Message Boards

Message boards are online forums within the platform that allow members to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge. They function similarly to online community message boards, fostering discussions on various topics.

Creating a Board

1. From the main menu, navigate to "Features" and then "Message Boards."
2. (Optional) Designate moderators to review messages before public posting.
3. (Optional) Define notification preferences for moderators regarding new messages.
4. Click "Create Board."
5. Enter a descriptive board name and purpose in the designated fields.
6. (Optional) Organize boards by category (helpful for large numbers of boards).
7. (Optional) Limit board access to specific projects, committees, or members.
8. (Optional) Require moderator approval for topics and posts.
9. (Optional) Restrict email replies to the topic creator for focused communication.
10. (Optional) Limit board participation to full members only.
11. (Optional) Customize the organization's nickname displayed in email subject lines.
12. (Optional) Enable email-based topic creation and replies by entering a unique alphanumeric handle (lowercase only). This handle will become part of the board's email address (e.g., "abc123@chamberorg.com").
13. (Optional) Create a custom footer for emails sent from this board.
14. Save the board.

Creating Topics

Members can create topics in two ways:

• Through the Platform: Select a board and click "Add Topic" on the topic list page.
• Via Email (for email-enabled boards): Send an email directly to the board's specific address. Refer to the "Email-List" help section for details.

1. (Platform method) Click on the document icon or "Add New Topic."
2. Enter a clear and concise topic name and description. For email-enabled boards, the email subject line becomes the topic name, and the body becomes the description.
3. (Optional) Pin the topic to the top of the board for increased visibility.
4. (Optional) Send notifications about the new topic to opted-in members.

Posting Responses as a Member

1. Opted-in members will receive notification emails with a login link.
2. Alternatively, access the board through the Member Menu > "Communication" > "Message Boards."
3. Choose your notification preference: immediate for each post/reply or daily digest.
4. Select the board and the specific topic you wish to respond to.
5. Click "Reply to Topic" to submit your response.
6. To reply to an existing comment within a topic, click "Quote."