MacRumors Demi-God

[cmcbridejr]

This question may have already been asked, but I could not find an answer.

I understand that MacRumors forum users are "promoted" (Demi-God, Member, Regular, Newbie, etc.) by the number of total posts that they make.

How come some users are listed as Demi-Gods, but have only recently joined the forums and have minimal postings?

Do some people pay money to MacRumors to become Demi-Gods without posting?

Thanks in advance.

[bartelby]

Demi-gods help fund the site by paying an annual subscription.

[riscy]

Yes, if you contribute you can have a title as you said - I read it somewhere once.

[leekohler]

This question may have already been asked, but I could not find an answer.

I understand that MacRumors forum users are "promoted" (Demi-God, Member, Regular, Newbie, etc.) by the number of total posts that they make.

How come some users are listed as Demi-Gods, but have only recently joined the forums and have minimal postings?

Do some people pay money to MacRumors to become Demi-Gods without posting?

Thanks in advance.

"Demi-God" denotes contributor status. In other words, the name is given to people who donate to the site.

[Eraserhead]

You can't become a demi-god by posting a lot of posts, you have to pay.

See Demi God

[Eidorian]

I wouldn't trust the Demi-God title as being indicative of the user's experience. I've run into quite a few newbie Demi-Gods.

[cmcbridejr]

I am sure that it is probably easy to find this information out, but I was hoping that you might be able to point me into the right direction.

Where can I find out about subscriptions and how much they cost? Also, what does a MacRumors subscription entitle you to?

Thanks for the quick reply.

[bartelby]

It's here (http://guides.macrumors.com/Help:MacRumors_FAQ#How_do_I_contribute_to_MacRumors.com.3F) in the MR FAQs

[OllyW]

I am sure that it is probably easy to find this information out, but I was hoping that you might be able to point me into the right direction.

Where can I find out about subscriptions and how much they cost? Also, what does a MacRumors subscription entitle you to?

Thanks for the quick reply.

Here you go (http://guides.macrumors.com/Help:MacRumors_FAQ#How_do_I_contribute_to_MacRumors.com.3F) :)

[cmcbridejr]

Wow!

Y'all are quick.

Thank you.

Is the founder of MacRumors French or something?

Why the word Demi? I don't hear that term often.

[Eidorian]

Wow!

Y'all are quick.

Thank you.

Is the founder of MacRumors French or something?

Why the word Demi? I don't hear that term often.http://guides.macrumors.com/Help:MacRumors_FAQ#How_do_user_titles_work.3F

Some of us use Forum Spy and thread subscriptions in tandem.

[cmcbridejr]

http://guides.macrumors.com/Help:MacRumors_FAQ#How_do_user_titles_work.3F

Some of us use Forum Spy and thread subscriptions in tandem.

Thanks for pointing me to this.

Do you think that Intel processors will be titles one day as the site and user post count expand? I guess anything is possible.

[Eidorian]

Thanks for pointing me to this.

Do you think that Intel processors will be titles one day as the site and user post count expand? I guess anything is possible.There aren't many high post count users that aren't staff or contributors anymore.

[cmcbridejr]

There aren't many high post count users that aren't staff or contributors anymore.

Why do you think that is? Do they eventually get banned or get tired of using the site and move on?

[MacNut]

Why do you think that is? Do they eventually get banned or get tired of using the site and move on?Mad Jew is the highest poster with over 32,000. People are not allowed to spam, they have to have some sort of useful content. A lot of people have moved on but as the site grows new members take their place.

[Much Ado]

Demi-gods help fund the site by paying an annual subscription.

Is it known the extent to which donations fund the site (approx)?

[MacNut]

Is it known the extent to which donations fund the site (approx)?Count the number of demi's multiply by $25 a year. Arn is the only one that really knows.

[cmcbridejr]

I just checked out Mad Jew's public profile.

My goodness!!! That guy has an average of over 21 posts per day for 4 years straight. Where does he find the time? Is he an administrator or owner of MacRumors?

[MacNut]

I just checked out Mad Jew's public profile.

My goodness!!! That guy has an average of over 21 posts per day for 4 years straight. Where does he find the time? Is he an administrator or owner of MacRumors?Mad Jew was just a very helpful member, then he was made a Moderator.

[hulugu]

Wow!

Y'all are quick.

Thank you.

Is the founder of MacRumors French or something?

Why the word Demi? I don't hear that term often.

Demigod refers to minor or half-gods in mythology. Often mortal, but preeminent in some way. Gilgamesh, for example, is often considered a demigod. The Greek myths are littered with demigods and goddesses, as well.

Wiki link (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demigod).

Gods are the administrators of the site.

[Eidorian]

I just checked out Mad Jew's public profile.

My goodness!!! That guy has an average of over 21 posts per day for 4 years straight. Where does he find the time? Is he an administrator or owner of MacRumors?Given my observations of trends via Forum Spy when mad jew was an active user they would post in many threads across the boards here on MacRumors. The majority of their posts would be in threads with few or no replies in order to help the original poster reach a resolution.

I strongly suggest that you build a strong buddy list, use Thread Subscriptions, and then Forum Spy. All these tools make it easy to track a thread that might interest you given your buddy's posts.

