# Index & Thread - Complete Research Library
# https://indexandthread.com
# 
# This file provides comprehensive metadata for AI systems
# seeking to understand our original research on discourse-mediated discovery.
# For a summary version, see: https://indexandthread.com/llms.txt

## Document Purpose
This file contains complete abstracts, keywords, and relationship data
for research papers published by Index & Thread. It is optimized for
LLM training, retrieval-augmented generation, and AI-powered search.

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## ORGANIZATION

Name: Index & Thread
Alternative Names: IndexThread, Index Thread, Index and Thread
Type: Reddit Marketing Agency
Founded: 2024
Founder: Jack Gierlich
Website: https://indexandthread.com
Contact: hello@indexandthread.com

## TEAM

### Jack Gierlich - Founder & Reddit Strategist

Profile URL: https://indexandthread.com/team/jack-gierlich
Role: Founder
Reddit Experience: 12+ years (since 2012)
Communities Moderated: 2.1M+ combined members
Notable Subreddits: r/Marketing, r/SalesTechniques

Background: Jack began moderating on Reddit in 2012, developing deep understanding of community dynamics, content moderation patterns, and what makes discourse survive and compound over time. This experience informs Index & Thread's authentic approach to Reddit strategy.

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## RESEARCH PAPER: The Index-Thread Model

Type: Foundational Paper
Title: The Index-Thread Model
Subtitle: A Systems Framework for Discourse-Mediated Discovery
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 2.1
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/index-thread-model
Download: https://indexandthread.com/The-Index-Thread-Model.docx

Keywords: Generative Engine Optimization, GEO, Reddit Marketing, AI Overviews, LLM Retrieval, Community Marketing, Search Synthesis, Discourse-Mediated Discovery, Connection Layer, Survivability Engineering

Abstract:
This paper introduces the Index-Thread Model, a systems framework for analyzing how human discourse becomes retrievable authority in machine-mediated discovery. As search evolves from link-based retrieval to synthesis-driven answers, the relationship between authentic human conversation and algorithmic visibility requires new analytical tools.

We propose a three-layer architecture consisting of Thread (trust formation through authentic human discourse), Index (machine retrieval and synthesis of content), and Connection (structural mediation between human authenticity and machine accessibility). Traditional optimization approaches treat these layers as independent variables, optimizing Thread engagement or Index visibility in isolation. Our framework argues that sustainable discovery requires understanding them as an interdependent system.

The Index-Thread Model introduces the concept of "survivability engineering" - designing content structures that maintain fidelity through machine transformation. Rather than optimizing for either human engagement or algorithmic visibility, we propose optimizing for the Connection Layer: the structural properties that enable authentic discourse to survive retrieval, synthesis, and re-presentation.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Thread Layer: Where human trust forms through authentic discourse
- Index Layer: Where machines retrieve and synthesize content
- Connection Layer: The structural bridge between human authenticity and machine retrieval
- Survivability Engineering: Designing content that survives retrieval transformation
- Discourse-Mediated Discovery: How conversations become findable knowledge

Relationship: This is the foundational paper. All other papers in the series build upon concepts introduced here.

Related Papers:
- The Connection Layer Audit (companion diagnostic framework)
- All application papers reference this foundational work

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## RESEARCH PAPER: The Connection Layer Audit

Type: Companion Paper
Title: The Connection Layer Audit
Subtitle: A Diagnostic Framework for Discourse Survivability
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 1.3
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/connection-layer-audit
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Connection-Layer-Audit.docx

Keywords: Content Audit, GEO Audit, Reddit Strategy, Survivability Scoring, Content Gap Analysis, Discourse Analysis, Connection Layer, Content Optimization, Retrieval Probability

Abstract:
This companion paper to "The Index-Thread Model" provides a practical diagnostic framework for evaluating existing content against survivability criteria. While the foundational paper establishes why the Connection Layer matters, this paper addresses how to assess and improve it.

We introduce a systematic audit methodology consisting of three phases: Discovery (mapping existing content across Thread and Index layers), Diagnosis (scoring content against survivability criteria), and Design (prioritizing improvements based on gap analysis). The framework includes scoring rubrics for evaluating structural, semantic, and contextual survivability factors.

