Convert a Forum into A Social Network

by lief
2 replies
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Can you take an existing forum and turn it into a social network?

More specifically, can you take the username/password and automatically assign it to a member in a social network?

It would seem that some forums might be better suited to a social network yet I can't think of any examples where a site migrated to a new format.

Thanks!
#convert #forum #network #social
  • Profile picture of the author bucksuper
    Lief, sure, this usually isn't too difficult. It's basically exporting user data from one database into the social network database. Have you got a social network solution yet? If not I'd suggest socialengine.net. I've had good results with them lately.

    Best of luck.
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  • Profile picture of the author lief
    Thanks - I didn't think it was a big issue.

    My next question is - why do people start social networks from scratch? Why not buy a forum and convert it to a social network.

    If you buy a forum, you have a built in user group. You can then create a subscription social network for all new members.

    The only concern I have with social networks is how to seed the first 5000 members.

    Thanks for the tip about socialengine - there doesn't appear to be one clear cut winner for the platform - can you tell me why you chose socialengine over Elgg or Buddy Press?

    Thanks!
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