Private message system is clumsy and needs to improve

[altenbach]

One of the problems with the private messaging system here is the way it is organized. This is so last century!

Why are "inbox" and "sent messages" two different tabs? this makes following a multi message conversation very painful because related messages are scattered all over the place.

I suggest that "inbox" and "sent messages" are combined and conversations grouped into threads. (e.g. similar to the gmail system) Should not be too difficult, because a lot of the forum code can probably be re-used for this.

There is also no obvious way to search my private messages. Am I missing something?

Thanks!

[Laura F.]

Hi Christian -

I don't think you're missing anything, the system could definitely use some improvement. I'll submit the suggestions.

Thanks,

Laura

[Ray.R]

Are many people using PM?  Other than the occasional stranger wanting help instead of posting in the forum...

[Laura F.]

I use it often   It's quite handy for me!

[JB]

I have used it... twice !

[JÞB]

There have been a few times I've used it to side-bar with other members on off forum topics.  And, I do have a pat response for the posters wanting private tutoring that directs them to the correct community. 

I personally wouldn't use it to carry on long conversations- we have e-mail and telephones for that but a tip or a nudge that X-poster is asking details in your area of expertise can show up on occaision.  I've recieved some good off-line advice on nuggeting as well.  the PM feature set seems to meet my expectations.

Of course, we don't need to PM Laura- she must twitch every time a capitol L is posted

[Laura F.]

I do get emails when my name is posted

Only every once in a while are they for a Laura that is not me.

[Ray.R]

So...

If we want to send you an email to jjust say "Hi" and wish you a good day, all we have to do is write your name...

Hi Laura,

Wishing you a nice day.  And thank you for all you do on this forum.

🙂

--- you got mail ---

EDIT SECTION:

I can picture Sheldon from "The Big Bang Theory" making that discovery.

All of a sudden, the forum would be flooded with:

knock..knock...knock

Laura...

knock..knock...knock

Laura...

knock..knock...knock

Laura...

[Laura F.]

Thanks Ray!

Luckily I only get one email every time my name is used in a single post

[Ben]

I hope it only looks at the body of the post.

Ben