Hypothetical Missing Administrator

[willoberry]

This is a general question that came up in  a theorizing "what if" discussion 

If an administrator goes missing and leaves no forwarding address (so to speak)  can anything be done to get administrative  "powers" assigned to another member ?

How long a time has to pass  since the start of the admin's absence before something can be done? 

As I understand it, no one can register for an admin-less  forum because there is no one to "OK" applications so the forum doors and windows are locked as far as new members if it is a "registered only" site and guests cannot even see into the forum.

[Scott]

Feb 15, 2024 17:15:06 GMT -8 willoberry said:

This is a general question that came up in  a theorizing "what if" discussion 

If an administrator goes missing and leaves no forwarding address (so to speak)  can anything be done to get administrative  "powers" assigned to another member ?

How long a time has to pass  since the start of the admin's absence before something can be done? 

We've started a process a short while back that allows forum admins to establish with us a Succession Agreement (sort of like a will) where they can state what they would like to happen in the event of their absence.

If no agreement is in place and a request comes to us it is reviewed on a case-by-case basis since all forums are different and not all circumstances are the same. There isn't a set time frame (how long the admin is absent for) that qualifies a request. 

It's important to remember that admins are people too, with life events that can cause an unexpected absence. This doesn't necessarily mean they won't return.  

Sorry I can't be more exacting, but there isn't a one size fits all - and their shouldn't be.  It wouldn't be fair to the community.

As I understand it, no one can register for an admin-less  forum because there is no one to "OK" applications so the forum doors and windows are locked as far as new members if it is a "registered only" site and guests cannot even see into the forum.

This really depends on if there are current staff that have the power to approve new members.

[willoberry]

Thanks for the prompt reply Scott.

You've answered  the questions under discussion.

That succession agreement sounds like a really good idea which administrators would be wise to implement along with giving a trusted member "powers" that can be used in emergencies. 

Will relay the information !