Does anybody out there run a totally unmodified verssion of vbulletin? Can you tell me why? What version are you running?

I have added so many things to my vbulletin that I am afraid to upgrade from the 3.01 I have to 3.03. The amount of work to re-hack the site is staggering.

But the question remains. Is the hacks that are added what make the site great? I tend to think it is the users and the topics. But to find the exact formula?

Suggestions?

It's definitely the users and topic of discussion that 'make the board'. Don't expect your community to become popular within a year, these things take time - If at all it'll become popular.

My site at www.dungeonkeepersdomain.com (http://www.dungeonkeepersdomain.com) has been up for about 5 years now. It is a rpg (role playing game) site that has a pretty popular vb3 system. I am just looking for more ideas on how to make it MORE popular.

PEOPLE!!!!!!!!! and Quality Content!!!!!!!

Period.

PEOPLE!!!!!!!!! and Quality Content!!!!!!!

Period.
OK. But what determines quality content?

OK. But what determines quality content?

The members decide what on your site is "Quatily Content".

I find that members have no problem telling you what they want to see on your site. I believe it's better to give your members what they want, or you won't keep members for long. :)

I dont know many boards who at least havent added one hack to their site, e.g. trader rating! often boards add custom hacks unique to their forums! that can attract more members!

Does anybody out there run a totally unmodified verssion of vbulletin? Can you tell me why? What version are you running?

I have added so many things to my vbulletin that I am afraid to upgrade from the 3.01 I have to 3.03. The amount of work to re-hack the site is staggering.

But the question remains. Is the hacks that are added what make the site great? I tend to think it is the users and the topics. But to find the exact formula?

Suggestions?
I have 2 forums that are stock files & style. They require as little downtime as possible.

Really no one should start off saying "I want to have a good site, now what do I do?", it's not really a proper aim or objective. What you should be asking yourself is what you want to create/design that will be useful, original and will benefit everyone in a positive way. That will make a good site. It has to be well thought out , planned, researched, optimised and tested. Hacks, gradients, grids, dots and nice smilies aren't not the foundation to site.