Google+ and other techie things

With news that Google is dropping Google Friends Connect, that will mean some changes at GITS. I’ve been using GFC as a way for people to join the site and manage comments. Also along with site traffic, it helps me to monitor how what I do connects with what you want and need as writers. When people sign up on GFC (currently 1,888 members), that suggests I’m on the right track.

But I guess that’s all going away.

Rather than cry over spilled virtual milk, I’d like to see if we can make things even better around here, so I’m soliciting your suggestions:

* How to manage comments: I strive to make this site a positive experience and I’ve never liked flame wars at all, so in order to comment, users have to register (i.e., no anonymous comments). Are there alternative ways to handle this any of you know about?

* Tracking followers: Are there other ways people can ‘join’ or follow the site? Are there other ‘like’ widgets I should be using?

* Google+: But the main thing is Google+. I only have so much time in my day and although I’ve been tempted to explore this world, I haven’t as yet. Since it appears one of the reasons Google is dropping GFC is to focus on growing Google+, there must be some synergy between the two. So some questions:

— Do any of you use Google+?

— What do you use it for?

— Can you think of ways it would be beneficial for the GITS community?

— What are some good online resources to help me get up to speed on the Google+ front?

— Finally how can Google+ help a writer?

Thanks for your feedback.

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