Content moderation is the process of monitoring and applying a pre-determined set of rules and guidelines to user-generated submissions. It is done to determine if the communication is permissible or not.

In simple words, we can say that when a user submits content to a website, it goes through the screening process during which it is made sure that the content abides by or fulfills the website rules and regulations or not. Content moderators check if the content is illegal, inappropriate, or harassing. If so, the content gets rejected and is send for moderation. Otherwise, the content gets published.

Content moderation is a common practice among online platforms which heavily rely on user-generated content, including social media platforms, online marketplaces, dating sites, communities, sharing economy, and forums.

Do’s and Don’ts of Content Moderation

A few Do’s and Don’ts of Content Moderation that content moderation service providers must keep in mind while moderating the content. Let’s discuss the Do’s and Don’ts of Content Moderation.

Do’s of Content Moderation Services

Here are a few do’s of content moderation.

•      Choose the Moderation Method that Most Suits Your Needs

While moderating content, look at what type of content is present on your website and who your users are. That’s how you will create a clear picture of what is required from your moderation method and setup. 

•      Create Clear Rules and Regulations

Ensure your content moderation rules are clear for everyone who directly interacts with your online platform’s content moderation. Make sure you involve everyone, including the data scientist developing your AI moderation and the human moderator who is reviewing the content. Whether someone is sitting in-house or has outsourced the project to the partners, you must make force them to abide by all the rules and regulations set by you.

Being silly or uncertain regarding your rules and regulations can destroy your moderation efforts and may lead to financial issues and a bad user perspective.

•      Moderate All Types of Content

Either you are running an online marketplace, social media platform, or dating site, your users, are the key contributors to your platform. You have to make sure that they enjoy a pleasant experience at your site and find quality content on your website. 

This can be achieved if you make sure that the content moderation task is performed efficiently. The perfect job can only be done if you pay significant importance to moderate all types of content, including images, videos, 1-1 messages, and text. 

However, this approach is not easy for all online platforms because of financial and technical reasons. If this is the case with you, make sure you identify high-risk categories with moderate content in that area.

Don’ts of Content Moderation

Here are a few don’ts of content moderation

•     Do not misinterpret what Good Content is

Quality content is crucial for building trust and achieving user experience on your online platform. However, you must understand what good content is. 

Do not commit the mistake of misinterpreting good content with bad content. Otherwise, you might end up rejecting user-generated content just because it is negative.

For example, if the content gets a negative comment, it can still be good content, provided no harsh language is used. All you need to focus on is genuine content because it enhances the quality and helps in building trust.

•        Don’t Waste Resources.

There are plenty of content moderation tools and services available in the market. You must prioritize your resources carefully. Innovation and growth will boost the performance of your online platform and enhance your chances of success. That’s where your available resources will provide you the most competitive advantage. 

So, instead of using and wasting multiple resources, create your own path and stick to the basics. You will for sure succeed and gain reputation gradually.