Interactive Features

At the heart of the system is member interaction, getting your members together and getting them talking. Gumbo includes a range of interactive features to make this easy and fun.

• Threaded, Moderated Message Board

  Rather than just relying on one of the one-size-fits-all free solutions, Gumbo includes our custom-developed Forum software. A powerful, multi-threaded message board with full moderation facilities, totally integrated into the rest of your website.

• Restricted Access Polls

  A simple poll script allows for quick creation and automatic archiving of polls, which can run for any length of time.

• Integrated Live Chat

  A custom-written live chat system allows for live chatting for members-only, with all chat logs available later to moderators or site administrators to follow up any complaints.

• Collaborative Encyclopedia-style Wiki

  Based on the concept of a 'Wiki', this allows members to log bits of campus lore, information for new students, comments on the local area, and any other general or specific information. Any member can edit any page, and all changes are saved (allowing moderators to roll back at any time in the event of vandalism) allowing the information stored within the Knowledge Base to grow organically over time.

• Connections

  Connections is a feature designed to bring together groups of students who share a common interest, whether it's a TV programme, a musical instrument, a sport, a hobby, or anything else for that matter.
  
  Any student can add an interest to the categorised listings, and subscribe to lists made up by others. They can opt to receive messages when new people express an interest, and view lists of all those interested in the same subjects or issues as they are, all through a slick, easy to use interface.

• Peer Advice System

  A Hint'n'Tips feature allows members to write articles on any one of a number of subjects, which are then edited and approved by Site Management before going live. Photos can be attached and uses have included advice on getting the best out of Lab Computers, Numerous Recipes, and more fun contributions like 'How to build a Student Dishwasher': which basically involved a bath, a pond-pump and a lot of washing-up liquid!

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