Hi, I've spent some time thinking through how I would go about implementing a Q&A forum.

I don't think I'd necessarily go the API route. In my company we've implemented Zendesk with a custom URL and theme. It lets us add our unique branding while letting Zendesk handle managing the platform.

You could then leverage Zendesk APIs to bring pieces of the help desk into your application.

I'd be happy to jump on a call with you if you want to explore these ideas more in depth.