I’ve been asked many times: Should a forum stand alone or should it be more of a website with content and other features. This is a no brainer for me simply because when I started my website it was only static content and no forum. I added the forum to my site a year after I put it online as I noticed visitors trying to communicate using the guest book.
Poof. A forum was added and my website was then sticky, bringing visitors back to lurk or participate in discussions.
Yes, I’m sure a forum could be launched without content. But I think its key to extend your website beyond the bounds of the forum. Offer some content or articles about your topic. Write it yourself or find copyright free articles for use to match your site. Keep your site updated with fresh content and fresh articles in addition to the forum activity. Your members might be a great source for contributing to the articles. If you use vBulletin, check vbulletin.org for a hack to use your forums as a content management system.
So my suggestion even if you have all ready started a forum, add content. Take a step forward into providing more for your visitors and members. Content is king. 
By Kathy of HysterSisters
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