Community layer
Discord is not the brand. It is the retention room.
The site should create the standards and context first. Community becomes stronger when it extends that clarity instead of replacing it.
Site creates context
Visitors should understand the philosophy, learn the framework, and see the standards before they ever enter Discord.
Invite creates intent
The access request keeps the first step measurable and lets the team control how people arrive instead of dropping raw invite links everywhere.
Community deepens retention
Discord should extend the site with discussion, accountability, and shared prep. It should not replace the site as the source of truth.
Phase 1 moderation
The current launch path is intentionally simple: request the invite, receive the onboarding email, enter Discord, then let moderators verify and assign access from there.
Site explains the standards
Invite is delivered through the site flow
Manual moderation protects quality while automation is still maturing