Katie's Blog Feedback

[sillycybin]

Katies blog is a huge turnoff. I dont care about what kind of soup she eats, or how she feels about the 'scene' of a specific Apple store. I want facts and I want them in complete sentences.

I guess maybe some peeps around here care about her embroidered work gear, wonderful eating habits, and impressive vocabulary more than actual iPhone info.

[arn]

Katies blog is a huge turnoff. I dont care about what kind of soup she eats, or how she feels about the 'scene' of a specific Apple store. I want facts and I want them in complete sentences.

I guess maybe some peeps around here care about her embroidered work gear, wonderful eating habits, and impressive vocabulary more than actual iPhone info.

It's certainly a departure from the other material on the site, but that's part of the intention. There should be plenty of "facts" and other content otherwise that this recurring column won't affect. :)

arn

[sbrownla]

Katies blog is a huge turnoff. I dont care about what kind of soup she eats, or how she feels about the 'scene' of a specific Apple store. I want facts and I want them in complete sentences.

I guess maybe some peeps around here care about her embroidered work gear, wonderful eating habits, and impressive vocabulary more than actual iPhone info.

Why not get one of the girls from Shiny? They're a lot more... refined?

Soup? Wretched rap music?

[Markleshark]

It's fairly simple, really. Don't like it? Don't read it.

I for one think its a great idea and Katie does a great job, more of a consumer level experience rather than talking about the finer technical points. Fair enough if this was the only information you could get about the iPhone, but since there are other blogs I don't see how you can complain.

[zflauaus]

I agree. Katie is doing an absolutely wonderful job of posting these things from the point-of-view of an average consumer. Ok, maybe not SO average...

In case you haven't noticed, Katie isn't the hard fact/statistical type of person on the forums, so why should she change into that on a blog?

Once again, Katie, I applaud you at being able to do this. You are doing a fine job and keep up the good work. Look forward to hearing more from you.

[superleccy]

Where is Abilene and why don't they have EDGE?

I like Katie's blog and I look forward to her posts. Sure it's not he sort of thing that MR normally does, but what's wrong with trying to broaden ones content?

SL

[blakespot]

Why not get one of the girls from Shiny? They're a lot more... refined?

Soup? Wretched rap music?
I am no fan of rap music, but I like Katie's blog and am on-board with what Arn's shooting for there.


blakespot

[br208]

Re: Katie's post I enjoy her style and she did hi-lite a problem that I for one was unaware of. I think her blog shows great potential,
br

[fixyourthinking]

It's certainly a departure from the other material on the site, but that's part of the intention. There should be plenty of "facts" and other content otherwise that this recurring column won't affect. :)

arn

But arn,


This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business". While it seems their issues were real and bothersome ... the argument was GREATLY diminished by the way it was worded and the problems framed within the story.

Pretentious comes to mind.

[Leesure]

Yes, it's different from the technical reporting, but I like it. Keep it up Katie.

"This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business"."

"Whiney complainer"? What, because she has the audacity to complain about a real problem that is not all that uncommon? 'Doesn't respect "Business'''?? WTF are you talking about?

Pretentious? Yes, you are.

[slate1]

But arn,


This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business". While it seems their issues were real and bothersome ... the argument was GREATLY diminished by the way it was worded and the problems framed within the story.

Pretentious comes to mind.

What?!?! There's not enough business oriented techno-babble on the 'net for you? Not enough on this site alone for you? "Pretentious" - hmmmm, interesting choice of words.

I find Katie's blog quite refreshing and a departure from the usually dry norm. Dare I say... it's more human? More grounded?

The interesting thing about all the pictures I've seen of the iPhone launch across the nation is that 75% of those shown buying the phone appear to be individuals: a) under the age of 18 and b) who have most certainly never seen anything remotely resembling a job. Quite bluntly, I could care less about how well the iPhone allows these individuals to update and check their MySpace page. Katie's perspective, however, is right in line with many of us.

Katie - keep doing EXACTLY what you're doing (and I know you will...) and many of us will keep reading. I'm green with envy, by the way, at the idea of having two Apple stores at your disposal... I'd take one without the gaggle of 13 year old girls spending hours giggling as they make faces in Photo Booth...

[blindzero]

But arn,


This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business". While it seems their issues were real and bothersome ... the argument was GREATLY diminished by the way it was worded and the problems framed within the story.

Pretentious comes to mind.

What in gods name are you talking about?
Quit trolling.

[arn]

But arn,


This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business".

The beauty of this is that there is no prerequisite for this job. I accept that there will be some people who may never like it especially considering the site audience... but I would ask people to not be rude to Katie.

arn

[sishaw]

But arn,


This person seems to be a real whiney complainer who doesn't seem to understand technology or respect "business". While it seems their issues were real and bothersome ... the argument was GREATLY diminished by the way it was worded and the problems framed within the story.

Pretentious comes to mind.

No offense, but, get over yourself! Katie's blog is fun and gives a different POV. For those of us still considering whether to buy, it's valuable insight.

[Clix Pix]

As a fellow early adopter, I've been enjoying reading Katie's blog with her delightful comments and insights, getting some glimpses into her life and how her new iPhone is now a part of that life.... Probably the ones who are nitpicking and grumbling are just full of sour grapes because they don't have an iPhone.

[dukeblue91]

I happen to like Katie's blog, it gives it a human touch and a personal point of view.
So Katie keep up the good work.

P.S I had the same crash happen to me too the other day.

[sbrownla]

The beauty of this is that there is no prerequisite for this job. I accept that there will be some people who may never like it especially considering the site audience... but I would ask people to not be rude to Katie.

arn

No one is being rude to her. We're criticizing her because she's out there to be criticized and some of us don't happen to enjoy her style. If giving criticism is wrong then I don't wanna be right and if I can't speak on the things that I find faulty, in a reasonable manner, then maybe you guys should start banning me and the others who don't have the same point of view as you.

I keep seeing people JUMP on, flame and trash other people on this site because of opposing points of view, and never have I seen such ill will on message boards since the iPhone came out.

[sillycybin]

PS. To those giving Katie a hard time, please pack it in. Your entitled to your opinion but a) This is a post about the issue she had with the iPhone, not your opinion of how she writes and b) The whole point is to get and end users opinion, so if you don't like what she says then fine, you're a different type of end user. No need to be mean about it!

