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Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Usenet Newsgroup
Adding a new newsgroup to Usenet involves a structured process to ensure that the group serves a genuine interest and adheres to the established hierarchy. Here's a detailed guide on how to propose and create a new newsgroup:
1. Understand the Hierarchies
Usenet is organized into major hierarchies, commonly known as the "Big 8," which include:
- comp.*: Computer-related discussions
- news.*: Topics about Usenet itself
- sci.*: Scientific subjects
- rec.*: Recreational activities
- soc.*: Social issues
- talk.*: Debates on controversial topics
- misc.*: Miscellaneous discussions
- humanities.*: Humanities topics
Each hierarchy has specific guidelines for creating new groups. Familiarize yourself with these to determine the appropriate category for your proposed newsgroup.https://grahammitchell.com
2. Initiate a Request for Discussion (RFD)
Begin by drafting a Request for Discussion (RFD), which outlines your proposal for the new newsgroup. This document should include:
- Proposed Name: A clear and concise name for the newsgroup.
- Charter: A detailed description of the group's purpose and the topics it will cover.
- Moderation Status: Specify whether the group will be moderated. If so, provide details about the moderation process and the moderators.
Post the RFD to news.announce.newgroups and other relevant newsgroups or mailing lists related to your topic. This initiates a discussion period, typically lasting 30 days, where the community can provide feedback on your proposal.
3. Engage in the Discussion
During the discussion phase, actively participate by addressing feedback, answering questions, and making necessary revisions to your proposal. This collaborative process helps refine the proposal and gauge community interest.
4. Call for Votes (CFV)
After the discussion period, if there's sufficient support, issue a Call for Votes (CFV). This announcement should:
- Summarize the Proposal: Provide the final version of the newsgroup's name, charter, and moderation details.
- Voting Instructions: Clearly explain how to cast a vote, specifying the email address or method to submit votes.
- Voting Period: Define the duration of the voting period, typically between 21 to 31 days.
The CFV should be posted to news.announce.newgroups and other pertinent newsgroups to reach a broad audience. Wikipedia+3https://grahammitchell.com+3Newshosting+3
5. Voting and Results
Votes are collected and tallied by a neutral third party, often the Usenet Volunteer Votetakers (UVV). For the newsgroup to be created, it generally must receive at least 100 more 'yes' votes than 'no' votes and achieve a two-thirds majority in favor. After the voting period, results are posted publicly for transparency.
6. Creation of the New Newsgroup
If the vote is successful, a control message is sent out to create the new newsgroup. This message propagates across Usenet servers, officially adding the group to the hierarchy.
7. Promoting and Maintaining the Newsgroup
Once created, promote the new newsgroup to attract participants. Ensure that discussions align with the group's charter to maintain its focus and relevance.
