Are forums dying out? The ultimate guide to a successful community

You might think that forums have had their day in the age of social media, Reddit and Discord. After all, many users prefer to spend their time in fast, dynamic channels with instant feedback.

The reality is different: Forums are still a valuable tool - especially for niche communities and specialised interest groups. They offer a structured space for in-depth discussions and sustainable knowledge sharing - something that is often lost in the fleeting feeds of social networks.

The digital transformation presents forum operators and community managers with new challenges. If you want to be successful in 2025 and beyond, you not only have to maintain your forum, but actively develop it further. The market has changed, but the cornerstones of successful communities remain the same.

In this guide, you will learn how to set up a new forum or revitalise an inactive community with fresh ideas. With proven strategies and practical steps, you can turn your forum into a lively platform. Because one thing is certain: forums still have a future in 2025 - if you do it right.

The transformation of online communities: forums in the digital era

Forums experienced their golden age in the 1990s and 2000s. Whether gaming, technology or hobbies - lively communities sprang up everywhere. I founded my first forum in 2001, when I was just 12 years old. It was an all-round community based on PHPBB2/WBB2, in which not only my entire school was active, but even pupils 800 kilometres away. With the right development, it could have become the German Facebook - but today it no longer exists.

Forums in transition: Of weddings and challenges

The magic of forums remains. Five years later, I founded a fitness forum that, in its heyday, had hundreds of active members per day and even ran its own supplement shop. Today, it still receives over 100,000 visitors per month, but mainly serves as a test forum for my plugins, as only a handful of the thousands of members remain.

With the rise of social networks, Reddit and Discord, the nature of online communication has fundamentally changed. These platforms offer quick, often superficial interactions, while forums promote long-term discussions and knowledge building. Many forum operators have had to abandon their communities or have seen their activity plummet. Why? Social networks are more accessible, offer instant feedback and require less commitment from users.

Why forums remain unique

But what is lost is depth. While a topic quickly gets lost in the crowd on Reddit, forum posts remain visible for years and grow with each new discussion. Experts exchange ideas, collective knowledge is built up and topics can evolve over long periods of time. This is precisely the strength of forums: they are sustainable stores of knowledge and not just platforms for quick answers.

Forums continue to be invaluable, especially in niche communities, for example in the areas of fitness or technology. They connect like-minded people, enable in-depth discussions and offer a knowledge base that grows over the years. These strengths still make forums relevant today - if they are used and developed correctly.

The question is therefore not: "Are forums dying out?", but rather: "How can we develop forums today so that they can hold their own in the digital era?"

Step-by-step guide: How to set up a successful forum in 2025

1. Find the right niche

Forums only stand a chance against large platforms such as Reddit or Facebook if they appeal to a specific target group. The clearer the niche, the stronger the identification of the members.

Why focus is crucial

A broadly diversified forum often loses relevance. One example of this is my all-round board mentioned above, which covered a wide range of topics from technology and lifestyle to gaming and anime. However, without a clear focus and target group loyalty, it lost activity and was eventually discontinued. Specialised forums, on the other hand, create strong, dedicated communities with in-depth discussions.

Examples of successful niche forums

• PFF.de - A community for Porsche drivers and fans with technical expertise.
• Bisafans.de - A forum for Pokémon enthusiasts to exchange news, fan creations and strategies.
• MOONSAULT.de - Germany's largest wrestling community with in-depth discussions on matches and events.

Tips for finding a niche

• Analyse trends: Which topics are currently in demand?
• Use your own interests: Passion is the best motivator.
• Include expertise: Forums with specialist knowledge offer added value and attract like-minded people.

2. High-quality content as a success factor

Forums thrive on exciting discussions and exclusive content that you won't find everywhere. While social networks often promote quick, short-lived interactions, forums enable a structured collection of knowledge and an intensive exchange among like-minded people.

How to provide valuable content

• Tutorials: Practical instructions for your target group.
• Databases: Collections of knowledge on relevant topics.
• Expert interviews: Exclusive insights from experts.

➡️ Plugins for AI content:

• Aivor: Editor integration for generating content
• KI user activity: AI content and real contributions

3. Design: The first impression counts

An appealing design ensures a professional image and promotes user loyalty.

Optimal design of the homepage

• Clear structure: Clear focus on the most important content.
• Use visual elements: Images and graphics emphasise the community atmosphere.
• Include calls to action: "Register now" or "Join the discussion" increases the conversion rate.

With the CMS article lead box plugin, you can visually highlight important posts and place them prominently. This plugin helps you to present relevant content in a targeted way so that it immediately catches the eye and new users are quickly guided to the most important topics.

➡️ Plugins for a beautiful homepage:

• CMS article opener box
• Teaser Slideshow Pro

Customised design for recognition

A unique design sets your forum apart from the competition. Darkwood.design offers exclusive styles especially for the WoltLab Suite for a professional presentation.

4. Build a strong moderation team

Moderators are the heart of a vibrant community. They promote discussions, resolve conflicts and ensure a friendly atmosphere.

