ClassicCar

Browniepetersen wrote:

I am trying to figure out why a rating system such as this is important? Most of those of us that post on the discussion page are just joining in on what the conversation at hand and depending on my mood I can be for or against the post or comment. If I am against and say something direct or punnishing--wham!!! I get a negative rating. Does that mean that no one will like me from then on? Perhaps if I express an opinion in one of the fields that I am a subject matter expert in, and it is not the same as the opinion of someone who has a high rating does that mean that my opinion is less valid or true? Why is it important that we place measurements on a fun part of our hobby? Does there always have to be a winner or a loser in every group?:confused:

A recent member of our Forum helped me out on an issue the other day and I logged on to give him a positive point and the system sent me a note back and said: "why don't you pass around your ratings?" or the one that I got that said: "You should not post ratings as often." This whole thing is just nutz. It is somewhat like, Why does Snap, Crackle and Pop--Snap, Crackle and Pop? Why is it important to know why? Is this system of logic not the reason we do not have car judging in the HET? Just wondering? By the way, if I give someone enough negative feedback will that member be banned from participating?:confused:

First, understand this software is not a unique product for ClassicCar.com. It is in use on a million other sites, so every feature may or may not have significance to our members.

The rating system is used to rate quality and accurate information, thus new people to forums can look to see if the posting member reputation is high, making the information good for decision making purposes. A lot of people come to the forum for help. It is reassuring to see that the community respects the posting members information enough to be of use by the one-time visitor. Also, the posting rating and reputation rating are two separate items.

The infraction system is used to spot spam and trouble-makers. When an Infraction flag is placed on a post, it notifies Admin of a problem...naked photos, crapola vendors, fruits & nuts, and the occasional school yard brawl between normally good folks. Spam is the big enemy, but a dozen or so times a year its problem between members that needs sorted out. In 14 years, I have had to only ban about 6 people from the forums...which speaks very well of those that visit ClassicCar.com. In short, it is not used very often.

You can give all the negative feedback you want, it will not lead to a ban. If you give too much negative feedback, it will start to reflect on your reputation. I believe in positive feedback, negative feedback is pointless. Remember what Mother said "If you can't say something nice, say nothing at all." A good rule I think.

A hint: If members are engaged in a "contest" where any type of personal slights are leveled...and those post disappear....consider it a friendly warning. Please don't write me with your position, I always side with myself in all cases. :rolleyes: Good Manners....are the best and at ClassicCar.com, our members have the best!!!!!