Threads FAQ
What is a thread?
A thread is Newser's way of connecting a string of stories that make up an ongoing narrative or address a particular issue. In threads, we assemble both Newser articles and related web content -- along with images, video, and background material -- to capture the bigger picture or story line. The same tools editors use to create threads can also be used by registered users to create threads on subjects of interest to them. Users are also invited to contribute to threads created by others.
How do I start a thread?
Once you become a registered user, you just sign into Newser.com and select the My Account Link in the upper right. Under the My Threads tab you'll see a button that allows you to start a new thread. Click it, and you're ready to roll.
What can my thread be about?
Anything -- a news event, a place, an ongoing investigation, a hot-button issue, a hot mess of a celeb. The first step in thread creation requires that you input a thread name and related keywords -- this will return existing Newser threads. You can then choose continue with your thread, or opt to edit an existing thread instead. It doesn't matter if there's already a thread on your topic. But if you're hoping to have your thread featured, you might want to focus on a specific angle.
I see the word "beta" attached to threads -- what's that mean?
While we're ready to have users try their hand at creating threads, we know the interface isn't perfect. That's why our threads debut is a beta release: We're unveiling all the features we hoped to have ready for our initial launch, but we know there may be some pesky bugs or performance issues. If you give threads a go and hit any roadblocks, no matter how large (something doesn't work) or small (you find a particular step annoying), let us know via our Contact page.
Are the threads I create any different from threads created by Newser?
Format-wise, no: your thread will have the same features (articles, video, links) and be built from the same content (Newser archives, AP photos, etc.). The only difference between user generated threads and editorially created threads is how they appear on the website. By default, user generated threads won't appear on the following editorially created pages:
- homepage
- section homepages
- rollovers
- story pages
- other threads
How many threads can I create?
Newser's three user levels allow for increasing degrees of contribution. Any registered user can create
20 threads; trusted contributors max out at 50; honorary editors can create an unlimited number.
So where do my threads appear?
They're accessible from the following entry points:
- The thread URL: Your thread has a unique direct URL that you can share via email, digg, etc.
- Your profile URL: Your user name also creates a distinct URL for your profile page, which you can share with friends.
- Search results: A section on the search results page will display a list of related user generated threads.
How can I let people know about my threads?
You can pass on the thread directly from the thread page through the Share icon in the upper right portion of the page. You can also pass along the link to your profile page so friends and family can see the entirety of what you've created.
I've rocked the first twenty threads. How do I become a trusted contributor?
Users will be promoted based on editorial discretion to start, and rules for automated promotions will be put in place after our initial release. To request your permissions be expanded, please visit the contact page, select Threads as your "purpose of inquiry" and convince us of your greatness.
I built my thread, now I want to update it. How do I add content?
Go into the "My Threads" tab on you profile page and select "edit" -- this will take you to a ready-to-edit version of your thread. You can also go directly to the thread page and select "edit this thread" near the thread name. Once the thread is in edit mode, you make changes directly to the area where each item is located. So if you want to add a photo, go to the photo box in the right rail and select "edit."
I'm reading a thread that someone else created and it's missing something -- can I contribute?
Any registered user can add or delete content to any public, unlocked thread. (There are some very high limits to prevent spam and misuse; for instance, general registered users can make up to 100 additions and deletions per day). Do I have to have created a thread to be able to edit someone else's? Nope. You just have to be a registered user.
Why can't I edit every thread?
Newser editors have the ability to lock down certain Newser threads; any locked thread can only be altered by Newser's editorial staff. Users can also lock their threads.
How can I quickly tell if changes have been made to my thread?
Your My Threads page will also list when the thread was last updated, allowing you to take a quick glance without going in the thread itself. But you can get much more specific: All threads have a "View History" link just below the name of your thread on the thread page. Click it to view a history page that shows all the adds, updates, and deletes in reverse date order (most recent first).
Featured Threads
How do I get featured?
Our editors search user-gen threads daily in search of standouts. If you think yours is a gem, please visit the contact page, select Threads as your "purpose of inquiry" and give yourself a shout out.
Where do featured threads appear?
Any thread that has been featured by our editor behaves like Newser's editorial thread, and can appear in the following places:
- homepage
- section homepages
- rollovers
- story pages
- other threads
Is Newser down with censorship?
We're not prudes, but we don't appreciate content that is purposefully profane or irrelevant. Addition of such content may result removal of the user's threads and disabling the user.
I've found spam and/or inappropriate content on a thread. What should I do?
If you've stumbled upon content that seems inappropriate, please delete. When you choose to remove content, you'll be asked why. Reasons for removal include:
- spam
- off topic
- bad link
- duplicate
- other
When an item is removed and marked as 'spam', the adding user will be issued a 'strike'. When a user accumulates 3 strikes, they're out, meaning they will automatically be disabled from adding or editing any threads.
Someone totally wrecked my thread. What do I do?
There is certainly the possibility that a user who is removing content could abuse the system. We will be monitoring for this type of abuse. If someone added or removed from your thread in an improper manner, please alert our editors.
How do I keep people from touching my thread?
You have the ability to lock or unlock your thread. When it's locked, it's off-limits to the general public (Newser editors do have limited access to it, however). You can also choose to publish or unpublish your thread -- when it's in the unpublished state, only you are able to edit it. On the downside, you're the only person who can see it, too.
Just signed in, but suddenly I can't add to threads. Why?
You've probably been disabled due to three or more reports that you added spam to one or more threads. If you believe that you've been erroneously locked out, please visit the contact page, select Threads as your "purpose of inquiry" and let us know that you'd like to be reactivated.