Hmm, interesting subject. I see good points on both sides. On ALR.com I like being able to see who is posting what, where they're from, age, profession, etc. Still, all of that is currently optional on the old forum. I can understand some people not wanting to put all that information up, but they often do fill out the little "bio" section.
I'm in favor of keeping things viewable to other registered members, but not to guests (is that possible to do?). Likewise, maybe you can strongly recommend that new members fill out their profile, but not make it mandatory. In the fine print before registering, you've already listed what's acceptable and not. Why not say that most members are more willing to respond if you have a profile fully filled out. That's certainly how it works in the old forum, even though it's not written anywhere.
I too like the email test for authenticity. Can that be set to happen after the user has typed in that jumbled code as well? (double security I guess).
Tim, save a drink for me, I could really use a Mai Tai, or anything with rum!