I'm glad I'm not the only one turned off by the 'new' MR style. I would enjoy Katies posts much more if she left out all personal opinions about food, music, clothes, and society and stuck more with iPhone information.

and yes, pretentious is a great word to describe Katies writing style, but I would lump most all vegan food eating people into that group. They are classic! herbivores are no better than omnivours, even though 'they' would like to think so.

1/2 of what she writes about is good information, the other half is JUNK. I have to sift through her personal opinions and insults to find out what she is talking about. maybe i like to wear my pants halfway down my butt. Maybe I love rap music and am one of the peeps that enjoys the 'Houston Apple Mall scene"

Maybe I eat a side of beef every day.

none of it has anything to do with the iPhone

[Eraserhead]

I would enjoy Katies posts much more if she left out all personal opinions about food, music, clothes, and society and stuck more with iPhone information.

http://enquata.com/mr-images/baby.jpg

She is showing she has a personality, which is definitely a good thing ;).

[mac 2005]

Probably the ones who are nitpicking and grumbling are just full of sour grapes because they don't have an iPhone.

Life, at least in my experience, is seldom that simple. I can't imagine how not owning an iPhone would make someone less likely to evaluate an iPhone-oriented blog on its merits vs. "sour grapes." If that were the case, most magazines would either not exist or have limited readership: How many of us, for example, can afford Martha Stewart's lifestyle or the cars that grace the cover of "Automobile"? Do we forfeit our right to an opinion or the ability to express that opinion unless we own the goods? :confused:

Frankly, the whole iPhone experience on MacRumors.com is really turning me off to both the iPhone and many of the people contributing to the "discussion." As another member notes:

...never have I seen such ill will on message boards since the iPhone came out.

[Blue Velvet]

Well, I like it. And so do many others. It made me chuckle this morning... And virtually all of the criticism in this thread isn't constructive at all; makes me wonder about peoples' motivations.

It's a blog, not a technical report. Don't like, don't read it. Simple.

[LimeiBook86]

I think she has a pretty good blog, I mean it's just starting out, I'm sure if you give her a little more time she'll add more entries and settle in. :)

If you don't like the blog you don't have to read it, the internet is just like TV. If you don't like something, change the channel or turn it off. :p

[Turkish]

Don't like it, don't read it.

Simple, as previously stated.

[Peace]

Katie's blog is just what it's supposed to be.
The real life experiences of a new iPhone user.The iPhone
wasn't marketed as a business device so why should her
blog reflect that ? .
Much a do about nothing.Relax.Im sure Katie feels the pressure she's under.
Keep it up Katie !!

On a side note. Two finger typing is getting faster:D

[princealfie]

I protest its existence. No dice 4 me.:mad: :mad: :mad:

[Salasm]

Katies blog is a huge turnoff. I dont care about what kind of soup she eats, or how she feels about the 'scene' of a specific Apple store. I want facts and I want them in complete sentences.

katie is funny and, dare i say witty? how dare you give critical feedback!? and how dare you upset the fragile macrumors balance?

i think you need a 2 week ban to rethink what you just wrote! :mad:

[sillycybin]

katie is funny and, dare i say witty? how dare you give critical feedback!? and how dare you upset the fragile macrumors balance?

i think you need a 2 week ban to rethink what you just wrote! :mad:

I agree. just where do I think I get off? How dare I!

[localoid]

Geesh… tough crowd, man… touch crowd.

[kwood]

Some of these posts are seeming kind of childish. I may not appreciate Katie's style at times, but I still enjoy reading her blog. She provides a different perspective about the iPhone which I find enjoyable.

Her blog would be boring if it read something like this all the time:

"12:30. Lunch time, pull out iPhone and turn it on. Open Safari on EDGE Network. Connection Speed 20Kbps. Facebook is loading slowly. iTunes playing, crash. Error -34. Restart iPhone. Launch Safari on Wi-Fi 802.11g network. Connection Speed 54Mbps. Facebook loading quickly. Open iTunes crash. Error -34. Restart......."

Who would read that? It would get awful boring real quick.

Lets think about it, are you upset at her style or are you mad she got a free iPhone with data plan?

[calculus]

Oh dear...

I can't really comment about the blog as I have not read much of it. This seems to me to be another one of those situations where people are not able to accept that not everything is for everybody.

If you try something and don't like it then leave it alone. On the other hand, if people don't like something that you do that's also OK.

There really is no need to get upset about such small things.

[iPhil]

Katies blog is a huge turnoff. I dont care about what kind of soup she eats, or how she feels about the 'scene' of a specific Apple store. I want facts and I want them in complete sentences.

I guess maybe some peeps around here care about her embroidered work gear, wonderful eating habits, and impressive vocabulary more than actual iPhone info.




Like said before if you don't like it the 'change da' page' or have A look here (http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=iphone+blogs&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8')

[Steve1496]

I completely disagree. Katie's done a great job and I hope this poster does not put her off. Her posts are interesting and entertaining.

As others have mentioned, there is a solution to the OP's problem: don't read it if you don't like it.

Steve

[calculus]

Her posts are interesting and entertaining.



This is not to have a go at you in particular but, for me, the way that you have expressed this is not helpful.

I would find it better if you were be able to say something like "I find her posts interesting and entertaining." This then gives the possibility for someone else to say that they don't. Of course the same applies in the other direction of this argument.

[Lyle]

Let's think about it, are you upset at her style or are you mad she got a free iPhone with data plan?Ding Ding Ding! We have a winner!

[Jovian9]

Another vote for Katie. There are tons of places I can go read the technical details/experiences of people and their iPhones. Katie's is refreshing b/c it's not like any of those.

I really appreciate the whole concept/idea b/t having a member get in line for an iPhone, MacRumors take care of the cost, and then the member reporting their real life experiences with it. I don't recall that ever happening in the years I've been a member here. Great idea Arn!

Keep up the good work Katie.

[shecky]

I completely disagree. Katie's done a great job and I hope this poster does not put her off.

my own personal opinions of what i do or do not think of the blog aside, if katie is going to be paid/compensated (re: free iphone) to post on a public blog with commenting enabled to a large built-in audience, she had better have a thick enough skin to take some criticism about her posts. if one person expressing an opinion about her writing "puts her off" enough to not write, then she did not deserve to have the blog to start with.

if you put it up on a wall other people can look at, don't be surprised if not everyone likes it.