Key roles of moderators

• Stimulate discussions: Initiate new topics on a regular basis.
• Strengthen community spirit: Actively involve users and provide feedback.
• De-escalate conflicts: Ensure respectful communication.

5. Incorporate interactive and social elements

Active members stay if there are attractive opportunities to participate. A proven example is the live commentary function at events, which is used on platforms such as MOONSAULT.de. During wrestling events, members exchange information in real time, which leads to a high level of activity and long-term loyalty.

Which features will be indispensable in 2025

• Contests: e.g. photo competitions or challenges. Photo competitions or challenges.
• Livestreams & Events: Virtual meetings for more community interaction.
• Forum games & Surveys: Low-threshold participation formats.

6. Create an inclusive and respectful atmosphere

A friendly community culture ensures long-term member loyalty.

How to promote a positive climate

• Clear rules of conduct: Formulate them publicly and clearly.
• Cultivate a welcoming culture: Actively integrate new members.
• Use reward systems: Reward exemplary behaviour with badges or titles.

7. Integrate additional features for user retention

In addition to discussions, advanced functions offer additional added value.

Which features enhance the forum

• Marketplace: Members can offer products or services.
• Mobile apps: Stay active on the go with the WSC Connect app.
• Exclusive content: VIP area with special access and premium content.
• Involve the community: Let your members contribute suggestions for a better forum

8. Use AI-powered activity to get started

New forums often seem empty - a deterrent for new users. AI can help simulate initial activity.

Why AI ghostwriters make sense

• Generate starter posts: Suggest relevant discussion topics.
• Encourage interaction: Engage users through questions and answers.
• SEO optimisation: AI-generated content improves findability in search engines.

➡️ Plugins for AI-supported activity:

• Aivor - The AI for your website
• AI user activity

9. Gamification

• Advancement in user level through activity, whereby users are rewarded for their participation.
• Awarding trophies for certain milestones, e.g. number of posts, years in the community or particularly helpful answers.
• Introduction of a digital currency such as JCoins, which members can earn through activities and redeem in a rewards shop.
• Leaderboards or leaderboards to provide active users with additional motivation.

➡️ Plugins for gamification:

• Gamification: User Level
• Gamification: User Progress (Box)
• JCoins: Virtual Credit

With these steps, you can create the perfect foundation for a successful forum in 2025. A clear niche, valuable content, interactive features and a strong community culture are the keys to long-term success!

Reinvigorating inactive forums: How to breathe new life into your community

Forums can lose activity after a successful phase - whether due to changing interests or a lack of maintenance. But that doesn't mean your forum is dead. With the right strategy, you can revitalise it and build an engaged community.

1. Redefining the niche

Sometimes forums lose relevance because topics or interests have changed.

Why your forum needs an update

Interests change, and what used to be a hot topic may now be outdated. Forums need to adapt flexibly to stay relevant.

Picking up on current trends

Research new developments in your niche: What topics are moving the community today? Are there any emerging trends or technologies that you can integrate? A current focus can significantly increase the attractiveness of your forum.

Relaunch with a clear focus

A relaunch with fresh branding and targeted communication can help to attract attention. This signals that your forum is active and relevant again.

2. Upgrade existing content

High-quality content remains valuable, but needs to be updated regularly.

Revise old content

Search through old posts and bring them up to date. Remove irrelevant threads, optimise existing content and ensure that important topics are prominently visible.

Include new content and experts

Invite experts for interviews or discussions. Exclusive content increases the appeal of your forum and attracts both old and new members.

SEO for more reach

Focus on SEO to make your forum more visible again. Optimise posts with relevant keywords and create fresh content to rank better in search engines. Also use social media to direct traffic to your forum.

➡️ Plugins for SEO:

• SEO texts for categories
• WoltLab Suite Forum: SEO texts

3. Reactivate the community

Former members are often the key to revitalising your forum.

Retrieve inactive members

Send targeted emails with personal incentives, such as exclusive content or new features, to encourage former members to return.

Acquire new members through social media & events

Use platforms such as Instagram, Twitter or Discord to promote your forum. Webinars, livestreams or community events can generate additional attention.

Actively involve existing members

Invite active members to participate in the relaunch. Surveys, new roles or exclusive privileges for committed members promote a sense of community and long-term participation.

4. Technical modernisation

An outdated platform can deter potential members.

Optimise software & performance

Regular updates, mobile optimisation and fast loading times are essential. An intuitive user interface makes it easier for new and old users to find their way around. I highly recommend updating to WoltLab Suite 6.1!

Integrating interactive features

Modern functions such as livestreams, surveys or forum games can increase activity and motivate users to participate regularly.

Ensure security and data protection

SSL encryption, regular backups and a well thought-out authorisation system ensure a stable and secure platform that creates trust.

These measures will not only help you reactivate your forum, but also make it successful in the long term. The key is to adapt your forum to current trends and technical requirements, provide high-quality content and build an active community.

Successful forums in 2025: strategies and best practices

Despite the dominance of social networks, there are forums that are holding their own and even growing. MOONSAULT.de, PFF.de and Bisafans.de show how clear specialisation, active community management and well thought-out structures can ensure long-term success. What are these forums doing right - and what can you learn from them?