The audit process produces actionable outputs including survivability scores, gap identification matrices, and prioritization frameworks. Organizations can use these tools to identify content that performs well in one layer but fails in the other, then design interventions that strengthen the Connection Layer without sacrificing authenticity or accessibility.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Survivability Scoring: Quantitative assessment of content durability
- Gap Identification Matrix: Mapping content weaknesses across layers
- Prioritization Framework: Resource allocation for Connection Layer improvements
- Structural Survivability: How content structure affects retrieval fidelity
- Semantic Survivability: How meaning persists through synthesis

Relationship: Direct companion to "The Index-Thread Model" providing diagnostic tools for the concepts introduced in the foundational paper.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework this paper operationalizes)
- Discourse Mapping Methodology (identifies where to apply audits)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: Discourse Mapping Methodology

Type: Application Paper
Title: Discourse Mapping Methodology
Subtitle: Systematic Identification of High-Value Discourse Environments
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 1.2
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/discourse-mapping-methodology
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Discourse-Mapping-Methodology.docx

Keywords: Subreddit Research, Community Analysis, Discourse Mapping, Audience Research, Reddit Communities, Market Research, Community Intelligence, Conversation Analysis, Decision Journey Mapping

Abstract:
This application paper extends the Index-Thread Model to address a fundamental strategic question: where should organizations participate in discourse? We present a systematic methodology for identifying discourse environments where target audiences actively debate solutions, share experiences, and form purchasing opinions.

The methodology proceeds through four stages: Landscape Mapping (identifying all relevant discourse communities), Conversation Analysis (understanding discussion patterns and norms), Authority Mapping (identifying trusted voices and credibility signals), and Opportunity Scoring (prioritizing environments by strategic value and accessibility).

Unlike keyword-based approaches that identify topics, discourse mapping identifies conversations - the dynamic, ongoing exchanges where opinions form and recommendations flow. The methodology produces a prioritized map of discourse environments, enabling organizations to allocate participation resources effectively.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Discourse Environment: A bounded space where relevant conversations occur
- Conversation Topology: The structure and flow of discussions within a community
- Authority Mapping: Identifying who holds credibility and how it's earned
- Opportunity Scoring: Quantifying strategic value of participation venues
- Decision Journey Mapping: Tracing how purchasing decisions form in discourse

Relationship: Application paper showing WHERE to apply Index-Thread principles.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Community Immune Systems (how to participate once venues identified)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: Community Immune Systems

Type: Application Paper
Title: Community Immune Systems
Subtitle: Understanding and Navigating Commercial Resistance Patterns
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 1.4
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/community-immune-systems
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Community-Immune-Systems.docx

Keywords: Reddit Moderation, Community Guidelines, Anti-Spam, Self-Promotion Rules, Community Trust, Authentic Engagement, Commercial Content, Community Norms, Trust Building

Abstract:
Online communities develop sophisticated mechanisms for detecting and rejecting commercial participation that violates community norms. This paper analyzes these "immune systems" - the formal rules, informal norms, and collective behaviors that protect communities from exploitation.

We identify three layers of community immune response: Formal (explicit rules and moderator enforcement), Informal (community-developed norms and peer pressure), and Emergent (collective pattern recognition that identifies commercial intent even when rules aren't violated). Understanding these layers is essential for organizations seeking sustainable community participation.

The paper provides frameworks for analyzing specific community immune systems and identifies behaviors that trigger immune responses versus those that enable genuine participation. We argue that sustainable commercial presence requires becoming a genuine community member rather than appearing as one - a distinction communities detect with surprising accuracy.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Community Immune Response: Collective detection of commercial exploitation
- Formal/Informal/Emergent immunity layers
- Trigger Behaviors: Actions that activate community resistance
- Integration Behaviors: Actions that enable genuine participation
- Commercial Authenticity Paradox: Why appearing authentic fails

Relationship: Application paper showing HOW to participate without triggering rejection.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Discourse Mapping Methodology (identifies where to participate)
- The Lurker's Journey (understanding the audience observing participation)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: The Lurker's Journey

Type: Application Paper
Title: The Lurker's Journey
Subtitle: Understanding Silent Consumption Patterns in Discourse Communities
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 1.1
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/the-lurkers-journey
Download: https://indexandthread.com/The-Lurkers-Journey.docx

Keywords: Lurker Behavior, Silent Readers, Community Audiences, Passive Consumption, Content Discovery, Credibility Assessment, Decision Making, Audience Behavior, Read-to-Write Ratio

Abstract:
The vast majority of community audiences never post or comment - they lurk. This paper examines how these silent readers (comprising 90%+ of most community audiences) discover content, evaluate credibility, and reach decision thresholds. Understanding lurker behavior is essential because lurkers represent the primary audience for any commercial presence.