[Much Ado]

Count the number of demi's multiply by $25 a year.

What about ads? They must count for a lot given the enormous traffic the site gets these days.

Doesn't really matter, just curious.

[cmcbridejr]

Given my observations of trends via Forum Spy when mad jew was an active user they would post in many threads across the boards here on MacRumors. The majority of their posts would be in threads with few or no replies in order to help the original poster reach a resolution.

I strongly suggest that you build a strong buddy list, use Thread Subscriptions, and then Forum Spy. All these tools make it easy to track a thread that might interest you given your buddy's posts.

I already use Thread Subscriptions. However, thanks for letting me know about Forum Spy.

I always thought Forum Spy was there to report abuse or spammers, so I never clicked the link. I get it now.

To go a little off topic... why does the Thread Subscription for this particular thread list no view count? All of my other threads have views and post count.

[MacNut]

What about ads? They must count for a lot given the enormous traffic the site gets these days.

Doesn't really matter, just curious.Im sure the ad's supply a good amount or revenue. I don't think Arn has ever made the numbers public, and he doesn't have too. None of our business really.

[Eidorian]

To go a little off topic... why does the Thread Subscription for this particular thread list no view count? All of my other threads have views and post count.The view count in thread subscriptions takes longer to update.

[Eraserhead]

I always thought Forum Spy was there to report abuse or spammers,

You click on the /!\ next to each post to do that ;).

[Cheffy Dave]

Wow!


Thank you.

Is the founder of MacRumors French or something?

Why the word Demi? I don't hear that term often.

Y'all are quick.
That's why it's the best Mac site around, I spend more time here than I care to admit, but I have learned so much!

[Doctor Q]

You click on the /!\ next to each post to do that ;).Nice simulated Report Post icon, Eraserhead!

[MacNut]

Nice simulated Report Post icon, Eraserhead!I know there are image tags for that icon but where are they. It could come in useful.

[iJohnHenry]

http://images.macrumors.com/vb/images/buttons/report.gif

[MacDawg]

I tend to report about as many posts as I make :o

Sometimes I wonder if maybe I am a pest in that regard, but the posts I report are usually deleted or the thread is wastelanded, so maybe not.

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

[MacNut]

I tend to report about as many posts as I make :o

Sometimes I wonder if maybe I am a pest in that regard, but the posts I report are usually deleted or the thread is wastelanded, so maybe not.Maybe you are a black widow.:p

[techlover828]

this thread is about how macrumor's is worth $85! :eek:

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=461382

Given my observations of trends via Forum Spy when mad jew was an active user they would post in many threads across the boards here on MacRumors. The majority of their posts would be in threads with few or no replies in order to help the original poster reach a resolution.

I strongly suggest that you build a strong buddy list, use Thread Subscriptions, and then Forum Spy. All these tools make it easy to track a thread that might interest you given your buddy's posts.

you make it sound like he's more than one person?:confused:

[mad jew]

Given my observations of trends via Forum Spy when mad jew was an active user they would post in many threads across the boards here on MacRumors. The majority of their posts would be in threads with few or no replies in order to help the original poster reach a resolution.

I strongly suggest that you build a strong buddy list, use Thread Subscriptions, and then Forum Spy. All these tools make it easy to track a thread that might interest you given your buddy's posts.


you make it sound like he's more than one person?:confused:


Yeah mate, there's only one of me. I promise!

In all honesty, I think the fact I live in a different time zone to the majority of you has helped (or worsened) my post count over the years. I do try to post in 'fresh' threads. There are a lot of unanswered questions out there. I've got more and more commitments nowadays so if anyone wants to take over the permission repairing crown, feel free... :)

[Sun Baked]

Yeah mate, there's only one of me. I promise!

In all honesty, I think the fact I live in a different time zone to the majority of you has helped (or worsened) my post count over the years. I do try to post in 'fresh' threads. There are a lot of unanswered questions out there. I've got more and more commitments nowadays so if anyone wants to take over the permission repairing crown, feel free... :)

It's just the 6 arms you are typing with that freaks us out. :p

[Eidorian]

I think we can all replicate the helpfulness and number of posts that mad jew can. There's just no need for all of us to do so. ;)

you make it sound like he's more than one person?:confused:You should watch user trends in Forum Spy. When someone posts a lot you notice.

[mad jew]

It's just the 6 arms you are typing with that freaks us out. :p


Mate, only four of them are arms. :o


I think we can all replicate the helpfulness and number of posts that mad jew can. There's just no need for all of us to do so. ;)


There're still a lot of misaligned permissions out there... ;)

[EricNau]

And this topic comes up once again...

Perhaps it would be less confusing if the Demi-God title was reserved for Moderators, while Contributor became the sole title for those who have made a donation.

I know some would consider this change unfavorable (certainly those who prefer the Demi-God title), but it's clearly very confusing for new members who are unfamiliar with the system.

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


Currently, new members may believe that Demi-Gods are moderators or owners of the site, or otherwise more qualified to answer users questions. This can lead to a poor experience for new members (at the most impressionable time), and on occasion can reflect poorly on the site when new members mistakenly believe that a moderator is being rude or breaking forum rules.

