I've noticed a lot of large forums have no username markup for their moderators and other staff. They look exactly like regular members. I am curious why they would choose to do that. Do most of you use some form of username markup or special avatar for your staff? If you don't, why not?
I use username markup on my forum so new members can see who they need to contact if they have a problem or would just like to ask about the site in general.
I always use username markup and other forms of distinguishment. But I think the reason you don't see it on some large forums is because they may have an issue with too many members wanting to be moderators - for the wrong reasons (wanting to go on a power trip).
I am always using different color for my staff members, but the reason big boards that you mention might be because of what Nick said.
Ah, in that case I only like it when the user group is shown with color, which you would have to add into the postbit for vB. And the users online list, anywhere else is blargh to me.
We don't require a special avatar, though the username color differentiates from the registered member user group. And, they also have a different rank image.
I think an avatar (if not using a sig) is a place to describe yourself visually. On a forum I've been visiting for over 5 years I have this. It doesn't mean I'm a womanizer, it just means I like being silly when the time is right. I like putting a smile on people's faces, I guess.
Why this is not present on your AA account to go along with your custom usertitle is beyond me. :yes: