim Stone asked: Do you feel like a representative percentage of the community participates in your site's meta? Based on that, how strongly do you think feedback presented on meta should factor into your decision making as a moderator?

Amith KK Amith KK answered: A good percentage of people do participate on meta. I would consult it for my decisions . Although, participation should improve.

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Honestly, I feel as while a good amount of people do participate, I'm not seeing enough recurring meta users beside a handful f 30-50. users.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: No, I feel there should be more participation. Of course I am not one to say this since I too participate little on meta, but some ideas or incentives can be created to welcome new and old users to meta in favor of actively participating on how AU will work and offer.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: The participation feels quite low. We have a core group, and then some one-offs. I do, however, push for using meta more, and I rely heavily on it in my decisions - this is where the community voices its opinion.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: In my opinion not that many people visit meta or even know what it is. I can't blame them as I tend to visit meta somewhat rarely (I admit), as I spend more time digging through review tasks and looking for ways I can help with answer or editing questions. I think however that feedback on meta is essential to a moderator's duties as it gives access to "a pulse of the community."

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: I was active in meta from nearly the start of when I came here, and see many new users active in meta, Many are interested in the workings of the site, and it is a good platform for discussing things on the site, however solely basing a decision on a single new meta post may not give the best "view" of the entire situation

jokerdino jokerdino answered: No. The percentage of people participating in meta is really inadequate. But, considering how that is the only feedback we get, I would pretty much have discussions held in meta in the back of my mind before undertaking any decisions.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I believe people who care enough to try to steer the community a certain way would end up on meta. In most cases its a small percentage (and more would be nice), but these are folk who are likely to stick around for the long run. Except where common sense dictates otherwise, I would read and consider their viewpoints, and try to make the right choice. As I've said before, moderators are an extention of the community, and their views matter

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jrg jrg asked: Someone posts on meta, damning your Nazi soul for closing his question. What do you do?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: First of all, I would respond to the user on the meta post explaning my reasons for doing action XYZ. Then, I would carefully reevaluate my reasoning, with the user's reasoning also put into reason, and if I am still unsure, reach community consensus over policy in another meta post. Then, keep or undo the action.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Easy, explain the reasons for the close in a way that: 1. It is explained by being "on the poor victims side" 2. By explaining the reason in a way that the victim will understand and also accept. * In case victim does not accept, I would start a talk/chat about why he/she thinks so and work out from there

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I would edit out the offensive parts and kindly inform the user that this hostilty is not gonna help getting an answer. I would, however, also answer the actual meta post.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well, I'll really not change my mind unless the so called someone points out some detail that causes the question to be valid. Anyways, my reason would be fair and statable.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: cry, because there is no escape. On the real though I would carefully explain why I made my decision, and if they are especially confrontational, knowing my own personality, I'd leave it to someone else to handle. I believe in stepping away when you know you can't deal with things the way they should be dealt with.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Close the meta question (edit out Nazi, and other harmful content), with a firm but polite response, why - how the site works - and actions that he might incur if the situation is continued

jokerdino jokerdino answered: If the closing of his question was indeed unwarranted, I would reopen his question. If I don't feel like that was the case, I'll get someone else for a second opinion.

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jrg jrg asked: For the younger candidates (who are fairly numerous): how will you handle posts on meta claiming "you are incompetent because you are so young"?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I would begin (as with the question regarding how I would handle a use who complains about my actions) by reevaulating, explaining, and seeking consensus on policy if needed. If the belief of incompetency continues, I will continue to work with the user complaining until I manage to reach a decision that is fair to the user(from multiple perspectives) and remains within policy. I would also argue that mental age is not the same as physical age.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. I'd just tell them that age is not a factor in moderation. You just need to have a straight mind. Well, Aren't you one of the younger one's that provided good services to the community?

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I would actually point them to jrg as an example. A "young candidate" physically, a very mature person emotionally and intellectually. So the whole idea of younger not been able to it is just an old VERY old idea that is long dead. If they prove their worth, they do not have to prove anything related to their age.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I shouldn't answer this I guess, but essentially I would point them to many real world examples of young leaders who are successful in what they do, as well as to older leaders who are ruinous to their positions and those under their authority.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I don't think competency and age are correlated. And I'll strive hard to make sure no such posts come up in meta in the first place. If anything comes up and I'm not in the wrong, I am sure someone else will back me up.

