• What is the future of online forums?

    Richard M

    Member

    Updated: Jun 1, 2025
    Views: 23

    As a marketer who is looking to setup a community forum; I wonder what is the future of online forums.

    Internet forums have long been the backbone of the open web. They provided a safe place for people to have deep, asynchronous conversations about topics of common interest.

    However, with AI Mode, AI overviews and answer-focused interfaces, the search engines are evolving fast. Google now answers queries directly on the SERP. Less traffic is flowing to original sources. Content discoverability is shifting from creators to algorithms.

    So, what happens to the forums? Do they fade away as AI becomes to middleman for everything, or do they evolve into something stronger? Maybe forums will evolve as authentic places for humans to interact and avoid the AI-chatter?

    What do you think is the future of forums?

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  • Kaustubh Katdare

    Founder7h

    Online forums are spaces where authentic human interaction happens. The future of online forums is in close-knit communities that go beyond discussions.

    Forums that only serve as message boards may struggle in an AI-first web. As search engines deliver answers directly, discoverability for traditional threads will decline.

    But what AI can’t replace is belonging. People join forums not just for answers; but to be seen, heard, and valued by others who share their interests.

    That’s why I see forums evolving into community ecosystems. Places that combine discussions with articles, events, Q&As, feedback, and member-led initiatives.

    Platforms like Jatra are already enabling this shift...supporting multiple content types, native SEO, and organic engagement. It's not just about threads anymore. It's about building spaces where trust and relationships grow over time.

    I'd recommend reading this important article that addresses this question: Are forums dead?. Do give it a read and let me know if it answers your query.

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