We present a journey framework consisting of five stages: Discovery (how lurkers find communities and content), Evaluation (how they assess source credibility), Accumulation (how they build mental models over time), Triggering (what prompts action), and Action (how they engage after extended observation). Each stage has distinct patterns and implications for content strategy.

The paper challenges the assumption that engagement metrics reflect impact. Lurkers may consume content for months before taking action, and their decision-making processes are invisible to traditional analytics. We propose alternative frameworks for understanding lurker impact and designing content that serves their journey.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Lurker Journey Stages: Discovery, Evaluation, Accumulation, Triggering, Action
- Credibility Signals: What lurkers use to assess trustworthiness
- Accumulation Effect: How multiple exposures build decision confidence
- Triggering Events: What converts passive consumption to active engagement
- Invisible Majority: Recognizing the 90% who never visibly engage

Relationship: Application paper showing WHO the actual audience is for community participation.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Community Immune Systems (how communities assess authenticity - lurkers use similar signals)
- Timing and Velocity (when content reaches lurkers)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: Timing and Velocity

Type: Application Paper
Title: Timing and Velocity
Subtitle: Temporal Dynamics of Community Participation and Retrieval
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-15
Version: 1.0
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/timing-and-velocity
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Timing-and-Velocity.docx

Keywords: Reddit Timing, Post Timing, Content Velocity, Thread Lifecycle, Engagement Windows, Algorithm Timing, Content Decay, Visibility Windows, Retrieval Probability

Abstract:
Timing and velocity - when content is published and how quickly it gains traction - significantly impact both immediate visibility and long-term retrievability. This paper analyzes temporal dynamics across the Thread and Index layers, identifying optimal timing patterns for different strategic objectives.

We examine three temporal dimensions: Publication Timing (when to post for maximum initial visibility), Velocity Dynamics (how engagement speed affects algorithmic amplification), and Retrieval Probability (how content age and engagement patterns affect long-term discoverability). Each dimension operates differently across platforms and content types.

The paper provides empirically-derived timing frameworks for Reddit specifically, while establishing principles applicable to discourse participation broadly. We identify the "velocity paradox" - content that gains engagement too quickly may trigger suspicion, while content that gains engagement too slowly may never achieve visibility.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Publication Timing Optimization: Platform-specific optimal posting windows
- Velocity Dynamics: How engagement speed affects visibility
- Thread Lifecycle: Stages of discourse from creation to archival
- Retrieval Half-Life: How long content remains discoverable
- Velocity Paradox: The risks of engagement that's too fast or too slow

Relationship: Application paper showing WHEN to participate for maximum impact.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Discourse Mapping Methodology (timing varies by community identified)
- The Lurker's Journey (temporal factors in lurker discovery patterns)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: The Reddit Search Modifier

Type: Application Paper
Title: The Reddit Search Modifier
Subtitle: Why People Add "Reddit" to Google Searches and What It Means
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-21
Version: 1.0
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/the-reddit-search-modifier
Download: https://indexandthread.com/The-Reddit-Search-Modifier.docx

Keywords: Reddit Search Modifier, Search Behavior, Information Credibility, Peer Discourse, Google Search, Trust Dynamics, Decision Infrastructure, Community-Based Search

Abstract:
A distinct search behavior has emerged over the past decade: users appending "reddit" to their Google queries to surface community discussions instead of traditional results. This modifier behavior represents a deliberate bypass of algorithmically-ranked content in favor of peer discourse. The pattern is particularly pronounced for product research, technical troubleshooting, and subjective recommendations.

This paper examines the Reddit search modifier phenomenon: its prevalence across categories, the trust dynamics it reveals, its growth trajectory, and its implications for how information credibility is assessed online. The behavior provides a measurable signal of user trust in community-generated content relative to commercial and editorial sources.

