Paging someone on the forum using @<username>

[Swamp Thing]

I recall seeing forum posts containing something like "Paging @someone" when the person posting thinks "Someone" might be able to clear up a question. (Unfortunately I can't find an example right now). How does this work? Does "@someone" automatically trigger a notification? Or is it merely metaphorical -- a remark to tell other readers that "someone" might know the answer?

 

[weirdoguy]

@Swamp Thing did you get a special notification?

 

[Rive]

How does this work? Does "@someone" automatically trigger a notification?

You get a notification about being mentioned, @Swamp Thing
Also, when you add the '@' character and start writing a name you get a possible names you can choose from.

 

[Swamp Thing]

Yes, I got the notifications. Thanks.

 

[Ibix]

Note that a user can turn off "receive notfications when someone mentions you" in Preferences, so it's not guaranteed that they will be aware you've pinged them.