I wanted to make a small blog on how I think a successful community rules itself.

First thing I want to address: Removing people. This includes banning and kicking (if this is in a chat room). Never remove anybody from the equation if they're bothering you. Make sure you do not remove them unless they bother everybody. Always survey other people so you know whether it's just you in a bad mood or that person really is an issue.

Second thing: Decision making. Always make decisions with the whole community, including regular members. The members are the ones who visit your community, so it can safely be assumed that they know best. Again, this has to do with surveying others. If you're going to change something drastically, make sure almost everyone can agree on it, otherwise you're going to lose more people than you are going to get new. The more people you keep, the more automatic advertising by your users happens. This is the best type of advertising. And yes, it is always possible to get more members on a decision that others do not agree on, but this requires more work and might not pay off. A community is best when it is together.

And finally: Make sure you keep topics clear. Language can be ambiguous or maybe sometimes others are unaware where the cutoffs occur. Keep your communications straight. Do not assert anything, simply suggest it nicely. That way, you're not forcing someone to change their conversation, but encouraging it.

I hope that helps someone. It was something in the back of my mind. Thanks!