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Grace Note Grace Note asked: In what way do you feel that being a moderator will make you more effective as opposed to simply reaching 10k or 20k rep? Or staying there, if the case may be?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Honestly, I feel as if I (and/or another candidate) would have a "surer" step if they are elected by the community that know what the voting is going to, as opposed to post votes. One can be good with Ubuntu, make it to 20K, and then prove to not be good at moderation.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. We're the representatives of the community. Generally speaking, it is much more easier to control a group of people when you are leader.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: After having been at 20k for some time, I quickly came to feel frustrated with just how much I couldn't do. For example, migrating questions, turning answers (that don't belong) into comments, merging accounts when new users get confused, returning a bounty, merging tags, etc. All told, none of these are tasks anyone would clamor for, but they are exactly the kind of tasks that myself and other high rep users would love to help with, but can't - as mere immortals. Wait...

FEichinger FEichinger answered: The difference between a moderator and a trusted user is quite apparent here, as the duties of moderation are very different from what garners reputation the most. A user who gains reputation easily may be well informed about the topic at hand, but lack experience in dealing with the more meta topics - and vice versa. I believe that I am considerably experienced on the meta end, while I hesitate answering main questions.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I none that sticks out but some moderation features that I could use (Like the janitor features) could help lower the confusion (And huge amount) of new users not finding the correct answers because the title has a typo or was expressed in another way, not to mention duplicate questions and helping in solve problems that require actually calling out for a moderator.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: It is my opinion that I can handle issues straightaway if I am a mod. Compared to sitting back and waiting for a mod to come and clean up the matter, I can get to work as I run into them. It can be as simple as deleting spam posts to providing a more authoritarian opinion on meta.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Amongst other things, more soft power. I've been 20K elsewhere and I've been reasonably satisfied with what I could do, with the help of others in the community. It simply means I can do those things faster. I'd love to be able to fix not an answers for one. I'd note that apparently merging accounts is something devs are supposed to do now @RolandiXor

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Caleb Caleb asked: A new user comes along and asks several generic scripting questions. Somebody comes along and flags them all for migration to U&L; what do you do?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I would carefully consider the questions first. Are they Ubuntu-specific and answerable? If so, keep it, but mark the flag as helpful as it is in good faith. If it isn't, and is a good question that is migration-worthy, then I shall migrate after checking with the U&L moderators. If it is not migration worthy based on quality, then close it with an appropriate reason.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Depends on the question. I would migrate it if it's absolutely U&L worthy after asking the mods there.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: This depends on whether or not these questions are of use to us. Do they apply to the ubuntu audience or are they, due to their more in-depth point of view, rather localized and would probably fit better on U&L? Even if they would belong on U&L - can they still be beneficial on our site? Does U&L already have a Q&A on it that we could link to? I would only migrate it if U&L deem it fitting and AU does not need it at all.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Unless the questions really don't fit the site (for example, if the user references another distro or a *NIX), I would decline the flags, and if possible, I would explain to the flagger (via an anonymous comment, or if they bring it up - on chat in person) why the questions are acceptable on the site. If need be, I would write a meta post about it - without mentioning who flagged.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: It often depends on the quality of the question, and how abstract the scripting is, if it involves common components to Ubuntu many users are more than enthusiastic to get into a little scripting, especially when it involves the things we use in Ubuntu everyday, however many may be too complicated or unrelated.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: The first line of action would be to check if the questions are valid enough for our site. If they fit well in, I would be happy to have the questions on our site. If they aren't on topic, I'll check with U&L mods and proceed accordingly.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I'd look at them on their own merits, and the quality of the answers and questions. If it was clearly off topic, I would probably ask the U&L mods if they wanted it. Generally though, I think it would be better if the question was closed off topic and flagged by more than one user.