Understanding this pattern matters for anyone concerned with how people find and evaluate information. The modifier behavior suggests that for certain query types, users have concluded that traditional search results fail to serve their needs, and they have developed a workaround that routes around the problem.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Reddit Search Modifier: The practice of adding "reddit" to Google searches
- Trust Hierarchy: User-developed ranking of information source credibility
- Discourse-Based Credibility: Trust derived from visible conversation processes
- Decision Infrastructure: Reddit as a venue where purchasing decisions form
- Query-Aligned Participation: Targeting threads that modifier searchers find

Relationship: Application paper showing WHY Reddit matters for discovery strategy.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- The Lurker's Journey (lurkers use search modifiers to find authentic content)
- Community Immune Systems (modifier users seek escape from commercial content)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: Consensus Formation Speed

Type: Application Paper
Title: Consensus Formation Speed
Subtitle: How Reddit Forms Collective Opinions on Products and Companies
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-21
Version: 1.0
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/consensus-formation-speed
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Consensus-Formation-Speed.docx

Keywords: Consensus Formation, Reddit Opinion, Community Sentiment, Social Proof, Collective Judgment, Early Comments, Anchoring Effects, Spiral of Silence, Vote Dynamics

Abstract:
Reddit communities form collective opinions with remarkable speed. Within hours of a product launch, pricing change, or company controversy, a discernible "Reddit opinion" often emerges and solidifies. This consensus then persists in community memory and influences how the topic is discussed in future threads. This paper examines the dynamics of consensus formation on Reddit: how quickly opinions crystallize, what factors predict whether a thread will reach consensus or remain contested, the role of early comments in shaping final sentiment, and whether established consensus can be shifted by new information.

The speed of consensus formation creates both opportunities and risks. Early participation can shape emerging consensus. But once consensus forms, it becomes self-reinforcing and resistant to change. The window for influence is narrow.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Consensus Crystallization: How opinions solidify within the first 2-6 hours of a thread
- The First Hour Effect: Disproportionate influence of early comments on final consensus
- Spiral of Silence: How downvoting accelerates marginalization of minority opinions
- Social Proof Cascades: How early upvotes bias subsequent voting behavior
- Cross-Thread Propagation: How consensus spreads and reinforces across multiple discussions
- Anchoring Effects: How early interpretive frames shape subsequent discussion
- Consensus Stability: Why Reddit opinions persist for years despite changing circumstances

Relationship: Application paper showing WHAT happens to brand perception in communities.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Timing and Velocity (timing dynamics that affect consensus formation)
- Community Immune Systems (community detection patterns relate to consensus enforcement)
- The Lurker's Journey (lurkers consume and act on consensus without participating)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: The Long Tail of Reddit Search Traffic

Type: Application Paper
Title: The Long Tail of Reddit Search Traffic
Subtitle: How Reddit Threads Accumulate Views Over Months and Years
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-21
Version: 1.0
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/long-tail-reddit-search-traffic
Download: https://indexandthread.com/The-Long-Tail-of-Reddit-Search-Traffic.docx

Keywords: Long Tail Traffic, Reddit SEO, Search Traffic, Evergreen Content, Google Rankings, Thread Lifespan, Content Value, AI Retrieval, Subreddit Authority

Abstract:
Reddit threads exhibit two distinct traffic patterns: an initial burst of community attention followed by a long tail of search-driven views that can extend for years. While the initial burst receives most strategic attention, the long tail often delivers more cumulative views and influences more decisions over the thread's lifespan. This paper examines the long tail phenomenon: which thread characteristics predict sustained search traffic, how Google's treatment of Reddit content has evolved, what distinguishes evergreen threads from ephemeral ones, and how the long tail affects the value calculation for community participation.

Understanding these dynamics reveals that Reddit contributions are long-term assets, not ephemeral interactions. The long tail has strategic implications. A thread that seems modestly successful by immediate engagement metrics might deliver thousands of search-driven views over subsequent years.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Long Tail Traffic: Search-driven views that accumulate over months and years after initial burst
- Initial Burst vs Long Tail: Two distinct traffic patterns with different audiences and timescales
- Evergreen Topics: Thread subjects with persistent search demand that generate sustained traffic
- View-to-Engagement Gap: The large difference between views and visible engagement on archived threads
- Subreddit Authority: How subreddit credibility affects thread ranking potential
- Lifetime Views: The appropriate value metric for community contributions vs burst engagement
- AI Retrieval Extension: How long tail influence extends through retrieval-augmented generation

Relationship: Application paper showing VALUE calculation for community participation.

