Thread pruned. Keep it on topic or don't post. Refresh yourself with the rules if you're not sure of what is appropriate and what isn't. Particularly the very first item.
I pushed for a more comprehensive tagging system however I believe we were stopped by the limitations of ip.board. The backend is not my thing, though.
Depending on the person, probably not even that much. It's very similar to using a mouse so the learning curve should be pretty low for your average computer user.
I've been using a bamboo myself for a few years now with no complaints. Most people won't need one with a drawing size more than 6" inches wide by 4" tall, which is pretty standard and usually runs $80-$100.