A new commenting tool has been introduced to the Island Echo website today (Wednesday), replacing the previous Facebook-led system.
In the past, readers have expressed their disappointment that they have been unable to comment on engaging stories on the Island Echo website without being logged in to Facebook. However, that has now all changed.
Additional features such as voting positively or negatively for a comment have been introduced, as well as a tougher moderation approach. All comments will now be moderated prior to going live on the website and comments can be switched off altogether for legally sensitive stories.
Darren Toogood, Editor and Publisher of Island Echo has said:
“The decision was taken earlier this year to alter the way in which commenting works on Island Echo and as a result the new commenting tool went live for the first time this morning. This was in response to readers’ feedback but also as part of the professional development of the business from a legal standpoint.
“It seems the switch came just in time as Facebook is down for many users worldwide tonight, which would have in the past rendered commenting on this website impossible”.
If you wish to still use your Facebook profile to comment you can. Simply hit the ‘connect with Facebook’ button in the top right hand corner of the comments box. The comment tool can still be found in its usual location just underneath each article.
Commenting is now open for all new stories published since this morning and for all future articles. Unfortunately, comment is not available on previously published stories and all previous comments have been lost.
Brilliant idea better for the non Facebook user
Ironic time to start this without having to log in to Facebook, especially now that it’s gone down along with Instagram & WhatsApp
Seriously though damn good idea
About time! This is my first comment as I don’t have facebook.