Notice to all visitors and members of the Train-Sim.Com message forums: If you plan on using a signature banner in your posts, we would like to remind you that there is a maximum size for banners. That maximum is 450 pixels wide by 120 pixels high, and not to exceed 25k. Your compliance is appreciated. FORUM RULES Problems? There are two common reasons for problems with logging in and posting messages. The first is that you are running a firewall that prevents your messages from being sent to the server. The other is that you have cookies disabled; the DCForum software requires cookies to work properly.
I started this as a reply to the MFT thread, but I feel its content is important enough to warrant a new thread.Newbies are constantly asking basic questions, things that Jim has already addressed in the Instruction Manual. I suggest adding a permanent line to the "Message" stating:"Newbies (GreenThumbs) are strongly encouraged to read the Instruction Manual at http://yardduty.com/, where most of the questions you may have as a beginner will be answered."Comments about modifications to this statement are encouraged. This is something all veterans who regularily participate in the chat should consider, so that we aren't repeatedly answering the same basic questions, such as "How do I set up my email?" and "How do I turn off Mainline Trains?" Additionally, I will be putting together a tutorial discussing proper methods of blocking trains. Please comment upon what information, advice, etc., you think I should include in the tutorial.-Dave Conrail Albany Division ...striving for "Continuous Quality Improvement" http://gcdranet.homelinux.com/davehonan/Yard Duty Superintendent of Maps http://members.trainorders.com/dwhonan/yd/projects.html
Dave,I understand your frustration and you are correct that most questions are addressed in the instructions and FAQ. But remember, you can always turn newbies to the instructions, as this is what I used to do. Funny, but if I remember correctly, you used to scold me for telling people to read the instructions instead of holding their hand. It is simply impossible to explain the game via chat and no one should feel obliged to do so.However please realize one thing. It is impossible to gauge the interest of a GreenThumb in Yard Duty, unless you specifically ask. You cannot assume that a newbie even likes YD! (Just because you and I love it, doesn't mean a newbie will) They may have only 50% interest in the game and just want to check it out to see what it's like. After all, it is a free download. This is why I ask newbies "Are you having fun?". If they say "Yes, this is so awesome", then it is worth helping them. If they say "I don't understand how it works", then don't waste your time. Let them read the instructions and the website. If they are interested enough they will persevere.This is how I look at it: "Some people won't understand the game, no matter how much you explain it. They just don't 'get it'. Some people 'get it', but won't like it even after they understand the game. And then some do 'get it' and will love the game."So I just added a simple walk-through tutorial. If the person does the tutorial in its entirty, the will know the 'magic password'. Just ask for the magic password, and if they don't know it, steer them to the tutorial. After doing the tutorial, I think they will have more intelligent questions.Anyway, it is always at your descretion to help someone or not.Thanks for you devotion. To YD, that is. Not me. Jim
Yard Duty, The National Freight Yard Simulation - www.YardDuty.com
