Debra Y.

I have parlayed my degree in Psychology (with a minor in Social Theory), and a certificate in Creative Communications (journalism) into a skill set which has resulted in nine years of working in all aspects of Online Community Management. While subject matter may differ, central to the success of any community are the same tenets/methodologies of the Liaison/Moderator(s): to function in the capacity of disciplinarian/diplomat, ensuring that the community is content rich and topical, fostering growth by maintaining/stimulating the flow of conversation, extinguishing the flames that fan the fires of abuse, and doing so in a manner which is cross-culturally and age sensitive while protecting the all-important company branding. My duties have included establishing online community guidelines (a constantly evolving process), managing volunteer moderators, evaluating user feedback, and assessing user metrics. I have moderated online communities which span a variety of subject matter including CBC and CTV newsgroups, Molson and Much Music. I have taken several courses regarding online child safety, issues of copyright and racism. Also experienced in Web Content Creation, Ad Copy for online retailers and "Ghost Blogging".