Structure and Functionality for Public and Private Forums

[c.k. lester]

Let's imagine I'm setting up a forum for reading groups, a site that allows its members to create groups. I have my own login system (via Laravel's Auth system), so I'll need NodeBB to recognize that (which I think is possible via an SSO plugin).

Members of the site will be able to create their own groups, which I'll want to then use an API to create the group forum in NodeBB.

I'll want to have some public forums, as well as provide for the private forums of the member groups. The structure might look like this:

• Books (public)
  +- Fiction (public)
  +- Non-fiction (public)
• Support (public)
• My Groups (private to the logged-in user)
  +- Grandma's Book Club (private to the logged-in user)
  +- Weekend Warriors Book Club (private to the logged-in user)

Is this sort of structure and functionality possible with NodeBB?

[rod]

I have implemented a similar configuration by using groups. Creating categories that only have privileges for groups and adding users to those groups.

It is not a perfectly streamlined process as people have to request to be added to specific groups but it does work.

[c.k. lester]

@rod Yeah, the request is appropriate. In fact, people will be invited to groups. There won't be a lot of requesting to join at first...

I figure this is the functionality I want:

1. When a user signs up on my site, create the forum (NodeBB) account. (Is that necessary?) This will give the user on-site messaging with other users.
2. When the user creates a group on my site, create the associated group forum. Set user as owner/admin.
3. Allow other users to join that group by invitation from the owner.
4. When a user closes his account, close the forum group and archive all material.
5. When a user leaves a group on my site, disconnect them from the associated forum as well.

I'm wondering if Muut would be better for this kind of functionality...

Any and all opinions requested and appreciated!