Just an idea I thought I'd throw out there... :)

[MacDawg]

And this topic comes up once again...

Perhaps it would be less confusing if the Demi-God title was reserved for Moderators, while Contributor became the sole title for those who have made a donation.

I know some would consider this change unfavorable (certainly those who prefer the Demi-God title), but it's clearly very confusing for new members who are unfamiliar with the system.

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


Currently, new members may believe that Demi-Gods are moderators or owners of the site, or otherwise more qualified to answer users questions. This can lead to a poor experience for new members (at the most impressionable time), and on occasion can reflect poorly on the site when new members mistakenly believe that a moderator is being rude or breaking forum rules.

Just an idea I thought I'd throw out there... :)


As a "Contributor" it wouldn't bother me! ;)

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

[iPhil]

And this topic comes up once again...

Perhaps it would be less confusing if the Demi-God title was reserved for Moderators, while Contributor became the sole title for those who have made a donation.

I know some would consider this change unfavorable (certainly those who prefer the Demi-God title), but it's clearly very confusing for new members who are unfamiliar with the system.

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


Currently, new members may believe that Demi-Gods are moderators or owners of the site, or otherwise more qualified to answer users questions. This can lead to a poor experience for new members (at the most impressionable time), and on occasion can reflect poorly on the site when new members mistakenly believe that a moderator is being rude or breaking forum rules.

Just an idea I thought I'd throw out there... :)



Well i like it as is.. :p :cool:

Site Administrators - MacRumors God

Demi-God (Moderator) << here say's Moderator

Contributor (paid the fee ($25) - has several choices for the user: Contributor / Demi-god /Demi-goddess etc ..

[CalBoy]

Perhaps it would be less confusing if the Demi-God title was reserved for Moderators, while Contributor became the sole title for those who have made a donation.

I know some would consider this change unfavorable (certainly those who prefer the Demi-God title), but it's clearly very confusing for new members who are unfamiliar with the system.

On the other hand, there is a very nice FAQ page about this, and one could reason that if there was confusion, that would be the first place to look. ;)

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


Of course then we'll have threads wondering if "Contributor" means that that person writes stories for the front page.

Currently, new members may believe that Demi-Gods are moderators or owners of the site, or otherwise more qualified to answer users questions. This can lead to a poor experience for new members (at the most impressionable time), and on occasion can reflect poorly on the site when new members mistakenly believe that a moderator is being rude or breaking forum rules.

Just an idea I thought I'd throw out there... :)

The (Moderator) title makes things pretty clear I think. If someone is willing to judge the entire community based on the response they receive from one demi-god, and they have simultaneously decided not to read the FAQ, then perhaps they deserve the fate they bring upon themselves.

Besides, aside from the occasional fluke, most demis aren't going to be blatantly rude because they know the importance of the site and its on-going success (hence why they contribute). There are only a handful of truly rude and unhelpful members on MR anyways, and I doubt the preponderance of them are going to be demis (especially considering the investment demis have put into the site in monetary and temporal terms).

[Chundles]

Can I change my status to "Mad Lad"? Getting tired of Demi-God...

[Queso]

As a "Contributor" it wouldn't bother me! ;)

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif
All the cool kids are Contributors these days :cool:

[spooky mulder]

my "newbie" question is.... how do you become a moderator? just asking, don't really want to be one, but how does that happen? Any moderators want to respond. Thanks.... " An :apple: A Day Will Keep The Doctor Away"

[xUKHCx]

my "newbie" question is.... how do you become a moderator? just asking, don't really want to be one, but how does that happen? Any moderators want to respond. Thanks....

I was apart of the last intake so don't fully know how I was choosen. I got asked via PM if I would consider being a moderator.

The topic was discussed a couple of months back

Who decides who is a moderator?

With the most reasoned respost coming from Blue Velvet (a mod)

This is how it works:

The mods have a long long discussion on who to bring on board. Dozens of names are mentioned; people who have helped the community in one way or the other and also those who are active in the time zones that the gods feel we need. We talk about them in great detail.

We then narrow it down, the gods including Arn chip in. And then we invite a number that is established at the beginning, some accept, others decline.

We then move that discussion away so that the new mods aren't upset or surprised by what we've said; it's happened to us all... and then the new mods are bought on board days or weeks before they pick up their new responsibilities.

Some things are secret; some things should be clear and above board, we shouldn't be that mysterious. New mods can have low post counts, they can have high ones; it doesn't matter. Personally, I have no idea why I was invited to become a moderator, but the why doesn't interest me. What interests me is what I can do with the tools I've been given.

Want to be a mod? Be a good forum member... but it's not a walk in the park, mods are people too, they have other lives, they get annoyed with some of you, they need time off, they want this board to be the best it can be so anyone who makes work for us isn't making the best start of things.

That's about it really. It's not a popularity contest, it's not about who has the most posts... it's about those who want to make a difference.

:)

[asrmatt]

I was apart of the last intake so don't fully know how I was choosen.