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jrg jrg asked: Some posts a question about some unreleased software that Canonical is working on and has demoed, but not released. What do you do?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: In accordance with the current alpha/beta policy, I would close as off-topic if it is for support or bug complaints(which are off-topic anyway). If it is about features and is of sufficient quality, I would leave it open. However, we must remember that Canonical makes things that are not all Ubuntu.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Just point them to the FAQ and also to the question about why it should not be asked about unfinished, in development, future ideas in AU. Basically, it would not have a real answer in that time frame or until the work Canonical is doing is actually released.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Close it to the Duplicate general "this is what Canonical is doing" question that the community has made, as there will always be interest in the new software. If it is "how do I use it" it would be off topic as it can't be used yet.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well Canonical!=Ubuntu. So, depends on how good the question is.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I would close it as off-topic, as it is technically part of ubuntu+1, or similar "future" and "not yet supported" projects. I would, however, consider going for a similar setup as with ubuntu phones currently: A canonical question detailing why we are probably not the best source of information for that.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: If the question fits within the boundaries of the site (such as - Is the source code for xyz available as yet), I would most likely just answer the question. However, in most such cases, I would explain why the question is outside of the scope of the site (pointing to the FAQ at times (if I remember, to be 100% honest ;), and close the question.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: More often than not, such posts tend to be speculative and rarely useful. I would either close such questions or act on the merit of the post.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I'd look at the current site policy. If its a question that can't be reasonably answered, I'd lean towards closing it on the short term.

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fossfreedom fossfreedom asked: You find out that a well known and highly valued Ask Ubuntu contributor is possibly engaging in questionable behaviour, like having friends upvoting their posts. How do you handle the situation?

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well, I'd tell them clearly in a private chatroom that it is behaviour that can get him/her banned and that they should not repeat it

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I would politely contact the users related to this violation, ask then to stop, and allow the serialvoting script to do its job(since moderators cannot see or change votes). I would explain to the users why they are in violation, and explain the serial voting detection script, as well as link to the pertaining meta post.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: First I actually look at the evidence, he/she did not get to that position by doing stuff like that. If it is true, I then talk to said person to explain the information I found. After that I would ask in private to other mods about what should be done or how it should be handled.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I would evaluate evidence and contact the user in question - perhaps even make sure the user hasn't been hacked and that the behaviour isn't induced from the outside. But I would also rely on the systems SE has already in place at first.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I don't believe in jumping into anything too quickly, especially with regards to taking action in such a situation as a voting ring. I would (if it is allowed) contact the person suspected of the behaviour | (and if it is not allowed to contact them) I would monitor the situation until we have enough data/info to make a decision, then upon consulting with other moderators, I would take action. I do not believe in partiality.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: IMO, being valuable doesn't give you the pass to be mischievous. I wouldn't let the status of the user spoil the decision making. If necessary, I would have a talk with the user to settle issues.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: First and formost, I'd have a quiet word and a warning (but that's my preferred way of dealing with things), unless there was a serious amount of obvious misconduct that had to be handled. I'd also let the other mods know. If necessary to escalate things to a suspension, I would.

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  • 4
    I don't want to state official policy on each of these questions but this one has happened before. You've all said that you'd have a word with the user first (after looking at the evidence yourself, which is a given). The first step should really be talking to the rest of the moderators. There'll be 8 others next to you, some with experience dealing with the issue you're looking at. It is possible to misread automatic flags and reports so I implore you to check things over in the evil, mod-only chatroom :) Failing that there's a SE-wide mod room for help with issues.
    – Oli Mod
    Commented Feb 16, 2013 at 1:10
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Amith KK Amith KK asked: What will change about Ask Ubuntu after you are elected?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: There will be a new set of hands helping keep this site operational. While I will avoid changes for the worse, I will continue getting community feedback on meta(both MSO and AU.meta) and possibly request features on MSO to help with moderation, or help explain the MSO process to interested users.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Basically nothing, at least the day after I get elected. After that I might start throwing out ideas or ways the site could be enhanced, which probably the older mods have already thought of many of them

FEichinger FEichinger answered: To be perfectly honest - probably nothing. We already have an established group of moderators and a good chunk of policies. There is few room for change overall. But in this small space, I hope my philosophy on relying on the community's decisions and using meta a lot more do get spread.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I'd not really do anything in the beginning. Maybe I'll emulate @Oli and do something like the Cleanup Site, for tag cleanup :P

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Everything, and when I say everything, I mean everything. All users must wear my planet's uniform. All moderators must... oh wait, wrong answer.