MOONSAULT.de: Germany's largest wrestling community

Niche focus:

MOONSAULT.de is completely specialised in wrestling and offers in-depth discussions about TV shows, events and insider news. This clear focus makes it the first port of call for hardcore fans.

Success factors:

• Detailed analyses: Fans discuss more than just results here - the focus is on background stories, tactics and long-term developments.
• Live events: Real-time discussions and live tickers ensure high user engagement, especially during important wrestling events.

Best practices:

✅ Use live tickers and event chats to engage members in real time.
✅ Promote in-depth content that goes beyond superficial discussions.
✅ Offer exclusive content, such as expert opinions or interviews with insiders.

PFF.de: The Porsche Forum

Niche focus:

PFF.de is aimed specifically at Porsche owners and enthusiasts and offers technical exchange on maintenance, tuning and model advice. The exclusive focus on a premium brand attracts a particularly dedicated community.

Success factors:

• Technical expertise: Members share detailed insights into repairs, vehicle maintenance and value development.
• Exclusive marketplace: Members can buy and sell Porsche vehicles, spare parts and accessories, which makes the platform even more attractive.

Best practices:

✅ Integrate specialised features such as a marketplace to offer added value.
✅ Rely on expert knowledge to build a knowledgeable and loyal community.
✅ Promote long-term member loyalty through exclusive premium content.

Bisafans.de: Pokémon by fans for fans

Niche focus:

Bisafans.de is a central platform for Pokémon fans and covers everything from video games and trading cards to fan creations. The strong community culture keeps the forum alive.

Success factors:

• Varied fan content: Competitions, fan fiction and creative projects keep members engaged in the long term.
• Regular events: Art competitions, quizzes and community activities encourage interaction.

Best practices:

✅ Organise creative competitions to motivate the community.
✅ Cover all relevant aspects of your niche to appeal to different interest groups.
✅ Promote user-generated content such as guides or exclusive reviews.

What successful forums have in common

🔹 Clear focus on a niche: Each of these forums consistently sticks to its topic and strategically expands it.
🔹 High community participation: Live discussions, competitions or specialised functions encourage interaction.
🔹 Exclusive content: High-quality content and in-depth knowledge are crucial for long-term user loyalty.
🔹 Technical optimisation: A modern, fast and mobile-optimised platform is essential in 2025.

Best practices for your own forum

🎯 Define a clear niche and expand it in a targeted manner.
🎯 Create interactive incentives such as live tickers, marketplaces or creative competitions.
🎯 Invest in exclusive content through expert contributions and detailed tutorials.
🎯 Optimise your platform for all devices and ensure a smooth user experience.

These success factors can be applied to almost any niche - regardless of whether your forum already has an active user base or is just starting out. For smaller or new forums in particular, it is crucial to create clear structures from the outset and provide targeted interactive incentives.

The secret lies in the combination of a clear focus, strong community loyalty and high-quality content. Successful WoltLab forums that utilise these strategies can be found here.

Technical foundations for a modern and user-friendly platform

Why technology matters:
In a time when users have high expectations for performance and security, the technology behind your forum plays a central role. The best content and most active communities are of little use if your platform loads slowly, is insecure or works poorly on mobile devices. Performance, security and user-friendliness are key factors that significantly influence user loyalty.

Technical requirements:

• Responsive design:
  Your forum must function optimally on all end devices - whether desktop, tablet or smartphone. Mobile optimisation is a must nowadays, as many users access the forum via mobile devices.
• Database management:
  Clean and efficient database management is crucial to ensure the speed and stability of the forum, even with a growing number of users.
• Fast loading times:
  Forums with long loading times frustrate users and cause them to leave. Therefore, rely on optimised servers and modern technologies to ensure fast performance.
• Security standards:
  Data protection and security are more important today than ever. Implement SSL encryption and ensure that your users' data is secure at all times with regular backups.

The WoltLab Cloud offers the ideal solution here. WoltLab not only provides a powerful platform, but also ensures that all applications are always available in the latest version. With integrated security updates and regular backups, you don't have to worry about technical maintenance - WoltLab takes care of that for you. This allows you to concentrate fully on building and managing your community, while a modern and secure infrastructure ensures the best user experience in the background.

Conclusion: Forums are alive and kicking - with the right approach

Forums are still far from extinct in 2025. With a well thought-out strategy and a focus on the needs of your target group, they can not only survive but also grow. A clearly defined niche, high-quality content, active moderation and modern technology are crucial. While social networks promote quick and fleeting interactions, forums offer space for in-depth discussions and sustainable communities - an invaluable advantage.

This guide has shown that forums can either be rebuilt or successfully revitalised with targeted measures. Whether it's choosing a niche, optimising your content or making technical improvements - the course for a vibrant community can be clearly set.

Now is the perfect time to start your own forum or breathe new life into an existing one. The right tools and strategies are available - use them, realise your vision and build a community that lasts!

Bonus 1: Plugins from the most successful WoltLab forums

Bonus 2: Example of a new forum

Have you enjoyed this guide? Do you have any additions or a personal success story? Then leave a comment.