...and even if I madly hate you because you are a Lazio fan :eek:... I think you're doing a great job ;)

[cmcbridejr]

And this topic comes up once again...

Perhaps it would be less confusing if the Demi-God title was reserved for Moderators, while Contributor became the sole title for those who have made a donation.

I know some would consider this change unfavorable (certainly those who prefer the Demi-God title), but it's clearly very confusing for new members who are unfamiliar with the system.

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


Currently, new members may believe that Demi-Gods are moderators or owners of the site, or otherwise more qualified to answer users questions. This can lead to a poor experience for new members (at the most impressionable time), and on occasion can reflect poorly on the site when new members mistakenly believe that a moderator is being rude or breaking forum rules.

Just an idea I thought I'd throw out there... :)

Though I am just a lowly MacRumors Regular, I second that.

I think that makes much more sense.

When I first joined MacRumors, I read some posts by Demi-Gods that made me wonder why they were even considered to be half of a God (since I thought that they were administrators).

To me, a God on a website is someone who would exhibit an all encompassing knowledge and has fewer restrictions than regular users.

Is it too late to change? I guess it may make a lot of Demi-Gods mad if they lost their beloved title that they paid for.

[Eraserhead]

Nice simulated Report Post icon, Eraserhead!

Thanks :)

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number


++, this sounds like a good proposal.

Of course then we'll have threads wondering if "Contributor" means that that person writes stories for the front page.

Well otherwise the only solution is to call the moderators just Moderator, which is a little boring. And there are only two members Longofest and Arn who write for the front page so that would be less of an issue.

Additionally lots of sites have paid sections which you have to pay to be a member of so it is fairly standard.

[asrmatt]

It would make so much sense:

Site Administrators = MacRumors God
Moderators = Demi-God
Donators = Contributor
Everyone else = processor number




This gets my vote too.
Definitely makes sense and clears some misunderstandings...

[xUKHCx]

Well otherwise the only solution is to call the moderators just Moderator, which is a little boring.

What about the female moderators/contributers

And there are only two members Longofest and Arn who write for the front page so that would be less of an issue.

Apple's 1Q 2008 U.S. Market Share Up from 2007 (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/04/16/apples-1q-2008-u-s-market-share-up-from-2007/) written by WildCowboy
MacRumors Celebrates Eighth Birthday, Over Five Million Forum Posts (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/02/23/macrumors-celebrates-eighth-birthday-over-five-million-forum-posts/) Written by Doctor Q
Mac OS X (Leopard) 10.5.2 Update Released (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/02/11/os-x-10-5-2-released/) Written by Mudbug
Apple Announces Pink iPod nano (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/01/22/apple-announces-pink-ipod-nano/) Written by Knox
Going back some NeXT Information Archive (http://www.macrumors.com/2002/04/19/next-information-archive/) Written by Blakespot

[Eraserhead]

What about the female moderators/contributers

Female moderators would be able to be "Demi Goddesses", hmm you do have a point about female contributors wanting to show their gender though...

[mkrishnan]

Female moderators would be able to be "Demi Goddesses", hmm you do have a point about female contributors wanting to show their gender though...

I think it's fine the way it is, but I just wanted to point out... Macrumors members at all levels have various ways to reveal their gender if they choose to do so. They may put a reference to their gender in their signature, in their user name, in their avatar, etc, etc.

It's also important to remember that, aside from discussion of the lore or traditions of Macrumors (for which join date, level of activity, etc, play a strong role), enforcing our existing rules (which is the domain of us moderators and the administrators), and adjusting the future policy / direction of MR (which is the domain of the administrators), you should be judging information by its merits, and not by the status of the poster. Demis or 601's don't know that much more about when Apple will release its next product than you do. I learned almost everything I know about jailbreaking my iPhone from people whose status is at the newbie or member level. When it came to that topic, when I got an iPhone a few weeks ago, *I* was the n00b.

[Eraserhead]

I think it's fine the way it is,

Members apparently getting confused between Demi Gods and moderators as has been pointed out in this thread:

When I first joined MacRumors, I read some posts by Demi-Gods that made me wonder why they were even considered to be half of a God (since I thought that they were administrators).

To me that means there is an issue with the current system, as it means they think people who have just contributed to the site have way more power and influence than they actually do, if that gives you more work then making this change seems worthwhile.

you should be judging information by its merits, and not by the status of the poster.

That is hard though if you aren't particularly confident on the internet.

[mkrishnan]

To me that means there is an issue with the current system [...]

I'm not disagreeing that someone had an issue. I'm disagreeing that a change should be made as a result. A user earnestly requested not too long ago that all the status names be changed to Digimon characters. In his/her mind, I'm sure the reasoning behind this move was unassailable. I don't care to see that happen either. :p

To me, the user level names are fanciful, and they're part of the culture of Macrumors. Various aspects of our culture sometimes run afoul of new users -- I was quite surprised for instance by the negative reaction that our latest April Fools joke, which to me was very innocuous, received. But any culture coalesces around the styles of its most engaged members, and thereby inevitably estranges some people whose personalities clash with it. I don't think there's anything that can be done about that, or that anything should be done about that. When the culture seriously wrongs, this is a matter of great concern. But the MR culture is not banning people because they use Windows or promoting racial, religious, or sexual intolerance. In the scheme of things, I think this is trivial.

