From the minds behind programming Q&A site StackOverflow comes Super User, the smart, simple way to get answers to geeky questions about computer hardware and software.
Last fall, we were impressed by StackOverflow‘s usability, interface, and credibility system. We’re very glad to see the same principles – which are derived from models such as typical Q&A sites, wikis, and Digg – applied to a broader knowledge base that can be used by power users, too. Read on for more info and beta access.
Questions range from open-ended queries about browser preferences to requests for specific hacks for an OS. The site is completely collaborative; even a user’s question can be edited.
One great feature of the site is that answers come in fairly quickly and, generally speaking, most questions have multiple answers within an hour. Questions are searchable and organized by tags, and unanswered questions have their very own tab on the homepage.
Most of the uses for this site don’t require registration, and most of the Q&A processes can be conducted anonymously. However, the site’s interesting system of “reputation” points does require a simple account creation, which can be done using OpenID. According to the site, “Reputation is a (very) rough measurement of how much the Super User community trusts you. Reputation is never given, it is earned.” Points are awarded and subtracted based on other users’ judgement of how correct or useful an answer is. Barnstar-like badges are also awarded for different types of participation in the community and the Q&A process.
Reputation points can also be offered by an asking user as a bounty for correct answers for difficult questions.
Directions to get a sneak peek of the beta are here. Test and enjoy!
