Personally for me the approach of email groups (i.e. EnergyPlus_Support@yahoogroups.com) still more comfortable. It is not very ergonomic to open a browser each time you need post a question, or check responses. But from other side it is evident, that web based forum form much more functional. Especially these Karma and Badges stuff:), as well as extra information with hacked moves advertisement, which was just as epidemic a couple of days ago.
if, at least, this forum would have a function to post questions via email, the comfort would increase as I think.
Because it hasn't been monetized yet! :)
Just like Google Mail. This is a ploy to get us to use the website. :)
It's all about targeted advertising! I bet IBPSA-USA and Big Ladder Software are getting all sorts of click-throughs! :)