That is hard though if you aren't particularly confident on the internet.

This is true, but the general unreliability of information on the internet is not a factor that is likely to change anytime in the near future, is it? Even our official rumors only sometimes come true, and even then only partially.

That's a fact of life. If a Demi usurps the role of a moderator or administrator, e.g. by dictating rules of behavior to other members, this should be reported. Otherwise, everyone on the internet, newbie or not, needs to be selective in their intake of information, regardless of source, because the internet is full of half-truths and mostly-lies.

[JNB]

Call me what you will, just don't call me late for dinner.

I believe this is really a non-issue; I don't get a sense of problems with titular confusion, nor do I think that this is representative of a trend. Most folks posting questions are still "watched over" by the community at large, so if an errant member, Demi- or otherwise, gives bad information or otherwise acts a fool, corrective action is usually not far behind.

I certainly didn't donate to get the title (and honestly was a little embarrassed by it at first), and what notation is added is ultimately immaterial to the reasons I did contribute.

[Eraserhead]

I believe this is really a non-issue;

While you and mkrishnan have a good point. This seems to come up far too often for a "non-issue". This isn't PRSI :p.

[bigandy]

This seems to come up far too often for a "non-issue".

That's because people don't read the forum rules/FAQs etc when they join, or even the links at the top of this subforum's page before they post.

[Hankster]

I just checked out Mad Jew's public profile.

My goodness!!! That guy has an average of over 21 posts per day for 4 years straight. Where does he find the time? Is he an administrator or owner of MacRumors?

Hey! BACK OFF HE'S MINE!!! :mad::mad::mad:

[MacNut]

That's because people don't read the forum rules/FAQs etc when they join, or even the links at the top of this subforum's page before they post.An that is the main problem, people don't read the rules before posting. About 50% of these threads would not exist if people actually read the faqs. We could change every single rule and dumb it down and someone would still ask what does that mean.

[Eidorian]

An that is the main problem, people don't read the rules before posting. About 50% of these threads would not exist if people actually read the faqs.Or did a Google search...

[MacNut]

Or did a Google search...Google is only as good as what you type into it. If they don't know what they want they won't get a valid response.

[Eraserhead]

That's because people don't read the forum rules/FAQs etc when they join, or even the links at the top of this subforum's page before they post.

An that is the main problem, people don't read the rules before posting. About 50% of these threads would not exist if people actually read the faqs. We could change every single rule and dumb it down and someone would still ask what does that mean.

Is it really reasonable to expect people to read the rules though?

In UK law any contract has to be "reasonable" so the rules couldn't involve having to give up your first born to the moderators if you post. As the rules sum up to "behave in a mature and adult way" and "follow what other posters do", so rankly you shouldn't need to read them. Of course they are needed, but purely so we are all on the same page as to what that means. On the same line I don't read the rules before I go to a club or bar for example, and I shouldn't have to.

[MacNut]

I don't think the rules are that bad that bad that you need a lawyer present before you post. The FAQs easily enough describe what the user titles mean and now to attain them. They are not being hidden away where nobody can find them. I have always wanted anyone who signs up to have to read and understand the rules and click I agree before being allowed to post. It would make the site more enjoyable for everyone.

[Eraserhead]

I don't think the rules are that bad that bad that you need a lawyer present before you post.

True they are understandable.

I have always wanted anyone who signs up to have to read and understand the rules and click I agree before being allowed to post. It would make the site more enjoyable for everyone.

But how do you check they've read them, ask exam questions on them :p, otherwise its like reading the iTunes EULA, which I'm sure noone has ever read.

[MacNut]

True they are understandable.



But how do you check they've read them, ask exam questions on them :p, otherwise its like reading the iTunes EULA, which I'm sure noone has ever done.When someone asks a stupid question and then you say well didn't you read the rules before signing up. They say no I skimmed past it, well who's fault was that for not reading it.

Better yet, put a time limit before you can click I agree, if they just skim past it in 5 seconds we know they didn't read it.

[Eidorian]

Google is only as good as what you type into it. If they don't know what they want they won't get a valid response.Isn't that what a keyword search is for?

Then again I've myself doing the brunt of research for a lot of people.

[don't do it]

is there a way to read the rules again so i don't ask stupid questions like this one?

[mkrishnan]

is there a way to read the rules again so i don't ask stupid questions like this one?

If you look at the top of every forum page, underneath the MR logo, you'll find a link to the FAQs and Rules pages. ;)

[don't do it]

Thanks ya now i feel stupid :p Thats not completely obvious. Ok i'll check that out :apple:

Ok tried it and now my computer is junking around and going there then loading and reloading and reloading ect. it won't show me the site.

Ok I figured out how to get it to work i just stopped it in the middle of loading and read it so thanks.

[cmcbridejr]

Hey! BACK OFF HE'S MINE!!! :mad::mad::mad:

What's your problem?

Or did a Google search...

How do you think Google works?