On the one hand, no one person will make the "big difference" - as that is the result of all of our collective efforts. If I'm elected, things will largely continue as usual, however, we will now have an extra pair of eyes and hands to keep the engine of this site running smoothly, and some users (such as those who speak other languages and don't realize the site only allows English) - will be able to get a better experience (since I believe in going out of the way to help everyone). Otherwise, I can't really say that my being elected will directly change the site in a visible way - it would be overstepping my boundaries with regards to pride to say so :).

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: To the normal user, it will be like nothing has changed, there are allays logical changes to the entire system of course, but a new moderator should not have a goal of "Changing the World" so to say, only in favor of changes for the better, as that could be destructive, and if possible too much power is in the hands of Community Moderators.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Nothing. It will tug along like it does right now.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Not very much on my own. I'd like to see more migrations, and small adjustments in certain things, like the burden of proof on self promotion, but I think i'd adjust my way of doing things more than try to change things here

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Amith KK Amith KK asked: Where there is a will, there is a way: How far would you go to help another user? How far have you gone in the past to ensure a new user does not become discouraged at the first sign of trouble?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: While I cannot personally find the time to help every frustrated user out there(at least, not without a fake London telephone booth), I will try to help users that are sincerely willing to contribute to the site, but are having trouble. For this, I plan to use a few polite comments, and possibly the power to reopen a question that was incorrectly closed.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: I'd go as far as correcting and notifiying their mistakes. Reopening their questions if they are rational etc.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I have gotten cases where I actually SSH to the users PC, VNC my way to their computer, had a live google hangout, skype chat, IRC or google chat. They came to Askubuntu because they needed help, some cases, this people REALLY needed to solve their issue. Since I have worked for people that work for some company, I know how they feel. So I give it my best I see if I can solve the problem in the best way I know how.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado continued: I should also mention that I learn more from a very tough question that I have to research, test and work my way into it than an easier question. I also find tougher questions a challenge which really raise my will to solve it. I mean REALLY gives me a adrenaline rush to work on it.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Get them into a chat, show them around, show them a few tweaks - and try to reach out for them if they do get "lost". Again: I promote a philosophy of much less hostility on SE. We don't need instant smirk remarks and sarcasm, so, obviously, I would discourage these from the established users as well.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I've gone as far as to stay up late at night and talk people through their issues on chat, once I set up a VM to install PBX service that I didn't even need, and once I stuck with a single issue for weeks on end. I think I'd go pretty far for a user if I felt they really needed it.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: As far as I need to. If a user comes on chat asking what he's doing wrong, I'd gently help him get on the right track. If its someone who can't be helped, well, least I tried

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fossfreedom http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/c88f455192559b06f95d006abfe33f9f?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG fossfreedom asked: What is the stand out thing/activity that you have done on Ask Ubuntu to-date that you are MOST proud of and why?

ObsessiveSSOℲ http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/3d29d26e0b6452a8732390472f59a7b4?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Probably my many Meta feature requests(on Meta.AU, and MSO), which I feel is a sign of community interaction.

Amith KK http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/17f955dcc67792f420f47dc6471d376a?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG Amith KK answered: Well. I'd say I have answered quite a few questions, and used the review queue regularly.

mateo_salta http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/adf708efd8e843f270c3a6f2935e8368?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG mateo_salta answered: This: How do I subscribe to RSS feeds in Firefox with Google Reader? Because at one time the question was closed as off topic, and extremely down-voted in encourging the user to improve the question, and intervention by some other users, we were able to help the user.

FEichinger http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/b3c95705dadc56ae2010baf4c122bbad?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG FEichinger answered: I think what I am most proud of is my activity on /review and the chat. Keeping in touch with everyone and discussing stuff, rather than just putting the decision on the wall, that feels awesome.

Luis Alvarado http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/8d85f84b3c0241ebca2eee5a2552014f?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG Luis Alvarado answered: I have some answers that took me a while to solve, several hours or days. Thos might me some of the proud work. Others are also those people that got their answer to a problem they had for days. A couple might also be the people I dedicated more time and even dedicated myself outside of AU so that they could enjoy Ubuntu and feel that Askubuntu reaches out to anyone that needs help, no matter where. Got small proud moments that are good to remember.

RolandiXor http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/d629b6ac45d58dbd918c0246b364748d?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG RolandiXor answered: I'd have to say going out of the way to help people with difficult questions. Why? Because I know I'd be happy if someone did the same for me.

jokerdino http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/8bfa3d624cdb4f087d8d8ffcaf786315?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG jokerdino answered: Being a part of this community is proud enough. I haven't found that many communities that is as helpful as this one and most of the time, the people around here are respectful.

