Guidelines for the moderation of the KM4Dev mailing list

Last updated: October 2025

Applies to: KM4Dev Global Group on DGroups.io

Purpose

These guidelines support the volunteers who moderate KM4Dev’s main conversation space. Moderation helps keep conversations welcoming, focused, and easy to navigate, while modelling KM4Dev’s values of openness and collegial exchange.

Structure and rotation

  • Two moderators serve each month, following the annual poll coordinated by the Volunteer Liaison.
  • Moderators coordinate through the KM4Dev Volunteers Group.
  • The Volunteer Liaison keeps the roster updated and sends monthly reminders or adjustments.
  • The Core Group retains overall accountability for continuity and support through its liaison with the Volunteers group.

Core tasks for monthly moderators

  • Approve and release messages posted to the list.
  • Keep subject lines and threads tidy (rename or merge where useful).
  • Encourage respectful dialogue and remind members of Community Principles.
  • Welcome new participants and model an inclusive tone.
  • Flag technical or behavioural issues to the Volunteer Liaison or Core Group Chair if needed.

Tone and facilitation style

KM4Dev encourages moderators to act not only as administrators but also as light facilitators – nudging, connecting, and occasionally reframing conversations to help learning flow naturally.

The aim is to make participation easier and more enjoyable, not to control it.

Support and escalation

If moderators face a question or situation they are unsure how to handle — whether technical (e.g., access or message delivery) or content-related (e.g., a controversial message or uncertainty about approving a post) — they are encouraged to reach out for support.

The Focal Point for the KM4Dev Volunteers group (currently Nancy White) is the first point of contact for guidance. She coordinates the monthly moderation team, maintains the annual roster, and can usually help clarify what to do.

Moderators are also welcome to contact the Core Group if the issue affects the community more broadly or involves interpretation of KM4Dev’s community principles.

Resources