Discourse is a modern, open-source platform designed for building online communities, forums, and discussion spaces. It provides a flat, real-time conversation model without arbitrary page breaks, supporting continuous scrolling and dynamic loading of replies. Discourse is available as a fully managed SaaS or can be self-hosted, giving organizations full control over their data and customization. The platform is built for high-resolution touch devices and offers a responsive design for desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Discourse supports rich text editing, markdown, and HTML, with features like live previews, drag-and-drop uploads, and automatic link expansion. It includes advanced moderation tools, a trust-level system, group management, personal messaging, and extensive plugin and API support for custom integrations. Discourse is fully open source, ensuring transparency and data portability, and is trusted by thousands of communities worldwide.

Key Features

Flat, Real-Time Conversation Model Continuous, scrollable discussions without page breaks.

• Just-in-time loading for seamless reading
• Expand context above and below posts for full conversation view

Rich Text Editor and Media Support Flexible content creation and sharing.

• Supports plain text, markdown, HTML, and live preview
• Drag-and-drop image/file uploads and automatic link previews

Responsive Design and Mobile Apps Accessible on any device.

• Optimized for desktops, tablets, and smartphones
• Native iOS and Android apps available

Advanced Moderation and Trust System Tools for healthy community management.

• Flagging, suspensions, and user trust levels
• Automatic privileges for active, positive members

Group and Personal Messaging Facilitates collaboration and private communication.

• Custom groups for access control and mentions
• Personal inbox for direct messages

Extensive Customization and Integration Adaptable to any community’s needs.

• Theming, plugins, and flexible API
• Social media authentication and sharing

Analytics and Data Ownership Insightful and transparent.

• Flexible analytics for member activity and engagement
• Full data ownership and portability

Benefits

Community Ownership and Control Retain full control over your forum and data.

• Open source codebase, no vendor lock-in
• Portable data, no hidden fees or advertising

Engaging User Experience Keeps members active and informed.

• Real-time updates and notifications
• Clean, intuitive interface for all devices

Scalable and Flexible Grows with your community.

• Supports small groups to large enterprises
• Modular architecture and plugin ecosystem

Healthy, Civilized Discussions Promotes positive participation.

• Trust system rewards constructive behavior
• Advanced moderation tools maintain quality