I'll be the first to admit that I have no qualifications in anything electrical, but what I do have is a can do attitude. Whenever I have put my two cents worth forward it has been based upon my own documented experiences that I have presented for others to view on this forum. Sure, you sometimes have to bite your tongue, particularly when criticism is leveled towards something you have posted, but the attitude I try to maintain is that I'm sharing my experience/knowledge. Over 1500 people have read my contributions to myswag in regard the mods I have made to my camper and other efforts. The thrill I had when the first 100 reads of my first real contribution to myswag was better than when it rolled over 1000.
I think where forums or even clubs for that matter generally have problems is where businesses get involved as they see forums or clubs as a means to sell their wares. This benefits us all, without a doubt. The benefit is quickly lost however, particularly for me, when they are aggressive towards competitors on the forum, or members who they feel have challenged their credibility and therefore their ability to make an income.