Discussion Forum or Social Network?

Nowadays, forums are becoming more like social networking platforms. It seems like there are now the two different solutions that administrators have to choose from when creating a new website.
Some really like the social networking route that forums are taking, but others prefer the original, discussion board-only setup.

Which do you prefer? Do you like the social-networking direction of growth, or would you rather stick to a forum's roots and only sport the discussion boards?

Are standalone message boards becoming a thing of the past?
And which is more appropriate, and in what situations?

Discuss!

 

Depending on what kind of forums you run a social network kind of forum is needed. In my opinion, on forums that are traveling forums, nationality forum and those forums that are for dating and all that stuff, I guess a forum with social network would be ok.

On another situation where the forum is for designers, webmasters, I think that a discussion board set up only would be good. I guess I am very boring and so, but I'd prefer a discussion board only set up with a couple of modifications.

I wouldn't want any drama to arise from something seen in my forum since social network-like sites contain a lot of drama, perhaps a little too much.

 

I prefer to be full-out message board. The typical type of website when you think message board/forum (without this whole social networking movement). I dislike everything about social networking websites and concepts. I just want to reply to threads.

 

I personally think I want to see the direction vB software and others take in the next few versions before I decide if I like this or not. I still don't like the social groups interface and don't see what good they serve. The members like their albums and friends list though.

 

I think a balance between the two is good depending on the niche of course, but on our teen forums we try to be social networky as possible as teens like that

 

Indeed. You guys have hit the nail right on the head.

 

I agree that a good balance is something that should be maintained. That would make it a great solution for most people, regardless of their preferences.