So far we’ve determined that the categories page may not lead to actual interaction, so we’re attempting using Discourse’s default page, the Latest page. Another item we’re contemplating is the Top page (but that will require a future upgrade).
Time will tell. We’re trying this change for 2 weeks and depending on results, we may leave it, or we may return it to the category landing page.
Most USG departments lock down most of the user ability to change things, including the downloading and installation of plugins. Security issue. (shrug) It is what it is.