[rdowns]

maybe i like to wear my pants halfway down my butt. Maybe I love rap music and am one of the peeps that enjoys the 'Houston Apple Mall scene"

Maybe I eat a side of beef every day.



Why?

[iRachel]

Add me to the list of those who are enjoying the blog so far. There's plenty of places where I can read about the technical data - I like hearing about Katie's experiences with the phone. Over the last few years on this board, I've found Katie to be a good storyteller, as well, which makes the blog an enjoyable read, regardless of what it's about.

[TheAnswer]

I really like Katie's hands-on blog, it lets us know how her iPhone is working in her day-to-day life and what problems early adopters can expect. At first, I was a little worried that her blog would contain a high cake frosting to iPhone ratio, but I've been pleasantly surprised in that regard.

[nbs2]

I suppose I should preface my comments with an admission - I am jealous that KT got a free iPhone and plan. Many of the folks who aren't probably don't care for the iPhone. But, I would implore that jealousy not cloud judgement.

Clearly this is my opinion and nothing more, but I am noticing a few interesting generalizations (to which there are clear exceptions, but moving on). Those with greater personal investment to the site and thus more time interacting with KT seem to be enjoying her blog more than those who don't. Me? I find it a little light on the postings and content, but at the same time, it make iPhone ownership feel more personal than a lot of other reviews that try and remain detached from real life. Overall, I'd give it a solid B.

For those of you who are not pleased with the blog, why don't you make suggestions on what KT can do to make it better? One of the great glories of the internet, vB, and MR is that we can give each other feedback. Perhaps if comments were framed mroe constructively, you might find changes that would allow you to enjoy her blog even more.

For those of you who are pleased with the blog, but not pleased with those who are not pleased with the blog, calm down. So people are dissatisfied with the structure or content. Telling people to ignore the blog if they don't like it does nothing to make the blog stronger - it serves to only maintain the status quo. Perhaps it might be better if people were to post constructive comments, but people aren't perfect. KT's a big girl and I doubt will stop writing because a few people are complaining. Most of the less friendly comments hopefully won't deter her, and the more friendly will help her improve as a writer. Sure, there will be a fair share of people that complain to complain, but no comments lead to stagnation. You take the good with the bad.

As arn pointed out, this is a new concept for MR. It may not be everybody's cup of tea, but that's not the goal of any blog. Some will be soured, some will be pleased. So be it. When you have made a suggestion, give KT some time to decide how she might be able to change, if she wants to change. If her style doesn't evolve into something you enjoy, move on. If it does, enjoy it and know that you have contributed. Even if there isn't change, you might find that as you get to know KT better you enjoy her writing style and personality.

As a final thought - KT, I'm enjoying your blog. It isn't the most captivating read ever, but it is good. I know you're busy with life and can't devote yourself to constant updates, but I hope to see more as you get more comfortable with this process. Also, every once in a while (biweekly? monthly?) a dry recap of your overall thoughts might be nice. Especially with a blog, it'll be nice to see how your opinion changes with use. I don't know - maybe it isn't a good idea. Well, take it for whatever.

Anyway, now that I've managed to offend everybody that has posted in this thread....

[Peace]

I suppose I should preface my comments with an admission - I am jealous that KT got a free iPhone and plan. Many of the folks who aren't probably don't care for the iPhone. But, I would implore that jealousy not cloud judgement.

Clearly this is my opinion and nothing more....

Anyway, now that I've managed to offend everybody that has posted in this thread....


I LOVE my iPhone and am in no way jealous of Katie getting one for free.I'm happy for her.

[kwood]

I LOVE my iPhone and am in no way jealous of Katie getting one for free.I'm happy for her.

I don't have an iPhone, but I second that motion. Why not be happy for her?

[KingofAwesome]

Thankfully, I'm pretty confident that arn isn't going to kick Katie to the curb just because of some readers who like to complain loudly. And Katie, I hope you've got a thick skin because people can obviously be pretty hurtful on forums.

I think Katie is a nice addition to the MR team - there are plenty of sites that just give straight-up articles about tech. What we need is some personality, and frankly we need some women to supply that personality. I've certainly gotten tired of the geek news sites that seem to be developed for and consumed by a bunch of white twenty-something males with poor social skills.

I don't even own an iPhone or plan to get one for a while, but this section is nice, light, and fun to read.

[solvs]

This reminds me of the complaining whenever anyone would link to Mac360. It's a blog people. Facts are everywhere, go read them if you want anywhere. If you don't like her style, hey, don't read it. It's one thing when columnists who are professionally paid get a bunch of stuff wrong and/or complain about it, but for a long time poster who only got a one time payment of a new device she's been blogging about for a private site, I think what she's doing is fine.

With everything else going on in the world right now, I can't believe people are upset because they don't like the style of the person giving them their iPhone info. :rolleyes:

[skoker]

Not to stir the pot at all, but this quote did piss me off a bit:

Yeah.. I kind of have a job to go to? I do not have a flexible enough work schedule to sit down in the middle of the day and write stuff out, and haven't had much time to sit down and do anything more than passively use an app for more than about 3 minutes.
Toys don't sell themselves.

If KT knew that she wasn't going to be able to provide quality content for the site within the first few days, when demand would be the greatest for it and would put MR in the best competitive spot with other sites reviewing the iPhone, why did she accept it? Any shlum could take a picture of a phone in a microwave, but knowing the quality of the reviews and news from MR in the past and knowing with KT is capable of, I must say I was throughly disappointed with the content she provided. She's got a laptop for christsakes, if you are that pressed for time, type it out on the toilet or something.

[backspinner]

I find her posts interesting and entertaining.

[tk421]

Not to stir the pot at all, but this quote did piss me off a bit:


If KT knew that she wasn't going to be able to provide quality content for the site within the first few days, when demand would be the greatest for it and would put MR in the best competitive spot with other sites reviewing the iPhone, why did she accept it? Any shlum could take a picture of a phone in a microwave, but knowing the quality of the reviews and news from MR in the past and knowing with KT is capable of, I must say I was throughly disappointed with the content she provided. She's got a laptop for christsakes, if you are that pressed for time, type it out on the toilet or something.

I agree with you completely.

