While most of this thread is hung up on how a forced search is not a good idea, I applaud Prad for suggesting ways to improve PM.

I think Castaway's suggestion:

Having said that, I have wanted to have some sort of introductory text at the top of Seekers of Perl Wisdom incouraging people to search first for a while. Larger, flashier hints are needed than the small text under/near the textarea for posting IMO...

is definitely on the right track. Stretching the idea a bit further, perhaps the Monestary gates themselves need an update. Rather than displaying the most recent posts, should it instead maybe ask the user what they are searching for?

Welcome to the Monestary. The Monestary has many things to offer; our greatest treasures are those that choose to give back to the Monestary. What is it you are seeking?

• How do I :[text entry box]
• My code is broken
• I have this homework assignment...

The first would be a way to submit a super search, the 2nd would be a link to a page explaining how to properly fill out a question form with the use of code tags and a form for doing so. The third would be a link to a page explaining that we won't do the homework for them, but will offer assistance to those who show they've done some work on their own but are stuck on something specific. Obviously there could be several more items in the list.

Anyway, I'm throwing this out, hoping it has some rubber content such that it is able to bounce around and become an even better idea.

-Scott