Google does not magically have all the answers. Google merely helps find the answers to questions that have already been answered in postings. On top of that, there are a hundred ways to ask a question, especially when there can be so many contributing variables.

[iJohnHenry]

A new question.

I see in the FAQ that "regular" users can't post a poll, even in the hotsy-totsy PRSI forum.

Why?? It could be subject to review first, as allowed within VB.

[WildCowboy]

I see in the FAQ that "regular" users can't post a poll, even in the hotsy-totsy PRSI forum.

Why?? It could be subject to review first, as allowed within VB.

If you're specifically talking about the MacPolls.com (http://forums.macrumors.com/forumdisplay.php?f=38) forum, you are correct...much like the news forums here, it is reserved for threads linked to official polls through our macpolls.com site. You are certainly welcome to submit a poll for consideration there.

But regular users are also welcome to start thread-related polls in just about any other forum (including PRSI).

[psychofreak]

How do you think Google works?

Google does not magically have all the answers. Google merely helps find the answers to questions that have already been answered in postings. On top of that, there are a hundred ways to ask a question, especially when there can be so many contributing variables.I typed in the thread title you put in and the third result (the first was this thread, the second was the Members List) was the FAQ.

http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=macrumors%20demi%20god

[cmcbridejr]

I typed in the thread title you put in and the third result (the first was this thread, the second was the Members List) was the FAQ.

http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=macrumors%20demi%20god

Thanks a lot. I guess Google is magical.

Also, I think it is funny that next to the description of Demi-God it has contributor in parenthesis. So, shouldn't they just be called a "contributor"? I guess this is why a few of us are confused about what a Demi-God is.

[NC MacGuy]

I speak of a power greater than anyone or any collection of mortals. The Great Google Itself, the true-born Son of the Great and Wonderful Collective. For it is written: From all that was, which was nothing; null, has come all that is, and all that shall ever be. Amen.

From another thread.

[mkrishnan]

From another thread.

Google may make all known unto you, but...

http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/funny-pictures-cat-sign-jesus.jpg

(hopefully not offensive? I'll gladly remove it on request.)

[NC MacGuy]

^:D

Hopefully people have a sense of humor.

[mad jew]

I don't see why it's important to portray gender in a title. I like the mystery. For all you know, I could be a boy...


Can I change my status to "Mad Lad"? Getting tired of Demi-God...


...But people might start thinking you're the product of my seed.

[EricNau]

On the other hand, there is a very nice FAQ page about this, and one could reason that if there was confusion, that would be the first place to look. ;)

...

The (Moderator) title makes things pretty clear I think. If someone is willing to judge the entire community based on the response they receive from one demi-god, and they have simultaneously decided not to read the FAQ, then perhaps they deserve the fate they bring upon themselves.

Besides, aside from the occasional fluke, most demis aren't going to be blatantly rude because they know the importance of the site and its on-going success (hence why they contribute). There are only a handful of truly rude and unhelpful members on MR anyways, and I doubt the preponderance of them are going to be demis (especially considering the investment demis have put into the site in monetary and temporal terms).
Keep in mind, this may not be a subject most new users would think of looking up in the FAQs, because many of them will feel that "obviously" the Demi-Gods are specially chosen in some way. Likewise, when reading through the FAQ upon their joining the community, they may not notice the section addressing user titles as they have yet to see them in "the real world."

Also, this really isn't just a fluke occurrence. It may not warrant a thread each time, but it's not uncommon to find comments in threads that clearly reveal the fact that the poster believes Demi-Gods are moderators.

I think a lot of the confusion also stems from the fact that there are two official titles (Demi-God and Contributor) which carry the exact same meaning. In fact, I remember asking that very question as a "newbie."

Of course then we'll have threads wondering if "Contributor" means that that person writes stories for the front page.
We already have those threads. One step at a time... ;)

[CalBoy]

Keep in mind, this may not be a subject most new users would think of looking up in the FAQs, because many of them will feel that "obviously" the Demi-Gods are specially chosen in some way. Likewise, when reading through the FAQ upon their joining the community, they may not notice the section addressing user titles as they have yet to see them in "the real world."

If people want to skip past sections of the FAQ or simply make presuppositions about how the site works, who are we to stop them? Would changing the user titles really be that conducive to increasing the user experience? In the grand scheme of things, is this really something that needs to be given more thought over other things?

It seems to me that the pattern of behavior which your solution addresses is rampant across many and all forums on the internet. People don't like to read the rules or the FAQ and simply want to post. At times this produces disastrous results like a thread which breaks several rules. In other situations it can produce harmless misunderstandings ("how many posts do I need for an avatar?" for example). It can also produce minor problems like the one you described in your original post (demi-gods being misunderstood for Moderators).

I'll go into the specifics of that next:

Also, this really isn't just a fluke occurrence. It may not warrant a thread each time, but it's not uncommon to find comments in threads that clearly reveal the fact that the poster believes Demi-Gods are moderators.

This isn't necessarily a bad thing in all situations. The only time a "harm" or other negative effect is produced is:

112856

As this ad hoc table shows, the only harm that can be prevented with your suggestion of different nomenclature is the one in which the new member assumes that "demi-god" means Moderator and in which the demi-god is wrong.

