Let's Keep in Touch...

Last week, we asked you about official MMO forums and whether they helped or harmed the communities they served. This week, with more news of EVE's Council of Stellar Management, we want to broaden the topic a bit. We want to know:

What's the best way for developers to stay in touch with their communities?

Monitoring official forums, lurking fan forums, electing community representatives...each has their benefits and downsides. Your thoughts?