Alot of my users use threads as their private little chat area, and these usually contain a lot of oneliners like Hi, how do you do, etc. While this is simply spam to many users, it serves as a valuable community building tool, as many close associations have formed this way. IMs, IRC, etc are good substitutes, but doesn't really work when your members come from all over the world.

I'd like to see users have the ability to request from a mod the creation of a private thread. This thread will only be viewable by the thread starter and the forum members he/she specifies. The threads will be stored in a forum kept hidden from general view to save forum space, but users will be able to access their private threads via the User CP (in a buddy list type box). Upon creation of the private thread, all users involved are automatically PMed with the link.

Another use would be for users to discuss highly sensitive issues with admins and mods. e.g., to discuss vbulletin security issues. the user can post knowing that no other user would see and exploit the issue, yet all mods (or relevant usergroup) can instantly access and contribute to the thread.

I'm guess this will be a big hack, so any takers? :)

Just thought of something else. If your forum uses a store based system, this is also a great feature for paying users. 'Rent-a-
thread'.