I like the forum's people and content, I have received a lot of help here.
I agree, it could be better.
this site
https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4567465?page=2#forum-post-65039986you reply to specific people, or the OP
you reply (only what you write)
or
reply with quote (starts with prior posters text). leave it all, or leave only what you want, delete the rest
Post Photos; links, links to other conversations.
Private messages: post links. telephone numbers, email addresses, meet each other is easy with no hindrance.
others reply to you, or others or the OP, it always shows who you/they are replying to.
option: send private message.
New/Past Messages: there: click your profile, a drop down menu has 'messages'. Here, I find it a nightmare to change pages to even find the place to view past messages.