Journeyman Geek http://www.gravatar.com/avatar/e88cb2b3858ca0df735806f1a8476b23?s=16&d=identicon&r=PG Journeyman Geek answered: I can't think of any one thing. I think the entirity of one's actions are important

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Caleb Caleb asked: The whole close question workflow is changing across SE sites. In the mean time, what do you think about the long standing concept of a closure being a "temporary holding place" while the ultimate fate of a either improvement and re-open or eventual deletion is hashed out?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: IMO a closure is still a decision that a question does not belong, but if a question is edited and becomes acceptable, I won't hesitate to reopen upon request(from the OP or another user)

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. That won't really work out for duplicates, now will they? For other close reasons, I agree with you

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Personally, I disagree with that. I do agree that it has its merits - it keeps the question from being overrun with even more low-quality content, but on the other hand, it shows a bad sign. This sort of "cooldown" should, in my opinion, really only be used if it's a topic that's controversial in the community.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: I see no need for a change in that system, except for more effort on our part, being put into making "nu-uh" questions into "How can I abcd, efg?" questions, which can be answered instead of nuked.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Sorry I have not researched this (You know more than me) but if I have to say an answer I would say that options are good, limiting is bad. If I have as a mod the option to close for "temp holding" and also for improvement or deletion, it would be better than having only one option. I say this because any of this 3 options really depends on the question involved, the user that did the question, the time it was made, how long has passed since it was made and the way it was made.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado continued: ... As you can see, all of this variables change the final decision one makes as a moderator. In one question, closing it will solve the problem, in another, it would be best to close it until it is improved and so on. No ultimate answer can solve all problems, this is why options that are flexible are better than rigid ones, because humans are no closed minded, they are open.

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bcbc bcbc asked: What previous leadership experience do you have?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I've been captain of a robotics team, and I've also been a rowing coxswain. The former position requires managing a team, resources, and funding, and the latter requires precision, and a quick and decisive(but also right on the first decision) mind.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. I was the IT president at school a year or two back. :D

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Well, as I've detailed on my pretty-much-biography-thingy-story, I have been a forums moderator, Quality Assurance, "leading" community member - pretty much everything that gets combined in a StackExchange moderator.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Without going into too much detail about my offline life, I've been in a leadership position several times in very real and important areas and ways in my life so far, and in the online world I've been the leader of a rather extensive (but disciplined) gaming guild (at one time having 100 members) - which believe it or not - was a good place to learn what it means to truly be a leader, and I've been a GM (game moderator) as well.

RolandiXor RolandiXor continued: I've also run a number of social networks at times (when Ning was free), and I founded and still manage a group blog (2buntu.com). Outside of that I think my leadership experience is quite extensive. Just to be sure - I'll list a few - prefect - twice in my life, manager of a group of other workers at one time, prominent figure in my community (churchwise) - etc.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Well I could mention I was one of the programmers in a WoW emulator, was the leader of a very old database for the same game and other very geeky stuff. But seriously, I have tough a little over 500 kids and adults and that has brought a different way of thinking. You end up learning how people think and how people try to learn new things. You also learn new points of view that even contradict your own (Which is awesome actually). So I can say i have had several years of leadership.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I am currently a leader of a development team focused on making apps for Ubuntu environment. I also have held leadership positions in my school / junior college level.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: As far what I can talk about, Moderator on Lords of the Battlefield.com for long enough that I don't remember. I've also been a moderator on the battlechat irc channel on slashnet. I'm a fairly well respected user on SU. I've also had a few periods I've helped out small, very private forums get things up, but in most cases, they prefer not to be publically mentioned.

