I've noticed that forums I frequent that have high signal-to-noise ratios fall into two camps (with some overlap): 1. Niche topic. For example, I frequent foru

I've noticed that forums I frequent that have high signal-to-noise ratios fall into two camps (with some overlap): 1. Niche topic. For example, I frequent forums about Go and salsa dancing that have next to zero noise. The trick I think is keeping the focus narrow: the programming reddit has worked rather well, technology-in-general forums have become cess pools. 2. Strictly moderated. It seems the only way to maintain a non-niche forum is to aggressively counteract unthinking contributions ("me too" posts, Internet memes) and trolls. Having a sanctioned area to vent and flame in, to keep the main area focused on serious (or at least on-topic) discussion may also help. The Ars Technica forums and The Straight Dope Message Board come to mind. The dynamic on social news sites is a bit different than a traditional forum, however. Different tactics may be required to keep things in check.