You know what else annoys me? When some folks (including me) said they were disappointed with how little Katie was posting, our posts were moved to a new thread and it was closed. So much for discussion. Here's the thread (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=3867262#post3867262).

As for all those asking for constructive criticism, here is some: Post more. More frequently and more information.

[blakespot]

I like the style of what Katie is doing.

I always enjoy sort of "letting go" and blogging in a more relaxed fashion, when opportunity permits. And for me that is only when I am posting to my personal retro computing blog, ByteCellar.com (http://www.bytecellar.com).

Take, for instance, this post I just made - enjoyable to write:

http://www.bytecellar.com/archives/000111.php

I would not take that tone in my main site, iPod Hacks (http://www.ipodhacks.com), but it's fun on the blog and people seem to enjoy it. Just my $.02.




blakespot

[sananda]

there seem to be some mean spirited people at large. i like katie's blog and even if i didn't like it there's nothing badly written or pretentious about it. to those who thought it appropriate to criticise, may we read your better written and less pretentious work?

[sananda]

This is not to have a go at you in particular but, for me, the way that you have expressed this is not helpful.

I would find it better if you were be able to say something like "I find her posts interesting and entertaining." This then gives the possibility for someone else to say that they don't. Of course the same applies in the other direction of this argument.

absurd pedantry.

[nbs2]

With everything else going on in the world right now, I can't believe people are upset because they don't like the style of the person giving them their iPhone info. :rolleyes:

I really hope you aren't being serious. Under that line, with all that is going on in parts of the world, most of shouldn't be upset about anything. We should all be pleased as peaches about everything. My electric company raised their rates 50% and the state government gave them their blessing? Hey, I could be in Botswana - why am I complaining. If people be disappointed, let them be disappointed - the only goal should be to improve.

to those who thought it appropriate to criticise, may we read your better written and less pretentious work?

The point is that the blog is part of the MR community. Like it or not, the blog represents all of us who take a personal interest in the success of the community. It doesn't take an expert to make suggestions on how things can be approved, and the feeling of investment can spur a greater desire for improvement. My last year of law school, my wife helped me edit my papers. I critique and suggest improvements to agreements drawn up by senior attorneys at the company where I work. My wife isn't more adept with the law than I am; I'm not more adept than my boss is. But, she/I take an interest in my/my company's work.

I like the style of what Katie is doing.

I always enjoy sort of "letting go" and blogging in a more relaxed fashion, when opportunity permits.

I find her posts interesting and entertaining.

I don't even own an iPhone or plan to get one for a while, but this section is nice, light, and fun to read.

These points are just as helpful as the ones that point out "failures" in KT's blog. Clearly there is a large segment of people that are satisfied as is - more input for KT to digest as she develops the blog.

What seems to be happening here (and I feel like I'm falling into it while trying to fix it), is that people are more concerned with turning critics into personal attackers. I'm sure (hope?) that many of the folks with complaints would find KT to be an enjoyable and wonderful person to speak with - I know that I do. But, they can still suggest where there might be room for improvement. And a good many are making suggestions without attacking KT herself. On the flip side, when someone points out the successes in KT's blog, they aren't attacking the critics (unless they do that separately), even if the successes are being pointed out in contrast to the failures. It's as most of you can't see anything other than your shade...

I don't have an iPhone, but I second that motion. Why not be happy for her?

Who said they weren't happy for her? I said I was jealous. If you and others are not, you are better people than me. I'd love to get an iPhone paid for. When I read the intro to the blog, my jaw dropped and I started to think about how lucky she was and how I wished it had been me chosen (jealousy rears its ugly head). But, I was still glad that KT was picked. She's a kind, caring person who can be a lot of fun. I remember when KT showed up on MR - I didn't interact much, but it was amazing to watch someone become part of a family so fast. When the blog was announced, part of me felt like a proud brother.

I don't know why I'm letting this thread get under my skin so much, I never defend the other aspects of MR like this. But, it seems like KT's blog is turning into Yahweh - for good or bad, nobody is allowed to comment on it. If you have something to contribute, do it. If you want to complain abut what someone said, go write it on a piece of paper and stick it to your screen.

[vniow]

Ok, before I respond to the post below let me say I was a bit shocked and a little peeved about the whole deal when I first heard about it for a few reasons;

First off I thought it was a bad use of MR funds and while its not my site and I have no say in what gets spent where, it seemed a bit odd that MR would pay upwards of $2k total for an iPhone + service for a member to blog about when there are probably thousands of other MR members who blog and have already got an iPhone with their own money. If MR can afford to give a $2k+ gift to someone then they certainly don't need the $25 they get from demis. I paid $25 to support the site every year and that wasn't intended to give someone a handout like this.

Why hasn't MR paid for the time and the services of the people who covered events like WWDC or Macworld? Those were all volunteers and as far as I know, received no MR funds. The fact that MR gave someone a payout (a rather expensive one at that) screams of favouritism and is one of the several reasons I don't be giving any more money to MR ever again and don't visit the site much anymore.

Nothing against Katie here, she's doing a fine job with what was offered to her, I more object to the deal itself.

Anyway...

Not to stir the pot at all, but this quote did piss me off a bit:

skoker, its a ****ing cellphone. Its a bunch of other things, but its also a cellphone. What are you expecting, her to update it every time she makes a call? There's only a certain amount you can do with the damn thing and therefore only a certain amount that's really worth blogging about. Do you see day to day reports of people blogging about new computers they got? What about other appliances? She's doing well with what was given to her and you should give her that at least.

Is it like the most exiting blog ever? Not really but I like her style and its fun to read. So um, ****.

[devilot]

Why hasn't MR paid for the time and the services of the people who covered events like WWDC or Macworld? Those were all volunteers and as far as I know, received no MR funds.That's just it... that's just "as far as you know." :)

[tk421]

...There's only a certain amount you can do with the damn thing and therefore only a certain amount that's really worth blogging about...

You're right. After a photo of an iPhone by a cake, what more information could we possibly desire? :rolleyes:


If you have criticisms that you think are valid, maybe others can too.

Edit: To be clear, I liked the photos. I have no problem with Katie's posts. I would just like, you know, some more. :) More information and more frequent posts.

[Silentwave]

That's just it... that's just "as far as you know." :)

Devilot, she knows enough to have some ammunition there.