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Gilles Gilles asked: Do you participate in other Ubuntu-related communities and in what role?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: While I am not officially on a LoCo team, and I don't do much on the wiki, I've done translations, bug management, and have done Ubuntu-related community outreach, including within our school's IT department. This aspect, however, is similar to the one about Ubuntu expertise in how it is less of a factor than maturity and impartiality.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: I have participated in launchpad, clicking "this bug affects me" when the situation arises, since we don't handle bugs at AU

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Yeah, I do. I'm part of freyja-dev headed by @jokerdino. I also am part of 2buntu.com, founded by @RolandiXor @jrg and @Gui. Although I'm not an active blogger for the last few months. I also do launchpad translations at times.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I don't, in fact. This is not due to personal preference, however. It is, because I have never really gotten "into it". I have no real project I feel I can contribute to, outside of Ask Ubuntu, and I think this keeps me focused, at least.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I am currently a part of a development team meant to develop apps for the Ubuntu environment. I have also contributed translations, bug triaging, submitting bug fixes and advocating Ubuntu.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: I tend to go to IRC to help. I also try to help in my country (I teach Linux using Ubuntu).

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: As previously mentioned, I run a group blog about Ubuntu (2buntu.com), I'm active on launchpad, have at one time been on the Ayatana mailing list (I stopped because of the swarm of emails :P), I'm the local Ubuntu "go to guy" ;), and I was at one time relatively acting on the Ubuntu forums. In most of these I've not been a "leader", but I am such on 2buntu, and in my local community, as I'm the one who has introduced many people to Ubuntu in Barbados :).

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Somewhat on the local mailing list, but I'm recovering my social life from a short period when I ill. I used to attend LUG meetings when I was a student in the UK. Otherwise, its mostly here.

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ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ asked: Ask Ubuntu has begun to include a few acceptable non-Ubuntu, but Ubuntu-related questions, such as about Launchpad. Will you remain open to such questions, as long as they are constructive?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Yes, so long as they are useful to the Ubuntu community at large.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I personally am comfortable about questions related to Launchpad. It is much more closely tied to Ubuntu than is obvious. So, yes. I am open to such questions on Ask Ubuntu.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Yeah, I will keep them open. Launchpad is part of the Ubuntu Project and highly related to the User Experience.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Using Launchpad is a essential part of getting software into Ubuntu, Many questions that are directly/indirectly related to Ubuntu are best suited for this Q/A style, I found the we made only a few "set in stone" don't ask about topics, and there is a broad range that we do accept as being on topic.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Sure. There is not much to qualify on that: If it benefits the site and community, it shall remain.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Yes, sites like launchpad are actually part of what I call the Ubuntu ecosystem. Sites and tools like that are what helps promote, develop and share Ubuntu to others.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Always have been, always will be. If its related to the Ubuntu experience, bring it!

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Unlike a lot of folk here, for better or worse, I am familiar with, and use windows and other linux distros fairly regularly. if its on topic as per the rules of the site, I'm fine with them

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Amith KK Amith KK asked: I am a funny person, and like to have fun... but sometimes I make comments that can be misread (and in hindsight perhaps should not have been said at all) if a person does this, but is sincerely is sorry after the fact, how would a situation be handled like this?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Politely explain to them that their comment may have offended some, and delete the comment. Assume good faith the first time. If done in bad faith, more firmly, bot politely, explain that rudeness is not tolerated. After repeated requests to stop, and further violations(as well as discussion from other mods), a suspension may be put to use.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: If a person acknowledges his mistake and promises not to do that again, there isn't much that can be done. If the intent was malicious, punishments might be dished out but if it was intentional, letting go would be a relatively better option.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. I'd tell him/her politely to mind their commentary more, and that rudeness is not tolerated. I'd basically leave him with a warning. I would also maybe edit out the comment to be neutral for him/her

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Depending on how viable it would be to edit it to a more "neutral" comment, I would prefer that - in coordination with the user in question. I may also recommend leaving it be - perhaps with a subsequent comment that explains the problem, or apologizes for it (from either me, or even the user themselves) - or removing it entirely. It really depends on the situation, but it is not a definite "Punish NAO!" thing.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: if need be, I would drop them a note about it (usually in a less prominent place such as in a one one on chat), and delete the offending comment (if its crossing the line). Otherwise, I would not come down hard on them. If a person makes a habit of this, I would be a bit more firm, but I don't think I'd be wielding the ban hammer any time soon. As a moderator on a game once told me - such people help the community in their own way, and we need them too.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: If its a true, and honest apology, it probably should be accepted, and handled as gracefully as possible. Moderators aren't judge, jury and executioners, its better to talk to everyone involved and sooth things between them. There's always going to be drama, but we can try our best to keep it down.

