Understand QCLF Topic Types and the One-Topic URL Model
QCLF supports four Topic types—Traditional Discussion, Live Chat, Watch Party, and Live Broadcast—but each is still one durable Topic record with one normal Topic URL.
Live features add a session/lifecycle layer to that Topic; they do not create a separate disposable community object that must be replaced after the event.
The Four Topic Types
| Type | Model |
|---|---|
| Traditional Discussion | Permanent forum Topic with chronological Messages; Basic+. |
| Live Chat | Durable Topic plus live chat session; Basic+. |
| Watch Party | Durable Topic plus YouTube media/live chat; Max/All Access. |
| Live Broadcast | Durable Topic plus one-Host managed live media/live chat; Pro/Max/All Access. |
One Durable Topic Before, During, and After Live Activity
Creation inserts the Topic first with a stable ID/category/title/body and type-specific live state. Live types then create the matching live session. Users continue opening the same Topic ID while it is scheduled, live, ending, archiving, or archived.
When a live conversation is archived, eligible live Messages become permanent forum Messages attached to that same Topic. The Topic does not need a new URL.
Traditional vs Live Reply Behavior
Traditional Discussion can accept permanent replies immediately when permission allows. Live Topic types use their live-message path while active; after archive they expose permanent reply history/composer according to the archived state and Category permissions.
Why the Model Matters
- Following and notifications stay attached to the durable Topic identity.
- Moderation, views, metadata, and search history remain connected to one conversation object.
- Links shared before a live event continue to point to the same Topic afterward.
- Live archive conversion can preserve the chat without notification flooding or duplicate archive rows.
Community Discussion
Want to compare forum workflows, share practical QCLF tips, or discuss how other Joomla site owners use this feature? Visit the QC Live Forum Community. For private support, bug reports, account-specific entitlement problems, or feature requests, use the QuantaCade support system.