I honestly don't care much, i bought my own iphone anyways, and i went to WWDC anyways because I *had* to see Steve, but MR didn't in any way shape or form reimburse me for anything. Do I care? Not really. I was going to WWDC anyways, and though it meant more work and more stuff, I was fine with it. Would I do it again? Believe it. Will I? If I can afford to go to MWSF and WWDC08, you can count on it if arn needs someone on scene. Will I want compensation? No, it doesn't matter to me in the least. I get my own personal satisfaction from doing what I can for the mac community.

But she does have a point.

p.s.
I <3 KT!

[zach]

That's just it... that's just "as far as you know." :)

oh jesus christ, quit the bullcrap... i'm all for mods and admins being appropriately mysterious, but don't deliberately try to mislead people/put other people down by misusing your authority. that's just juvenile.

[devilot]

I fail to see how I was being so mysterious. :confused: I'm confident that Arn has worked out details with different individuals. He doesn't have to disclose anything publicly.

[janey]

That's just it... that's just "as far as you know." :)
afaik MacRumors hasn't yet. Did you see arn asking anyone if they want an all-expenses-paid trip to WWDC07 (arguably ~2k in worth for the ticket alone)? No, he asked if anyone was going to WWDC, and certain people provided amazing coverage, without being paid for it. Same with all previous MacWorlds and WWDCs. Why didn't he ask for people who already had iPhones instead of purchasing one for Katie including the plan? Nothing against Katie, I think she's doing a great job so far, but it's how she got the phone that irks me (and yes I am jealous and pissy about this, understandably, so are a lot of other people).

[zach]

I fail to see how I was being so mysterious. :confused: I'm confident that Arn has worked out details with different individuals. He doesn't have to disclose anything publicly.

you're obviously completely missing my point, but whatever. i don't suppose there's any point in trying to get it across.

[Blue Velvet]

...but it's how she got the phone that irks me (and yes I am jealous and pissy about this, understandably, so are a lot of other people).


OK Janey, if you're so informed about what really happened, how did she get the phone then?

[janey]

OK Janey, if you're so informed about what really happened, how did she get the phone then?
what does that matter? the point is that MR purchased an iPhone for Katie's use for blogging on the iPhone blog while there's a gazillion users in the iPhone forum alone who could have done it, and quite a few regulars as well, without MR having to pay for any phone or service.

MacRumors has never reimbursed or paid for anything to this extent for anyone else doing things like covering keynotes, which is albeit a short event, but still something people go out of their way to do for MacRumors for free.

Like I said, when's the last time MR paid for someone's WWDC ticket? Or even just to get an appropriate media pass for such an event?

[vniow]

That's just it... that's just "as far as you know." :)

I think I do know considering I met and drove around a bunch a few people who went to WWDC, one of them being the one who provided the photos and the internet connection. ;)

I fail to see how I was being so mysterious. :confused: I'm confident that Arn has worked out details with different individuals. He doesn't have to disclose anything publicly.

zach's point ---------> *whoosh*
your head

[Blue Velvet]

what does that matter?

It matters because:

...it's how she got the phone that irks me (and yes I am jealous and pissy about this, understandably, so are a lot of other people)

If you have the courage of your convictions and claim to speak for a lot of other people, then front up.

[janey]

If you have the courage of your convictions and claim to speak for a lot of other people, then front up.
Is it not clear that MR paid for Katie's iPhone?

[Blue Velvet]

OK, given the hooha... 30-min timeout. If you're bothered, report this post and request for the thread to be unlocked, with a reason mind.

Thanks.

BV

[sananda]

The point is that the blog is part of the MR community. Like it or not, the blog represents all of us who take a personal interest in the success of the community. It doesn't take an expert to make suggestions on how things can be approved, and the feeling of investment can spur a greater desire for improvement. My last year of law school, my wife helped me edit my papers. I critique and suggest improvements to agreements drawn up by senior attorneys at the company where I work. My wife isn't more adept with the law than I am; I'm not more adept than my boss is. But, she/I take an interest in my/my company's work.



when you review agreements drafted by your colleagues, you have something useful to offer. when i practised law i very much enjoyed the process of taking advantage of the huge pool of knowledge, experience and intelligence in the firm. but this isn't law. it's writing. and i really don't think the critics are coming from a position of actually knowing much about writing; they just find the blog doesn't suit their particular needs. it just isn't the case that the blog is badly written or pretentious.

[Blue Velvet]

Let's pick this up again but please try to avoid attacking Katie or MacRumors in a venting manner. If you have a criticism, then please try and make it constructive and relevant. That way, genuine feedback can be useful for us and others.

Merely saying you're annoyed is more useful for you, than perhaps us.

Onwards. :)

[fistful]

I personally think she is doing a decent job although I could do without the thorough detail as to what she ate for lunch although I just gleam over those parts anyways. Even though I realize she does have a life outside of her blogging obligation I would have expected more entries by now for someone who is basically being paid to do so.

I can see how some contributors are miffed how the money was spent but when it comes down to it they knew ahead of time they have no control how the money is spent. I think the fact that she was given an iPhone could have been a little less transparent as members are generally not aware how the money is spent in other instances.

[EricNau]

I really like the blog, and Katie does a great job.

To be honest, I never would have suspected her, but now I know why she was chosen for the task.

It's really unfortunate that each entry isn't longer and there aren't more of them! :D

PS - I thought I should give some actually feedback:

I really like the style of the blog so far, but more technical details would be nice. For example, in the last entry, iPhone iPod: What's wrong with you?!, the phrases: "Don’t use EDGE! What, are you in Abilene? Problem solved! I can sleep again! Hooray!" didn't mean much to me. ...Perhaps that conversation could go into more detail?

Smaller blog entries would also be nice for simple things like thoughts on the iPhone restore experience.

[jsw]

oh jesus christ, quit the bullcrap... i'm all for mods and admins being appropriately mysterious, but don't deliberately try to mislead people/put other people down by misusing your authority. that's just juvenile.
I was going to just delete this for being insulting, but I think it's best to reply to it.

This was not an example of devilot being mysterious and misleading people. Her point is simply that Arn and whomever he has compensated are the only ones who know of it, with the one exception, obviously, being KT. It's not like there's some big moderator thread where we all laugh about the perks we get and then hide them from everyone else. KT was obviously compensated. That does not mean she was the only one in the history of MR to ever receive anything from Arn. If anyone else has, they haven't gone public with it. The fact that you all know people who were not compensated isn't sufficient proof that KT is the only one who ever was.

