How do you rank these factors in your decision to read and/or respond to a post:

1. the topic;
2. the reviewer;
3. length of time since the initial post;
4. size of the thread;
5. some other factor]s].

Do the same considerations apply across muliple Boards, or do they vary from Board to Board?

Thanx.

the rest are important, especially the reviwer.

So I would rank: 1 (3,4) 2.

I have to say that I look at the topic, then the poster.
There are some posters I will always read/respond to.
Then there are those who get beligerent or rude to someone who I sometimes respond to.
But, mostly, people who hide behind an alias are those that I don't care to hear from or respond to.
I do have some friends who post on these boards and I will always read their thoughts and in most cases, respond.

Just my opinion...
B

Because I think that you are one of the most considerate people on this board. Plus, it helps when you know someone. Wink!

Hugs,
Ciara

there are some I will always read and respond to.

Ditto on your response!

Just my opinion...
B

Some posts are just so ridiculous I just have to chime it.

Actually, I think you listed them in the right order.  The topic is the first thing.  If it's interesting, I'll read it, and if they say anything to which I think I can contribute, I will.  

Next are the reviewers.  There are several whose posts I will read simply because their names are on it.  I have found that some people on this board are very intersting to read.  

The other factors don't matter as much to me, beyond the idea that I know that if I respond to something written a month ago no one will read what I wrote, so I'm not likely to add to it.

 If it's a long thread, it usually suggests there is something interesting in it.  

Finally, I always read threads about new Providers or Agencies.  I have so much to learn that any information I can get here would help.

Fred

Quite often a guilty pleasure on this end as well!