Occasionally users feel a need or strong desire to change their usernames.
Some have asked us to do it for them and we generally will make the change for them (though it often takes a while).
A decent number of other users have simply stopped using an old account and created a new one. It is recommended NOT to do this whenever possible, especially as your forum profile gets further tied to other non-forum functionality (like VAPS, etc. etc.).
I'm inclined to publish all before/after name changes, regardless of whether we make the username change or if a user creates a new account. Standard practice for this is still pending.
The bottom line is that we want to officially state that we will in general process non-controversial username requests, especially when a user is willing to be patient.
It takes some effort to change a username, so if you don't have a reason to change it, please don't ask.
If you do wish a username changed, do two things (1). Post in this thread saying you would like a username change (but don't post what you would like it changed too for a variety of reasons including you wouldn't want someone else to register the username and block you), and (2) Send me a private message repeating the request and this time including what you would like your new username to be. You won't receive a response to the private message or other contact until I'm ready to make the change.
It is my plan to let process these change requests once every 2 to 4 months. So unless it is an emergency for some reason, please be patient.
First in line I think is 'dlp' who has recently inquired about a username change.