Add a forum;
Set permissions like: allow seeing threads of others.
Set permissions like: don't allow replying to threads of others.
Very easy, doesn't need anything else.
Maybe allow editing. You can also use an addon like "extra permissions to thread starter," allowing people to answer but with moderation and deletion options for the thread starter. Finally, you could add some template changes to show posts of others more like comments or in another color.
I have learned that a forum is more successful the simpler it is; many people don't even realize that there are different sections. I have found new ways to offer blogs, galleries, and other features directly within the forum without using additional databases. This makes us independent from third parties and provides users with a familiar environment, as most users don't have the mental capacity to distinguish between various sections. That's why I have removed almost everything I once set up with love and effort in terms of additional sections, addons, and databases.
