I am curious about what the decision makers use now. Apparently you have been tasked with selecting and implementing a forum system. Perhaps they should trust their initial decision to trust you in the first place.
Sometimes folks, especially decisionmakers, need to comment or challenge implementation of a given system. I think it helps them feel like their opinion matters.
I know, I did not provide technical help with your request. Sorry.
Whew, end of rant. Seems I flashed back to working days dealing with organizational nonsense. Yikes