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Grace Note Grace Note asked: Final thoughts from the candidates?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I wish everyone the best of luck, and I encourage those who do not win, to try again next year.

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ continued: I also plan to use suspension as little as possible, favoring communication first, and then after repeated attempts to reach them, and after it is known to be bad faith, and discussing with other mods, only then employ a suspension.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Oh, No... Not Again!

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Final thoughts? Oh, where the hell did that hour go?! Wow!

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Final thoughts? Waking up at 5 in the morning for the town hall chat was more difficult than I thought.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Well. It was an interesting session, To say the least.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: 42

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: This place is scary. mommy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On a serious note: I entered this election because numerous people asked me to even when I decided not to run again after the previous election. It tells me that at least people trust me to help them as moderator, and I respect that greatly. Either way the election turns out, I come away with a greater sense of responsibility and respect, and yes, love, for the community...

...stop crying, please. No really :'(... aww who's cutting the onions?!

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I suppose, what I can really say is, I am a bit of an unknown quantity, compared to some others as far as the AU community goes. No matter who you elect, you're going to get three great mods, and I look forward to working with them, as either a user or a fellow mod. No matter what the outcome of the election, I hope to contribute to the community in whatever way I can

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Grace Note Grace Note asked: In your opinion, what do moderators do?

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Handle the exceptions.

  • Anna Lear Anna Lear asked for clarification: Can you expand on that? What kind of exceptions do you think moderators deal with?

    mateo_salta mateo_salta responded: Suspicious voting, destructive actions that sometimes occur, and then the everyday tasks as handling flags

    Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek responded to Anna Lear: To an extent, Not an answers, spam, and so on. I believe moderators are an extention of the community, so in general, to me, there's suprisingly few situations I consider an exception. One situation I can think of, and have encountered before, is a user who had just gotten, say editing powers, and goes overboard removing a pet peeve of his. Another might be an intentionally abusive or disruptive user

FEichinger FEichinger answered: That's a question I believe I have partially answered on the nominations already. Moderators should guide the community and support it (and keep it in check a bit), not lead it. A moderator should, in my opinion, mostly act on behalf of the community.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Moderators help the community handle some exceptions. Like when a user goes rouge or when a user starts using unfair methods to gain rep

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: They are the neutral exceptional error handlers. They solve problems which need a "referee" to solve or find an answer. Apart from this the help the site by cleaning, merging and guiding the community. How much time do you have to devote to janitorial tasks? - Well I actually have a lot to spare right now. Normally I dedicate about 4 hours a day (divided of course in 15 to 20 minute pieces).

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: IMO moderation is a task for keeping a site functioning, akin to the Pipeworks workers and electricians in The City of Ember, or other books of the sort. There is little fun downtime, and one's day is spent reviewing flags, and staying within the NDA. This job requires impartiality, maturity, and time. Also, lots and lots of manual labor.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Apart from ruling with an iron fist (just kidding, my fists are titanium :), moderators are here to take care of the less glamorous tasks that may come up on the site, such as turning answers into comments, driving off trolls and spammers, helping users who have lost their way, and in general - doing a lot of behind the scenes work to both keep the peace and the smoothness of the community.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: IMO, Moderators act as the human exception handler, handling flags and doing janitorial work.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Pretty much the same as high rep users. To some extent, flags are a way to speed up the process, but they guide the community, preferably through gentle nudging. I'm a firm believer in soft power over hard power

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fossfreedom fossfreedom asked: There are many great candidates here - why should I elect you instead of someone else? What makes you stand-out from the crowd?

FEichinger FEichinger answered: I disagree with the very notion of judging myself or other candidates. I do have an opinion, but I do not think this should be voiced publicly.

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Comparing myself to other candidates is like comparing a Hershey bar to another Hershey bar. We are all good, support the community, have the same ideals when Ubuntu is concerned and are actually advocates of Ubuntu (Reason why we are active on Ubuntu)...

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado continued: If I had to actually answer this I would say nothing. Nothing is different from me or any of the other members that contribute to AU on a daily basis, helping the community the best they can.

