The Dons Trust board is excited to announce the development of a new, modern members platform hosted on Discord. This move aims to create a vibrant and engaging environment for members to interact, collaborate, and stay connected with the Trust. Here’s everything you need to know about the transition:
Why Are We Leaving ProBoards?
ProBoards has served as the Trust’s online forum since December 2019. Initially set up as a temporary solution, its outdated design and limited features have made it less effective for our needs. Key reasons for the change include.
- Outdated technology: The platform is difficult to use, both for members and administrators and provides very limited analytics data
- Low engagement: Survey responses and the limited metrics we have show that ProBoards has not been effective in fostering member interaction
- Limited functionality: ProBoards lacks the flexibility to support new features or improvements.
Why Discord?
After exploring alternative platforms, Discord was chosen as the best option to replace ProBoards. Key benefits include:
- Modern and user-friendly: Discord has an intuitive design and is available as both a desktop website and a mobile app.
- Regular updates: The platform is actively developed with new features and improvements.
- Expanded opportunities: Discord offers extensive text and voice channels, allowing for live events, matchday discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions.
Key Features of the New Discord Server
The new server, named the The Dons Discord server will offer a much-expanded experience compared to ProBoards, including:
- Live events: Interviews, discussions, and live Q&A sessions hosted directly on the server
- Matchday discussions: Dedicated channels for live text and voice chats during matches
- Community engagement: Areas for general discussion, club updates, and community events
- Information sharing: Channels for Dons Trust news, meeting minutes, and recordings of SGMs and AGMs
- Event calendar: A dedicated area to list upcoming and planned events.
Timeline
To ensure a smooth transition, both ProBoards and Discord will remain live throughout January:
- 1 January 2025 – The Dons Discord Server will be open for testing
- 27 January 2025 – The Discord will open to all
- 31 January – ProBoards due to close
During this period, our focus will shift to Discord, while ProBoards will only receive basic moderation.
If you want to get involved in the testing please email: secretary@thedonstrust.org
How to join the Dons Discord Server
Joining the new platform is easy:
- Visit the link provided by the Dons Trust (to be shared closer to the launch date)
- Create a Discord account if you don’t already have one
- Follow the instructions to join the server.
Data transfer and ProBoards closure
Unfortunately, data from ProBoards cannot be transferred to Discord. Members wishing to save their account data can do so by following the instructions available on the ProBoards website. Moderators will be available to assist anyone needing help during this time.
Looking ahead
The new Discord platform represents a significant upgrade, offering more ways for members to engage with the Trust and each other. By hosting events and fostering lively discussions, we hope to build a vibrant online community that reflects the spirit of AFC Wimbledon.
We encourage all members to join us on this exciting new platform starting 1 January. Let’s work together to create a dynamic and inclusive space for all Dons Trust members.
COYD