It's Arn's site and Arn's money. If he decided to make KT the first ever paid MR member, fine. If others have received compensation before, fine. KT's signed up for a two-year stint at a pay of about $3/day, all told. It's not exactly like she's yachting with the Sultan now.

The people who know the full details of the arrangement are Arn and KT. Not the rest of us. She's got over 700 days before the contract runs out. Perhaps by then, you'll have more to criticize than the simple fact that Arn bought her a phone and she hasn't posted a lot yet.

[macjackpro]

As a fellow early adopter, I've been enjoying reading Katie's blog with her delightful comments and insights, getting some glimpses into her life and how her new iPhone is now a part of that life.... Probably the ones who are nitpicking and grumbling are just full of sour grapes because they don't have an iPhone.

My guess is that they have an iPhone, but have no life.

[XNine]

Why doesn't everyone just **** and fight already? Quit with the talk, let's see some fists flying.

[zflauaus]

I'm going to break the spell of evil real quickly and give my comments.

I think Katie is doing a great job on her blog. She is doing the best she can while still working. She is putting her real-world experiences on here. If you know Katie from the forums, you would know that all the little, what you may say, "unnecessary" details are just part of her character. She has no reason to all of a sudden shape up into this hardened tech journalist.

She gives a perspective that hasn't been seen much: that of an average person. Ok, maybe not sooo average, but you get the idea. She is writing in her style that she sees fit and that she likes and if arn had a problem with it, I'm sure he would have told her by now.

Once again Katie, congrats with landing this awesome privilege and look forward to reading your future work.

[Silentwave]

My guess is that they have an iPhone, but have no life.

Hey, I have an iphone and no life but you don't see me nitpicking kt :rolleyes:

Let us not forget that KT has to work around both work and uni.

[siurpeeman]

katie, i think you're doing a fantastic job. i like that your experiences and impressions are like my own, and i'm sure it's a lot like everybody else's, too. keep up the good work. :)

[kretzy]

I'm going to break the spell of evil real quickly and give my comments.

I think Katie is doing a great job on her blog. She is doing the best she can while still working. She is putting her real-world experiences on here. If you know Katie from the forums, you would know that all the little, what you may say, "unnecessary" details are just part of her character. She has no reason to all of a sudden shape up into this hardened tech journalist.

She gives a perspective that hasn't been seen much: that of an average person. Ok, maybe not sooo average, but you get the idea. She is writing in her style that she sees fit and that she likes and if arn had a problem with it, I'm sure he would have told her by now.

Once again Katie, congrats with landing this awesome privilege and look forward to reading your future work.

Wow, you've just said exactly what I was about to type out. I think Katie's doing a wonderful job and its disappointing to see some people's attitude to towards it. I understand if thats not what some people want out of a technical blog but it is what it is and I don't think it ever promised to be more. Personally its one of the very few iPhone related threads/posts/articles I read.

Keep up the great work Katie! :)

[bluebomberman]

I'm sorry to say that I'm one of those MacRumor users who aren't particularly enthusiastic about Katie's blog. I think her last post about her iPhone issues (iPhone iPod, What's wrong with you?! (http://www.macrumors.com/iphone/2007/07/04/iphone-ipod-whats-wrong-with-you/)) embodies all my problems with the blog as currently implemented on the site:

1) Her writing style clashes with the no-nonsense, just-the-facts tone of the rest of the site, particularly arn's posts.

2) "Don't like it, don't read it" doesn't work that well here. Her posts seem more prominent on the iPhone blog than the news items - perhaps it's the picture, or the longer posts that she writes. Or maybe skipping her posts is made more difficult by the fact that the headline and lead sentences don't succinctly sum up what the post is going to be about. You can't just scan her post about a troublesome iPhone when she starts by discussing her lunch.

3) Which leads into problem 3 for me: I didn't understand at the end of the post what happened. Maybe I took too many stupid pills that day, but I can't recall ever having trouble figuring out any story that was posted on the main page. If I can't figure out what your site is posting, then I'm going to go to some other website.

I think it sums down to this: Katie's blog is such a departure from the MacRumors formula that I don't see why her writing should mingle with the rest of the site so prominently. I would recommend separating her blog from the main iPhone blog. Leave Katie's blog as a sidebar on the main iPhone blog page, and give her blog a prominent link on the front page if you want.

EDIT: Kinda like the way esteemed newspapers separate editorials and opinions from their news sections. (end EDIT)

Personally, I think this takes care of all the issues worth addressing.

[kretzy]

1) Her writing style clashes with the no-nonsense, just-the-facts tone of the rest of the site, particularly arn's posts.

I think that's kinda the whole point actually. Arn's idea, from what I've gathered, was to provide a different perspective than the usual facts and figures and I think KT does a great job at this. The quirky little details mixed amongst the rest of it are what make it (for me at least) an entertaining and interesting read.

Your argument for separating it from the main articles isn't particularly strong either. Sure the blog may be more prominent, but that doesn't mean someone is standing there forcing you to read it.

[tk421]

Even though I realize she does have a life outside of her blogging obligation I would have expected more entries by now for someone who is basically being paid to do so.

Yep. That's what my complaint is.

...KT's signed up for a two-year stint at a pay of about $3/day, all told. It's not exactly like she's yachting with the Sultan now.

The people who know the full details of the arrangement are Arn and KT. Not the rest of us. She's got over 700 days before the contract runs out. Perhaps by then, you'll have more to criticize than the simple fact that Arn bought her a phone and she hasn't posted a lot yet.

Do most people look at it as 700+ days of $3 per day? I doubt it. I don't care if she only posts once a month in 2008. The fact is, the news is only relevant when it is new. What can she blog about next year? (I guess if there are software updates, but those will likely be pretty minor)

[AlBDamned]

The ranting about it being unfair compared to other events comes across like the ranting of a spoilt child. We have little idea of the agreement, the terms or whatever else.

What we do know is KT was picked a while ago to do a blog of some kind for MR and with the iPhone the opportunity came along to be able to do it. It was a choice made. Deal with it.

I pay money to be a contributor to this site and help it that way because I get a lot back from it, and see the blog as a valuable, interesting development that's only just the beginning of a lot of other things.

