[Let's Discuss] Are comments dead?

[da_marketing]

I'm all for an active community, but from what I've seen thus far, websites with even millions of visits per month are not even getting anywhere close to the number of comments as one would expect.

So, what do you think -- are comments really dead?

 

[reddflix]

half of visitor using mobile now, that's why comment almost dying (it's hard just to saying a single word )

 

[JetBlack101]

Yah, plus why would I keep commenting on every website that asks me for a comment. "Add a comment" overload in my mind. For my sites, I turned them off just so I don't get spammed.

 

[Imz]

Depends on the site, if it's general news for example, most people are in consumption mode.

If it's a product related article, readers might be more inclined to chip in with their opinions.

 

[1Enigma]

Depends on the site, if it's general news for example, most people are in consumption mode.

I seen people in fight mode on the Live News Feed. I never been so engaged and watching a keyboard fight.

 

[Imz]

I seen people in fight mode on the Live News Feed. I never been so engaged and watching a keyboard fight.

I guess when it's political news the far right and hard left go at it.

 

[1Enigma]

I guess when it's political news the far right and hard left go at it.

Nope it was a hurricane feed.

 

[coolbreez]

Not sure about that as people feel comfortable sharing their opinions on the likes of Twitter and Facebook. I think it depends on the layout of the website and the admin. If it's simple to enter a comment without having to log into the likes of Facebook or Google then people will be more inclined to comment. However if the sign up process is too lengthy or open then people will be discouraged because of the lack of anonymity.

On many websites like Bleachers report and Mail Online for UK people comments are very much alive.

 

[Imz]

Nope it was a hurricane feed.

How do you fight over a hurricane, was it climate change ambassadors versus deniers?

 

[1Enigma]

How do you fight over a hurricane, was it climate change ambassadors versus deniers?

They were just fighting like 16 year olds in the parking of Walmart after 2:00 a.m.
Insults

 

[da_marketing]

Not sure about that as people feel comfortable sharing their opinions on the likes of Twitter and Facebook. I think it depends on the layout of the website and the admin. If it's simple to enter a comment without having to log into the likes of Facebook or Google then people will be more inclined to comment. However if the sign up process is too lengthy or open then people will be discouraged because of the lack of anonymity.

On many websites like Bleachers report and Mail Online for UK people comments are very much alive.

You're right, I've seen Mail Online comments. They are downright cancer just like the articles on the site, but interesting, nonetheless. So conclusion: people (mostly) comment when they're triggered?

 

[coolbreez]

You're right, I've seen Mail Online comments. They are downright cancer just like the articles on the site, but interesting, nonetheless. So conclusion: people (mostly) comment when they're triggered?

The articles are filler content designed to provoke a reaction from readers which is a success almost every time. The timing and tone of the articles (watch the titles) are meticulously planned to ensure maximum engagement resulting in it generating multi-millions of views on a monthly basis. Whenever discussed so many people like yourself say it's an awful site yet why is it so popular? They've found a formula that works and are shamelessly capitalising on it until the gravy train ends (not anytime soon by the looks of it).

Traditional comments where you had to fully sign up and verify your info are dead, but websites with simplified info and built upon user input are very much alive. If you can somehow make a blog/website in that way you'll be printing money.

 

[da_marketing]

The articles are filler content designed to provoke a reaction from readers which is a success almost every time. The timing and tone of the articles (watch the titles) are meticulously planned to ensure maximum engagement resulting in it generating multi-millions of views on a monthly basis. Whenever discussed so many people like yourself say it's an awful site yet why is it so popular? They've found a formula that works and are shamelessly capitalising on it until the gravy train ends (not anytime soon by the looks of it).

Traditional comments where you had to fully sign up and verify your info are dead, but websites with simplified info and built upon user input are very much alive. If you can somehow make a blog/website in that way you'll be printing money.

No, I couldn't agree more. I actually meant, and don't get me wrong, the content is awful but I like their strategy. I hate to say it, but in a way, I love Daily Mail and Mail Online. I stumble upon their website every now and then, unable to fathom how a trash of a site is still attracting millions of visitors every single month. I am a fan, I should say.

Recent algorithmic updates, however, have reportedly affected Mail Online's traffic. The SEO guy posted on Google forums they lost around 50% traffic. Must be the clogged UI, I suppose!?

 

[coolbreez]

No, I couldn't agree more. I actually meant, and don't get me wrong, the content is awful but I like their strategy. I hate to say it, but in a way, I love Daily Mail and Mail Online. I stumble upon their website every now and then, unable to fathom how a trash of a site is still attracting millions of visitors every single month. I am a fan, I should say.

Recent algorithmic updates, however, have reportedly affected Mail Online's traffic. The SEO guy posted on Google forums they lost around 50% traffic. Must be the clogged UI, I suppose!?

Sorry I was also agreeing with you, I just wanted to add a bit more to my initial comment. I wouldn't be surprised if that is the case, considering their authority probably started going downhill since Wikipedia removed them as a source. I'm sure they have a good team behind them that will help them bounce back.

 

[Total Noob]

I have absolutely no data to back this up, but my hunch is this. Traditional comments offer no gratification. First the comment needs to be approved, then after that it just sits there. Websites with a lot of comments... Facebook/Reddit/Disqus etc... all allow the comments to be posted instantly, and offer gratification through upvotes.