I wonder if there were a way we could "like" a posters response to say that it was helpful.  Then people wouldnt have to say "I cant add much more than so and so".  I know its a lot of work, but maybe something to think about?  I worry though, that it would be a contest to see who can get the most "likes" but it would also help the GP when searching on Google and come across this site as to posts that have several likes are great information and the ones with thumbs down are not.  Because sometimes looking at threads there is a variety of information that could be confusing to the GP. 

Just an idea.  I know I know, its work and money, etc.  Just something to ponder. 

I have seen a forum with a ticky box for 'This post was helpful' or words to that effect

"like" :)

Which post did that "like" apply to, Sam? ;-)

Yes I agree a good idea if it's possible.  Amazon has it for reviews - "Was this review helpful to you?"

They, and other sites, also make it possible to see who is replying to whom...

> 'This post was helpful' or words to that effect

I think this is a much more sensible option than {like} the problem with like is that its open to toadyism ;OD we've seen the avid star collectors posting on every thread possible to boost their stars, and {like} could also be very devicive when attributed to someone's 'opinion' during a bun fight.
  

> and {like} could also be very devicive when attributed to someone's 'opinion' during a bun fight.
>

That is what I worry about with this suggestion.  Tiffs happen on this forum and I would hate to see someone use the like button for agreeing with sides.  I agree that the idea of a "This post was helpful" is a better wording than a simple like. 

Another forum i am on has a "thanks" button.

I think Money saving expert forums has this, you can 'thank' a poster for their post and it shows up at the bottom of the thread or after a post, how many and which users found the post helpful.

I dont think it gets the thanker any bonus or benefit, so I don't see that it would be open to abuse.

> "This post was helpful"

This function would be useful for the so called 'Post and leave' posters, those who ask for info but have little to say once they've found out what they want.

It could stand in place of a thank you  to those who often post great ( and sometimes lengthy ) answers.

Yes.... a thanks would be better but at least it would help make the responder feel less like they are whistling in the wind :-)

> we've seen the avid star collectors posting on every thread possible to boost their stars

OMG
I am now worried about giving replies!  :-(

> I am now worried about giving replies

What!?... lol oh no you're an old biddy of the Forum now! you joined the same year as me didn't you (2005?) You can't be accused of being a 'Star chaser' :-D
   I was referring to those people that join and then post on every and any thread in a spam like fashion and garner as many stars in 3 months as it took us in as many years!!! ;-)