I would say these are my suggestions from an outside perspective.
1. Keep it simple, main topics should be listed in simplistic terms then sub categories off each, this forum is very big and there are many different forums which is good to know, I think the trick is to try to index and condense subjects coherently, so anything to do with SEO whether it be Google pr, directories anything that comes primarily under that title should be under one roof... then programming, with things like beginners, php etc etc under another.
2. Don't keep areas secret, let people follow the threads in entirety... let them read the whole story so that they become enticed and come back to see a response on a subject, eventually they may register and reply.
3. Unfortunately forums at the top of google are going to do it for me as they are not specifically important enough at first glance to search through pages of the same thing so the ones at the top I will assume are the best (sorry if that sounds simplistic)
4. Encourage a general discussion area like in here, it allows people to take a break from what they are doing elsewhere on the forum or even elsewhere on the net.
5. Maybe have a header image that is changed daily or weekly or monthly relating to the forum... it gives a forum identity and gives the impression its fresh instead of the same old text all the time.
6. The truth is that many people tend to register somewhere but will hardly ever post, it's a scary thing to some people, others will read but never consider posting a comment on a forum.
7. This forums strength IMO and one that should be pushed is how helpful every one is. Push this fact with SEO, free advice for beginners, then once they are hooked and learn the tricks of the trade they may feel obliged to return the favour, stay and help others.
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