Now, here we can postulate a few things. Firstly, if someone comes on the internet and is satisfied by the advice of only one person, then there is nothing that even an amended nomenclature system can do for them. Threads generally generate numerous responses, and if a demi-god is the only one to put forth an alternative opinion, then it would be wise for anyone, not just new members, to consider the advice of the majority.

Furthermore, an amended nomenclature indicates that the moderators will have more technical knowledge than non-mods, which is not always the case as mkrishnan informed us.

A new member could just as easily fall into the trap of believing something only on the basis of authority whether or not that person happens to be a mod. Savvy forum users will aggregate many opinions and consider them all before making a decision (it should be noted that savvy forum users will also make their own decisions and not simply rely on what a stranger on the internet tells them to do).

Considering these factors, would an amended user title system be any better than what we have now? How well would you estimate its effectiveness at reducing questions about user titles?

I think a lot of the confusion also stems from the fact that there are two official titles (Demi-God and Contributor) which carry the exact same meaning. In fact, I remember asking that very question as a "newbie."

This is meant to provide supporters with an option as to what they'd like. I think it's a nice little way of saying "we'll give you a few options because you're helping out the site."


We already have those threads. One step at a time... ;)

Then their frequency will only increase as all non-mod site supporters are relabled as "contributors."

This entire problem is reminiscent of a hamster's wheel. No matter how hard you try, you're still just running in place.

[WildCowboy]

Calboy, you're putting way too much thought into this. :p ;) :D

This is obviously a frequent topic of discussion, and it's something the mods and admins have discussed. We haven't yet decided whether any changes are or are not forthcoming, but the confusion we sometimes see is an issue we're aware of. :)

[CalBoy]

Calboy, you're putting way too much thought into this. :p ;) :D

:p:D

I actually just finished a 25 page research paper on a topic similar to this (how to reduce harms and injustice) and so I've got that whole body of work fueling my right now. :p

Besides, I happen to like my user title. :p:o

[MacNut]

We can always be called demigodless. Sure Cal, you were working on a "report";):p

[CalBoy]

Sure Cal, you were working on a "report";):p

That's what all the cool kids are calling it these days. :cool::p

[bartelby]

That's what all the cool kids are calling it these days. :cool::p

And you're just trying to be one of them :p

[CalBoy]

And you're just trying to be one of them :p

Whatever...


*runs off to finish a "report"*


:D

[MacNut]

I still don't see how changing the user titles will help if people still won't read the FAQ and still ask what the difference is.

[Eraserhead]

I still don't see how changing the user titles will help if people still won't read the FAQ and still ask what the difference is.

Lets look at how other sites do this:

112861

This person is clearly not a moderator and you don't have to read the rules or FAQ to see that, now you may not know what an "et Subscriptor" (subscriptor is actually a link to the "subscribe page") means but still...

[bigandy]

Calboy, you're putting way too much thought into this. :p ;) :D

and that's something new? :confused: :rolleyes:


Lets look at how other sites do this:

112861

This person is clearly not a moderator and you don't have to read the rules or FAQ to see that, now you may not no what an "et Subscriptor" (subscriptor is actually a link to the "subscribe page") means but still...

I think it's a bit bloody obvious here, too. Moderators have "moderator" under their username. Is that not simple enough?

[Eraserhead]

I think it's a bit bloody obvious here, too. Moderators have "moderator" under their username. Is that not simple enough?

That's true, at least once you've seen a moderator post, but there are a lot more demi gods than moderators.

[cmcbridejr]

If this issue of titles and what they signify is not such a big deal, then why have we all gone back and forth for so many pages?

From what I have read, I am not the only person that has posted confusion on this matter.

[Hankster]

If this issue of titles and what they signify is not such a big deal, then why have we all gone back and forth for so many pages?

From what I have read, I am not the only person that has posted confusion on this matter.

Because people enjoy taking about nothing. Look at how successful Seinfeld was.

If a person is so interested in "titles" they can find the information in multiple areas INCLUDING using the very simple search feature on the boards which brings up dozens of threads. People are simply too lazy to read around. It's that simple.

[xUKHCx]

there is obviously some confusion and I think this picture sums it up.

112870

[mkrishnan]

there is obviously some confusion and I think this picture sums it up.

For that issue, perhaps it would make sense to make everything consistent -- that is, make the capitalization on all the titles that have MacRumors in them the same (some of them are lowercase right now, and some of them are uppercase... sorry for being obsessive-compulsive :o ), and have the god title consistently include the administrative role as well?

MacRumors God (Administrator)
MacRumors Demi-God (Moderator)
MacRumors Demi-God(ess)
MacRumors Contributor

Or what have you...

In all honesty, I guess I wouldn't exactly cry if it changed more significantly, but at least that change would make the current system consistent.

[Eraserhead]

there is obviously some confusion and I think this picture sums it up.

Exactly that makes it look like is that Calboy is a less senior member than Wildcowboy, in fact it makes him look more like a moderator than ever.

Another option is to just append subscriber (or possibly sponsor, EDIT: There are other possibilities like Benefactor, but they sound fairly pretentious IMO) to the titles as according to the built in Mac OS X dictionary they don't have a cross-meaning to someone who writes for the site like Contributor does.

