* We're finally back with another blog! Sorry for the delay, but we think you'll all like this one. *

Afterreceivinga large amount of publicity on first blog post, we decided to make another, further elaborating our points. These points, along with the things in our first post, are good to keep in mind when setting up and managing your server. Without further ado, here they are!

First post:www.planetminecraft.com/blog/how-to-professionally-run-a-large-minecraft-server-redo/

NOTE: These points are geared towards larger servers that aim to create revenue, but many can be adapted to fit in the for-fun small server environment.

1) Create an attractive website that is both informational and functional.
Your server's website is extremely important, especially if you utilize a whitelist. People will visit it to participate in the forums, check your documentation, and donate. It may be worth your while to explore custom webpage development, as a way to differentiate yourself from other servers.

2) Take time to make a smart and beautiful spawning place.
Your spawn is what gives people their first impression of your server. While we should all try not to judge a book by its cover, most players do. So, you want to have an original and thought-out spawn. Also, don't blast people with loads of signs or chat spam right when they join, the less you have, the more likely people will read it.

3) Focus on user retention and be kind to new players.
This point ties in a lot with #2. The spawn is a big part of whether or not users stay and want to come back, but there are other pieces. For example, They want to have enough basic permissions, and be greater by the community. There are numerous other variables, but it's mainly about thinking through what a first joining player with experience.

4) Keep backups of your worlds and other fileso ¦ you'll regret it if you don't!
We all know that things can go horribly wrong very easily when dealing with Minecraft servers. Plugins conflict, worlds corrupt, consoles spamo ¦ and sometimes there is only one solution: backtrack. You don't want to be left in the dust and have to start over when something bad happens, so be prepared!

5) Be careful with how much power is given at to low ranks and people you do not know.
Power. Power in the wrong hands on your server can lead to some very bad things happening. So, be careful with what all of your users can do. Don't let problems sit, like a ticking bomb, but instead watch for and fix them. Also, avoid giving .* or '*' (permissions) unless you are entirely sure of the consequences.

6) Have clear rules and punishments that are simple enough for all of your staff and players to follow.
Some servers try to go the easy way out, sometimes just stating "use common sense". Unfortunately, "common sense" is not quite what it used to be, and often players need a more clean cut "break this rule = punishment". This discourages breaking the rule, and gives you somewhere to point when they say "I didn't know I couldn't (o ¦)".

7) Social Media and Youtube are essential to obtaining the user base needed to keep your server alive.
Especially for larger servers, social media and Youtube are very important. Social Media is a great way to send out updates and receive feedback. Youtube, on the other hand, is good for showcasing your server. Both of these mediums attract new users very well. And if someone new joins who just saw a build that you posted a cinematic for, they'll be more likely to stay.

8) Have good and understandable documentation on and off the server.
For on server documentation, we recommend MCDocs, a Bukkit plugin. If you instal and configure this, you'll never need to answer usual questions again. You can just tell the user who asks to type the command. For off server documentation, wikis are best, but forums work as well. These things will help users to better understand your server and everything it has to offer.

9) Create a TOS.
A TOS (Terms of Service) describes what you do for the user and what different things they can do effect their ability to use your service. It's a simple thing to do that will save you a lot of trouble if you're ever brought in to a legal battle. Yes, it does happen.

10) Check out our other blogs on plugin and permissions management.
How to professionally set up server plugins.
How to professionally set up server ranks and permissions.

We hope you enjoyed this blog! Let us know if you have any questions or suggestions.
- The HammerCraft Team