Sites with ghost town syndrome are marked by forums with little or no activity. They join them. These behaviors extend to the Web, and web communities that rise up around existing communities are likely to have a better chance of thriving. Marc also cautions developers about unrealistic expectations. Serve constellations of people, not necessarily individuals.
Every web application is potentially a group application.
The importance of a committed moderator is often overlooked by community builders. He also likens communities to gardens, which need care and maintenance to thrive over time. This can be facilitated by means of a process handbook for democratic decision-making, and access to people who have experienced the process themselves. To follow Howard Rheingold's writings or apply to join his private web conference, Brainstorms, visit his web site. Tell us your ideas.