Exactly, I would love that. Rather, make the BST a paid section. For a certain subscription fee, people will be able to post threads there. I believe a subscription fee like getafreelancer should be good enough ($12 per month). Also, the BST section of DP is one of the most busy marketplace for webmasters on the net, and it sure will prove to be a very good earning stream. These are my two cents. What do others think?
Also, here is a model I am thinking off. This way the forum will not have to change much and will retain its original charm. * When posting threads, the poster will be asked if they are posting a one time thread (for sale of a single product - after the sale, the thread is no longer required) or a regular thread (a thread that stays permanent for sale of a regular service or product). * For a one time thread, they should be charged a small fee per thread (maybe 20-50 cents). * For a regular thread, the seller will have to pay a monthly fee (Maybe $5+) This way, most of the spammers will be weeded out. And ofcourse the paid membes might spam or bump too. In that case, you got the infractions and bans to apply. Reputed and honest members do care about their accounts, and won't risk their business by bumping unnecessary. This way, I believe the number of threads that run on BST will decrease by about 75%, I am quite confident about that. Will less number of threads in the market, sellers will have to care less about bumping, also, the mods will see less number of infraction worthy posts. This way, DP forum will remain DP forum, you dont have to direct the traffic towards a new marketplace somewhat like getafreelancer or ebay. I work a lot on getafreelancer too. But honestly, I really believe DP forum is kinda different and would love to see it remain like that. About the idea of closing BST: Well, I earn a lot on that forum. However, I also work on GAF, Elance and Scriptlance too. I would just try harder for extra works there if the forum is closed. But unfortunately, DP is the only earning source for a lot of people here. I believe that you should not be this cruel towards them. Again, I know you have your rights, but if the whole problem can be tackled in an easier way, then why not??