Quantitative analysis of discussion forum

This article merges two viewpoints concerning the quantitative analysis of discussion forums. First, we present recent results on forums studies, implying large groups with a high activity level. We propose indicators based on the data produced by user's activity that allow to identify and to qualify the usage of the forum in such groups. In this context, even if statistically representative, these indicators stay somehow impersonal. In the second viewpoint we apply similar methodologies to smaller and closed groups where each member is explicitly engaged and clearly identified. We focus on the social networks analysis. We discuss its transposition in an environment of remote communication. Beyond the convergence of the two presented approaches, we show that they can be used in a positive way in order to explore other contexts using collaborative environments.