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: I also disagree with selecting by proving oneself "better" than others. Prove yourself competent, and the voters will see your positives, not tohers' negatives.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: that's really not something I like to discuss, as I've said numerous times - the moderators we have are the choice of the community. That said, I think what makes me stand out from some of the candidates is my depth of experience with the site, though in many ways, I'm still a learner - like all of us - still plastic. I would humbly decline puffing myself up vs anyone else.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: I think I am pleasant to work with and also have a geographical advantage. Living in the other side of the world to the current mod team. :)

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: As I said in my election pitch, wide experience on how SE as a whole works, and a presense on most of the site. There're candidates who've done a lot more than me on AU, but I can help faciliatate things like better migrations between sites - something I feel AU can do better. We hardly migrate anything

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Grace Note Grace Note asked: War has broken out across the Stack Exchange Network. Ask Ubuntu has enough troops that you could deploy them to take down one rival site. Which do you take down: Super User, Arqade, or Unix & Linux?

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Do I need to answer that?

Amith KK Amith KK continued: Well. I'd prefer not to wage war. U&L could be absorbed into us though

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: None. I sign a peace treaty with them. Wait for them to engage and kill each other. Once they are fewer than us, weaker, then we proceed to "talk to them". one at a time.

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: That depends. By "take down", if you mean by spamming and trolling, none, since that's against general network-wide policy. If you mean by shutting down the site in favor of us, I'd lean in favor of taking down U&L, as it seems to be a crossover site between AU(Ubuntu only) and SU(any OS and/or hardware)

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Discourage fighting among the sites, contact mods of the site saying that there are rouge elements at your site to best handle the possible cross posting and chaos.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: While I'm a firm believer that we really shouldn't have so much hostility (and my personal preferense SO isn't on the list), if I had to choose, I'd go with Arqade, as I believe the Q&A setup is not the best per se for the gaming topic.

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: Super User most likely, because they use Windows. Windows is inherently evil, everyone should use Doors.

On a serious (lol?) note, I don't think I would need troops from Ask Ubuntu in such a war. I'd just return to my normal life... and avoid the war :)...

then come back and take over the world after the warring factions have destroyed their governmental structure! MUAHAHAHA... ahem, I mean, tee-hee.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Arqade.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: I'd unite them, get SF on my side, and attack SO.

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  • It's remarkably difficult to determine which juicy bits here are in jest and which in deadly earnest!
    – Caleb
    Commented Feb 16, 2013 at 11:32
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Shog9 Shog9 asked: Comments: more like footnotes, or more like those things under YouTube videos?

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Comments are not for chitchat. They are for site moderation reasons, such as suggesting duplicates. Therefore, more footnotes and managerial remarks, and less opinion about the post.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: Not like YouTube. Reading youtube comments is maddening, so comments should be on-topic, and most used for asking for further information.

FEichinger FEichinger answered: Comments should mostly be used for valuable but also tangential or supportive (as in: "Did you try this?") remarks. If it goes beyond that, it often already fits as an actual post. So, footnotes. Definitely.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Yeah, more like footnotes indeed "Did you try this?" sorta stuff . Youtube is not the best example of commenting

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: A bit of both, more of the former than the latter. Comments should (ideally) be for requests of clarification (in the case of questions), giving guidance on writing a better question/answer, or for explaining an action (such as a down/close vote). However, being that we are all human, I see no problem with occasional (and in rare cases) extended comment threads related to either humour or mild discussion (e.g. two persons are in vastly differing time zones and chat would be impossible).

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Like those things under youtube although it depends how one uses them. I feel they are there to help the OP enhance the question or the user that answered to explain it better. They are like tips that others leave behind to help others. Of course this is my way of viewing it.

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Comments are supposedly for additional brandishing. So, I would go with footnotes.

Journeyman Geek Journeyman Geek answered: Comments are the ultimate metamoderation tools. They provide an insight into what someone is thinking. Everyone needs to comment more when voting or flagging, myself included

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Shog9 Shog9 asked: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR?

jokerdino jokerdino answered: Yellow and then blue.

Amith KK Amith KK answered: Blue

ObsessiveSSOℲ ObsessiveSSOℲ answered: Transparent.

mateo_salta mateo_salta answered: somewhere between teal and turquoise

FEichinger FEichinger answered: #dd4814

Luis Alvarado Luis Alvarado answered: Rainbow like unicorns with chocolate chip fire breathing laser ponies

RolandiXor RolandiXor answered: blue. It is the colour of my death ray

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