And as others have said, it's a blog, it reflects the writer's character and if you don't like it, then don't read it.

Sure, suggest areas for improvement or ask questions but saying, "I have to sift through a load of junk to get what I want from it" and saying it like she should immediately change her style so it better reflects your needs is outrageous, not to mention completely and utterly small minded.

[bluebomberman]

I think that's kinda the whole point actually. Arn's idea, from what I've gathered, was to provide a different perspective than the usual facts and figures and I think KT does a great job at this. The quirky little details mixed amongst the rest of it are what make it (for me at least) an entertaining and interesting read.

I don't dispute that Katie's blog has value; clearly the show of support on this thread proves that.

What I dispute is the way her posts are put alongside news items in a manner that makes her posts seem like news items. I'm sure I'm not the only one who comes across a rambling post and wonder: huh? (I think, anyway - it's hard to tell with some of the uncivil insults flying around from people).

Your argument for separating it from the main articles isn't particularly strong either. Sure the blog may be more prominent, but that doesn't mean someone is standing there forcing you to read it.

No, no one is forcing me to read it, but I feel compelled to read it because it's posted along with every other iPhone headline.

At some point, I will have trained myself to actively look to make sure that the post isn't by her, but even that requires more work as there is nothing in the headline of the post (at least when you're reading it via RSS feed) that indicates that it is commentary, not news or a rumor.

[njmac]

I would like to see Katie post more. I was expecting to see 2-3 posts a day on her blog but its not like I'm upset about it.

I like Katie's style and I am looking forward to what she has to say.

I'm a little surprised at the people who don't think it was fair that KT was compensated :confused:

Do you guys also believe that Arn does not make money off this site? Do you think your contributions help with hosting fees or something?

I do NOT know or care how much Macrumors makes but if Arn feels he wants to start paying to make certain aspects of the site more interesting, then its coming out of his pocket. I doubt he would have hired someone to write for macrumors if he didn't think it would benefit the members. Give him some credit.

[fistful]

Why doesn't everyone just **** and fight already? Quit with the talk, let's see some fists flying.

Alright buddy, you asked for it, your smoke is going in the drink. *thwack*
78672

[arn]

Ok guys...

After reading through this all I see where the issues are stemming from. I had heard that people were angry/unhappy about someone getting an iPhone from MacRumors but I didn't understand where that anger was coming from... but I think I see now.

Revealing Katie's compensation was a conscious decision because I thought it would make for a more interesting experience overall. Which i guess was true. :) Since I did publicly reveal it, I guess I should reveal the entirety of the terms, so people don't feel like it's a one time fee.

Katie's terms are as follows: She gets a phone + service to provide her blog services with a minimum of 5 posts a week (that number chosen by me). If she blogs for 6 months, she retains ownership of the phone. If we stop before that, MacRumors regains ownership of the phone. Either side can cancel at any time. This is a long term plan, and not a $700 one-time review that some people have suggested.

Katie was chosen specifically for her writing style. The intent was not to be technical/factual, but more of a personal ongoing blog. The goal of the iPhone Blog in general was to be more casual / fun than the main site.

I'm sorry it generated animosity amongst some of the regulars. Obviously, that wasn't my intent. I've very much see this as an experiement for trying to expand some of the content on the site. It's still very early, and I think we'll have to wait and see how it turns out.

arn

[bartelby]

Reading some of these posts most seem to smack of jealously and rants of children.

KT is doing a fine job as far as I'm concerned. Her style is great and compliments the MR News sections very well.

Keep up the good work Miss KT.

[zflauaus]

~snip arn's big post~
Thank you very, VERY much for ending all this speculation. Now that all you "bashers" see the whole story, maybe you'll take all this down a notch.

Once again, thanks arn.

[Markleshark]

Ok, before I respond to the post below let me say I was a bit shocked and a little peeved about the whole deal when I first heard about it for a few reasons;

First off I thought it was a bad use of MR funds and while its not my site and I have no say in what gets spent where, it seemed a bit odd that MR would pay upwards of $2k total for an iPhone + service for a member to blog about when there are probably thousands of other MR members who blog and have already got an iPhone with their own money. If MR can afford to give a $2k+ gift to someone then they certainly don't need the $25 they get from demis. I paid $25 to support the site every year and that wasn't intended to give someone a handout like this.

Nothing against Katie here, she's doing a fine job with what was offered to her, I more object to the deal itself.

I, for one, am glad someone could get across that point, the one I was thinking, without attacking Katie personally. When I paid my $25 yes it was mainly for the banter and the PF but I guessed it would also help with the server and the likes, and the time put in by everyone. But I guess not. In my experience, 'popular' sites not selling anything cost money to run, I've never had one make money. Guess my experience was wrong.

No one has anything against her personally, which I think is very important everyone realizes.

Maybe making the details of the deal public was not the best of ideas, but hey, I guess we've learned for next time. :) Onwards and upwards.

[rdowns]

I'm astounded by the jealousy shown by so many posters in this thread. You didn't get a free iPhone, get over it.

As for the contributors, why do you feel your measly $25 (not to minimize that the $25 gets you quite a few nice perks) entitles you to a say in how Arn runs his site? While Arn has always been responsive to criticism and suggestions, it is his site and he is free to do as he sees fit.

Why did Arn do this? I'm sure he has several reasons why he thought this would be a good idea. Drive traffic to the site is certainly one. Maybe driving non technical traffic, that would otherwise not end up here, with a different style of reporting on the iPhone.

As for KT, keep doing what you're doing.

[sillycybin]

jealousy?

not for me. my original post that caused the split in threads was not jealousy based. I could have bought iPhones for three days straight but didnt. I even had an 8gig model NIB in my hand and decided not to buy it but to wait and see how people were doing with the rev A iPhones.

that is what i use MR for, to see how new products are working in RL. To see what problems are occuring, and to see when a product is ready for me to purchase is why i come to MR. I dont use this place as a social gathering, I use it for its original function, Mac rumors and information.

So when I come here and goto the iPhone section to see whats happening, KTs post is front and center and in my face telling me to read it. When i read it, it is filled with much more stuff than iPhone iformation. I want to know what the issue is that she is having and how people are fixing it. not a story about her lunch break and her issues with mall society.

no jealousy, just annoyance at the JUNK surrounding the information that i am trying to receive.

