Discourse is an open-source Internet forum and mailing list management software application designed to power community discussion platforms. It provides a modern and user-friendly interface that enhances engagement and collaboration among users. Discourse aims to revolutionize online discussion by prioritizing civil communication, user-friendly design, and robust moderation features. It is widely used by organizations, businesses, and communities to facilitate meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing.
Discourse falls under the category of Forum software, which is a platform that allows users to engage in discussions, share ideas, ask questions, and connect with others online. Forums serve as virtual meeting places where individuals with common interests can interact and exchange information on various topics. Discourse offers a versatile solution for creating vibrant online communities, supporting threaded discussions, private messaging, and user-generated content management.
Founded in 2013 by Jeff Atwood, Robin Ward, and Sam Saffron, Discourse was created with the vision of improving online communication and fostering positive interactions among users. The founders recognized the need for a modern forum platform that prioritizes user experience and community moderation. Since its inception, Discourse has gained popularity for its innovative approach to online discussions and has attracted a diverse user base across different industries.
Currently, Discourse holds a significant market share within the Forum software category, competing with established platforms like vBulletin and phpBB. With its focus on user engagement, scalability, and community building features, Discourse is poised for continued growth in the future. As more organizations recognize the importance of building thriving online communities, the demand for intuitive forum software like Discourse is expected to increase, leading to potential market expansion and adoption.
