A regular web watcher first looks down to see if the Forum has enough weight by way of number of Members, Number of Online users. Statistics drive new registration in a zippy, no doubt about it. We got to respect that and build our strategy around that. However, that is not always the case especially for the one who are new to the Forum world, and also for those who are searching for specific answers.
Let us first talk about Forum Statistics and how it drive in the traffic.
Surely, forum traffic is the prime mover in bringing about major registration at the forum. A regular visitor of the forums, scroll down to the bottom of the forum board and would read the Statistics before they actually see your forum. So it is really important that you flaunt your forum statistics as prominently as possible.
The problem is when can you actually flaunt your statistics, because its the game of numbers and perception of them. My practical experience says that a forum board with statistics of around 5000 members and 15000 posts would drive in 25-30 new members a day and is good enough to flaunt.
To flaunt your statistics, put them at the top of the home page. Also include them at your signature with many modifications available. Further, send the stats in the newsletter you your signed members.
However, statistics is not the only driving force, but need to be balanced with content, discussions, and design.