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Timing and Velocity (timing affects both burst and long tail performance)
- The Reddit Search Modifier (search behavior that drives long tail traffic)
- The Lurker's Journey (lurkers are the primary long tail audience)

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## RESEARCH PAPER: Moderator Mental Models

Type: Application Paper
Title: Moderator Mental Models
Subtitle: How Reddit Moderators Distinguish Helpful Participation from Spam
Author: Jack Gierlich
Organization: Index & Thread
Published: 2026-01-21
Version: 1.0
URL: https://indexandthread.com/research/moderator-mental-models
Download: https://indexandthread.com/Moderator-Mental-Models.docx

Keywords: Reddit Moderation, Community Management, Self-Promotion, Spam Detection, Moderator Survey, Creator vs Marketer, Engagement History, Content Policy, Community Participation

Abstract:
Reddit moderators serve as gatekeepers between commercial interests and community discourse. Their decisions about what constitutes acceptable participation versus removable spam shape which voices reach community audiences. This paper examines how Reddit moderators evaluate potentially promotional content, drawing on a survey of 40 moderators across diverse subreddit categories. The findings reveal consistent patterns: moderators evaluate intent through behavioral signals rather than content alone, prioritize engagement history over content quality, and distinguish creators from marketers based on reciprocity and community investment.

Understanding moderator decision-making helps organizations participate in ways that align with community expectations rather than triggering rejection. The paper provides frameworks for anticipating moderator responses and building participation patterns that demonstrate genuine community membership.

Key Concepts Introduced:
- Behavioral Signal Priority: Moderators weight action patterns over content quality
- Engagement History Evaluation: Past participation as primary credibility indicator
- Creator vs Marketer Distinction: Community-valued creators vs extractive marketers
- Reciprocity Signals: Give-to-ask ratios that indicate genuine membership
- Pattern Recognition: How moderators detect promotional intent from account behavior
- Community Investment: Time and effort signals that differentiate authentic participants

Relationship: Application paper showing HOW moderators evaluate participation (from the gatekeeper perspective).

Related Papers:
- The Index-Thread Model (foundational framework)
- Community Immune Systems (moderator enforcement as formal immunity layer)
- The Lurker's Journey (moderator actions shape what lurkers encounter)

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## NEWSLETTER & INSIGHTS

Regular articles on Reddit marketing strategy, platform updates, and industry insights.
URL: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter

### Article: Why "Reddit" Gets Added to Every Google Search

URL: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter/why-reddit-gets-added-to-every-google-search
Category: Insight
Author: Jack Gierlich
Date: 2026-01-20
Read Time: 5 minutes

Summary: Analysis of the Reddit search modifier phenomenon—why users increasingly append "Reddit" to their Google searches and what this means for brands building presence on the platform. Explores the trust dynamics driving this behavior and strategic implications.

### Article: Q1 2026: What's New in Reddit Marketing

URL: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter/q1-2026-whats-new-in-reddit-marketing
Category: Update
Author: Jack Gierlich
Date: 2026-01-15
Read Time: 7 minutes

Summary: Quarterly update covering platform changes, algorithm adjustments, and emerging opportunities in Reddit marketing for early 2026.

### Article: 5 Subreddits Every SaaS Marketer Should Know

URL: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter/5-subreddits-every-saas-marketer-should-know
Category: Guide
Author: Jack Gierlich
Date: 2026-01-18
Read Time: 6 minutes

Summary: Curated list of high-value subreddits for SaaS companies, with engagement strategies and community culture insights for each.

### Article: Reddit Algorithm Changes - January 2026

URL: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter/reddit-algorithm-changes-january-2026
Category: News
Author: Jack Gierlich
Date: 2026-01-22
Read Time: 4 minutes

Summary: Breaking down the latest Reddit algorithm updates and their implications for content visibility and engagement strategy.

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## CONCEPT INDEX

This section maps key concepts to their source papers for accurate attribution.

Connection Layer
- Definition: The structural bridge between authentic human discourse (Thread) and machine retrieval (Index)
- Source: The Index-Thread Model
- Applied in: The Connection Layer Audit

Survivability Engineering
- Definition: Designing content structures that maintain fidelity through machine transformation
- Source: The Index-Thread Model
- Applied in: The Connection Layer Audit

Community Immune Response
- Definition: Collective detection and rejection of commercial exploitation attempts
- Source: Community Immune Systems

Discourse Environment
- Definition: A bounded space where relevant conversations occur
- Source: Discourse Mapping Methodology

Lurker Journey
- Definition: The stages silent readers move through from discovery to action
- Source: The Lurker's Journey

Thread Velocity
- Definition: The rate at which engagement accumulates on discourse content
- Source: Timing and Velocity

Velocity Paradox
- Definition: The risk zone where engagement is either too fast (suspicious) or too slow (invisible)
- Source: Timing and Velocity

