I think we could better organize the info for newbies, FAQs, how to get started, technical issues, and updates, etc. (stuff people really need). Honestly, if the updates material (including tips from I3 folks) were easier to find rather than woven throughout these threads, there would be much less reason for most people to navigate through all these discussions.
Keep the forum, but ensure that everything in those key categories gets posted in a place that is simple for average users to find. And which doesn't take them hours a day just to slog through with knee-high boots.