I was just thinking about that today as I looked at the birthday list. I've never heard of, seen them online, or seen any posts by them since I've been here.
Most of the people who's birthday is today, aren't active members. I think if they haven't contributed a post/reply since 2003-2004 then they don't need to be here hogging space/names/etc.
It'd be nice if the system automatically detected their non-functioning status, and deleted their account while keeping their 2-3 posts visible for viewing. I know that's your one big thing, not wanting potentially good information to be lost forever. But then again, most of those people come here when the scheisse hits the fan, pleads for help, and then you never hear from them again.
Or, have it so that they have to make at least 10+ posts (without telling them of course, don't need spam posters again) or be online for 3-4 hrs in the first week before their account becomes permanent. That way it doesn't really waste your time weeding them out by hand. A few online games that I've played will have such requirements. You have to play for 2 hrs in the first 48 or your character will be deleted, etc etc.
Or is there anyway to send periodic e-mail alerts notifying them of their delinquent status and telling them that if there isn't any activity their account will be deleted? I know a few online e-mail things do that if you drop off the face of the earth without using the service.
But I do agree, it's getting assinine and needs to be cleaned out.
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