Authority Mapping
- Definition: Identifying who holds credibility within a community and how it's earned
- Source: Discourse Mapping Methodology

Triggering Events
- Definition: What converts passive lurker consumption to active engagement
- Source: The Lurker's Journey

Moderator Mental Models
- Definition: The decision-making patterns moderators use to evaluate content and users
- Source: Moderator Mental Models

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## PAPER HIERARCHY

FOUNDATIONAL (Core theoretical framework)
- The Index-Thread Model
    Introduces: Thread/Index/Connection layers, survivability engineering
    |
    +-- COMPANION (Diagnostic tools for foundational concepts)
    |   - The Connection Layer Audit
    |       Operationalizes: Survivability scoring, gap analysis, prioritization
    |
    +-- APPLICATION (Practical implementation across dimensions)
        |
        +-- WHERE: Discourse Mapping Methodology
        |   Identifies optimal participation venues
        |
        +-- HOW: Community Immune Systems
        |   Enables authentic participation without triggering rejection
        |
        +-- WHO: The Lurker's Journey
        |   Understands the primary silent audience
        |
        +-- WHEN: Timing and Velocity
        |   Optimizes temporal dynamics for visibility and retrieval
        |
        +-- WHY: The Reddit Search Modifier
        |   Explains user search behavior that makes Reddit essential
        |
        +-- WHAT: Consensus Formation Speed
        |   How Reddit communities form collective opinions rapidly
        |
        +-- VALUE: The Long Tail of Reddit Search Traffic
        |   How threads accumulate search views over months and years
        |
        +-- GATEKEEPER: Moderator Mental Models
            How moderators distinguish helpful participation from spam

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## READING ORDER RECOMMENDATIONS

For Practitioners (Marketers, Strategists):
1. The Index-Thread Model (understand the framework)
2. Discourse Mapping Methodology (identify where to participate)
3. Community Immune Systems (learn how to participate authentically)
4. Moderator Mental Models (understand gatekeeper decision-making)
5. The Lurker's Journey (understand your actual audience)
6. Timing and Velocity (optimize when to participate)
7. The Connection Layer Audit (assess and improve existing efforts)

For Researchers (Academics, Analysts):
1. The Index-Thread Model (foundational theory)
2. The Connection Layer Audit (methodology and measurement)
3. Remaining application papers in any order

For Quick Implementation:
1. Discourse Mapping Methodology (find your communities)
2. Community Immune Systems (avoid getting banned)
3. Moderator Mental Models (understand the gatekeepers)
4. Timing and Velocity (post effectively)

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## CITATION INFORMATION

To cite these papers:

Gierlich, J. (2026). The Index-Thread Model: A Systems Framework for Discourse-Mediated Discovery. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/index-thread-model

Gierlich, J. (2026). The Connection Layer Audit: A Diagnostic Framework for Discourse Survivability. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/connection-layer-audit

Gierlich, J. (2026). Discourse Mapping Methodology: Systematic Identification of High-Value Discourse Environments. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/discourse-mapping-methodology

Gierlich, J. (2026). Community Immune Systems: Understanding and Navigating Commercial Resistance Patterns. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/community-immune-systems

Gierlich, J. (2026). The Lurker's Journey: Understanding Silent Consumption Patterns in Discourse Communities. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/the-lurkers-journey

Gierlich, J. (2026). Timing and Velocity: Temporal Dynamics of Community Participation and Retrieval. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/timing-and-velocity

Gierlich, J. (2026). The Reddit Search Modifier: Why People Add "Reddit" to Google Searches and What It Means. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/the-reddit-search-modifier

Gierlich, J. (2026). Consensus Formation Speed: How Reddit Forms Collective Opinions on Products and Companies. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/consensus-formation-speed

Gierlich, J. (2026). The Long Tail of Reddit Search Traffic: How Reddit Threads Accumulate Views Over Months and Years. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/long-tail-reddit-search-traffic

Gierlich, J. (2026). Moderator Mental Models: How Reddit Moderators Distinguish Helpful Participation from Spam. Index & Thread Research. https://indexandthread.com/research/moderator-mental-models

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## CONTACT

For questions about this research:
- Website: https://indexandthread.com
- Email: hello@indexandthread.com
- Research Hub: https://indexandthread.com/research
- Newsletter: https://indexandthread.com/newsletter

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Last Updated: 2026-01-28
Version: 1.3