[bartelby]

no jealousy, just annoyance at the JUNK surrounding the information that i am trying to receive.

I thought it was pretty clear from the "Say Hello to Katie" post that it wasn't going to be an indepth detailed expose on the iPhone. But more of a "living with an iPhone" type blog.

There are hundreds of websites out there with all the information you want on.

Just because the blog isn't what you expected doesn't justify you calling it junk.

[rdowns]

no jealousy, just annoyance at the JUNK surrounding the information that i am trying to receive.

Why didn't you say so. Ignore the iPhone tab atop the forum and go here

http://forums.macrumors.com/forumdisplay.php?f=103

[sillycybin]

I thought it was pretty clear from the "Say Hello to Katie" post that it wasn't going to be an indepth detailed expose on the iPhone. But more of a "living with an iPhone" type blog.

There are hundreds of websites out there with all the information you want on.

Just because the blog isn't what you expected doesn't justify you calling it junk.


I didnt read the "Say Hello to Katie" post, i want particularly interested in meeting her condidering all the iPhone hype that I WAS interested in so...
and...
I dont think telling people to visit other sites is what ARN had as an intention. nor do i think he really wants people to make that kind of suggestion. I think the more readers that use MR instead of all those 'other' sites, the better for MR. Wouldnt you agree?
and i didnt call the blog junk, i called to banter surrounding the important information junk. which it is. I called to blog a 'turn off', which it also is.

[Peace]

arn you do know you had no obligation to disclose any terms you have made with anyone.Contributors arn't board members.We're frackin "contributors".

Look the definition up in the widget folks.

I've been a contributor for 3 years now and I could care less how arn spends his money.As a matter of fact I don't feel it's any of my business.I get ad-free viewing and that's good enough for me.If arn wants to go out and buy 3 beemers that's his choice.To make arn come in here and explain his reasoning is a reflection of a greedy society.

Remember..Money isn't the root of evil.The "LOVE" of money is.

Delete this post if you will but some of you people do not belong here if you have the kind of attitude shown here over the past couple days.
Do you realize how KT must feel about now? DO YOU?.Do you even care?

[unsubscribe]

[zach]

I was going to just delete this for being insulting, but I think it's best to reply to it.

This was not an example of devilot being mysterious and misleading people. Her point is simply that Arn and whomever he has compensated are the only ones who know of it, with the one exception, obviously, being KT. It's not like there's some big moderator thread where we all laugh about the perks we get and then hide them from everyone else. KT was obviously compensated. That does not mean she was the only one in the history of MR to ever receive anything from Arn. If anyone else has, they haven't gone public with it. The fact that you all know people who were not compensated isn't sufficient proof that KT is the only one who ever was.

It's Arn's site and Arn's money. If he decided to make KT the first ever paid MR member, fine. If others have received compensation before, fine. KT's signed up for a two-year stint at a pay of about $3/day, all told. It's not exactly like she's yachting with the Sultan now.

The people who know the full details of the arrangement are Arn and KT. Not the rest of us. She's got over 700 days before the contract runs out. Perhaps by then, you'll have more to criticize than the simple fact that Arn bought her a phone and she hasn't posted a lot yet.

if you actually read my post, you'd notice that i say nothing at all about kt. nor do i have any problem with kt getting bought a phone, i never complained about that, and never will.

[nbs2]

OK, this is the third time I've walked in here and seen people going back and forth. What is wrong with you people? How hard is it to provide constructive feedback (either positive or negative) without taking a dig at those who feel differently?

There have been more than a handful of attempts to get everybody back on track, giving feedback on the blog. BV imposed a cooling off. Arn came in here and explained the terms and conditions of the contract (the nerd in me would love to see the actual contract - I can just hear my wife "You are such an attorney"). But, it seems like nothing calms people down.

As Deputy Fife might say, "Gee, Andy, I think maybe we ought to shut down the whole gosh-darned thread if these folks can't learn to get along. We could, you know, start over fresh, and just delete anything that is rude. Whaddayathink?" Normally Andy would let things work themselves out, but this time I don't think they will.

[Turkish]

I can't believe you people are still talking about this.

[sillycybin]

Do you realize how KT must feel about now? DO YOU?.Do you even care?

[unsubscribe]

if i was her, i wouldnt care. I'd probably be laughing at every neg post as I read it on my free iPhone.

[jsw]

if you actually read my post, you'd notice that i say nothing at all about kt. nor do i have any problem with kt getting bought a phone, i never complained about that, and never will.
If you actually read my post, you'd see that I wasn't taking issue with a perceived insult to KT.

[calculus]

So, from I what I can make out, some people like Katie's blog and some people don't. Well there's a thing...

Can't we just leave it at that?

[jsw]

there seems to be three core issues here

1. katie getting a "free" iphone to blog about. in my opinion this is an irrelevant issue since ultimately its between katie and arn. if you are jealous because someone got something you did not, then you have a lot of growing up to do. and when you do the math, she is essentially being paid $2000 for 2 years worth of blogging. 5 posts per week x 52 weeks x 2 years = 520 posts/$2000 = $3.85 per post. that is really, REALLY crappy pay. so stop complaining about it, and as a contributor, if you do not like where your money goes, then stop contributing. my understanding is that you do not get to decide how your money is spent when you send it to arn.

2. the quality of the posts on the blog. my opinion is that the blog is not really very well written. i understand what it is trying to do and i have no problem with a counterpoint to the more traditional "tech blog" stuff you normally see. i feel her prose is poorly constructed and what she is trying to communicate is not getting through very well. I think it would be good to look at bloggers like Jade from Arstechnica and DrunkenBatman who both can mix humor/anecdote/wit with factual stuff in a way that i think this blog is aspiring to do. i think it is reasonable to allow katie to grow into that kind of writing, but i also think it is reasonable to allow those who read the blog of someone who is being paid to blog to criticize it and to expect a certain level of writing from the getgo.

3. people being annoyed at people not liking the blog. last time i checked, people are entitled to their opinions. and the whole "you do not like it, don't read it" argument is simply foolish and skirts the issue that not everyone is gonna like everything. i do think that attacks on katie are absolutely unwarranted and should be immediately deleted, however i think critique is valuable to katie and the community in general.
So, from I what I can make out, some people like Katie's blog and some people don't. Well there's a thing...

Can't we just leave it at that?I think that's an excellent way to end this.