BB code is a pain in the ass!!
I think it would be a good idea to modify the ribbon which is on top of the post you are typing. All you've gotta do is highlight the text with the
mouse, and click the relevant buttons for formatting your message like in MS Word. Now one's gotta
enter the text in a box. Why not
directly?
A font color button could also be added. Colorful personalities like me

would love to add some colour to posts - without hassles!

which means
just highlight the text, click the color you want, and hey presto!
Gmail has it. So why not ATS?
Cheers!