MacRumors God (Administrator)
MacRumors Demi-God (Moderator)
MacRumors Demi-Godess (Moderator)
MacRumors Demi-God (Subscriber)
MacRumors Demi-Godess (Subscriber)
MacRumors Contributor (Subscriber)

Though they are all getting a bit long winded, so maybe just:

MacRumors Subscriber is better...

[Sun Baked]

Whatever...


*runs off to finish a "report"*


:D

Isn't that what the men say when they get caught with all that porn on their work computer? Or was it writing a book?

[thehead]

i have a technical question where do i post it?

[Eraserhead]

i have a technical question where do i post it?

Mac Basics and Help ;).

[JNB]

Boy, some serious navel-gazing going on here. Taking a look at some other special-interest forums, I find the member titles in most of those are no plainer or self-evident as to the member's relative position than MR. Other than a vanilla Member, Senior Member, Moderator, Senior Moderator, Administrator, Senior Administrator--which I note has lots of chiefs and not many indians, most forums use naming conventions that are unique and relevant to the interest. None of them, other than the aforementioned example, are indicative to the casual viewer the "rank" of the title-holder. And at that, not knowing how these things work, is one to assume that a Moderator is more or less than an Administrator? To a complete neophyte, it may not even be that apparent.

There's no need to over-analyze for some supposed failure on the admins' parts for clarity in the naming conventions. The names are, well, what they are, until Arn decides that he wants to call us something else. At least MR has a FAQ where these things can be learned, most other forums don't. As it applies to the confused masses, are we really talking about more than one or two for every thousand? I would think that if one is to be a continuing member, they'll figure it out; if they are a sub-five poster, well, what difference does it make, then? In either case, it's not something that should be all that jarring to the general membership (how often do we change names to clarify even more?).

All that being said, I will grant that to the casual observer, the Demi-God/Demi-Goddess titles do seem to infer some level of authority (of whatever type you imagine), which may or may not have been intentional. With that in mind, I suggest that we carry ourselves appropriately, not doing any damage to the membership nor reputation of MR. As you have the Hippocratic oath, "First, do no harm," and Google, "Don't be Evil," there should be the MR Motto, "Don't be a Twunt."

[MacNut]

there is obviously some confusion and I think this picture sums it up.

112870Are you saying that Calboy is easily confused?:p

Do moderators need to be considered demi-gods. I would assume that just being called Moderator would imply more power on its own.

[CalBoy]

there is obviously some confusion and I think this picture sums it up.

I thought Doctor Q has (administrator) next to his title? Why doesn't WildCowboy?:confused:

That is confusing.

EDIT:

Doctor Q doesn't have it anymore either. He used to, and that did help clarify things a bit I think.

[EricNau]

For that issue, perhaps it would make sense to make everything consistent -- that is, make the capitalization on all the titles that have MacRumors in them the same (some of them are lowercase right now, and some of them are uppercase... sorry for being obsessive-compulsive :o ), and have the god title consistently include the administrative role as well?

MacRumors God (Administrator)
MacRumors Demi-God (Moderator)
MacRumors Demi-God(ess)
MacRumors Contributor

Or what have you...

In all honesty, I guess I wouldn't exactly cry if it changed more significantly, but at least that change would make the current system consistent.
Traditionally, the capitalized "God" is reserved for the god of monotheistic religions, contrasted with the "gods" of polytheistic religions. (I.e. the God as compared to a god.)

I'm assuming "MacRumors god" was left uncapitalized to avoid offending anyone who may have interpreted such a reference as idolatry (specifically, against the Abrahamic God).

Besides connotatively, it makes the most sense to leave "MacRumors god" uncapitalized because this coincides with traditional reference to any one of many gods, and as we're all aware, there's more than one MacRumors god.

[Zwhaler]

I thought Doctor Q has (administrator) next to his title? Why doesn't WildCowboy?:confused:

That is confusing.

EDIT:

Doctor Q doesn't have it anymore either. He used to, and that did help clarify things a bit I think.

Because Doctor Q and WildCowboy are Doctor Q and WildCowboy and they can be whatever they want to be ;)

But seriously, I think that everyone should already know that if it says "God", they are very high up and have the same stuffs as moderators or administrators.

[CalBoy]

Because Doctor Q and WildCowboy are Doctor Q and WildCowboy and they can be whatever they want to be ;)

Right you are. I can't wait until I can apply the aforementioned prefix to WildCowboy. :p


But seriously, I think that everyone should already know that if it says "God", they are very high up and have the same stuffs as moderators or administrators.

Yeah, but the (administrator) clarification helped since Longofest is an editor and Knox also does admin things but has no such tag.

Like mkrishnan said, it's easy to have a set standard and consistent for clarity.

[Grimace]

MacRumors God (Administrator)
MacRumors Demi-God (Moderator)
MacRumors Demi-Goddess (Moderator)
MacRumors Contributor

I think this would be a great clarification. I don't think the current Demis would care about being reclassified as Contributors.

[MacNut]

I don't think the current Demis would care about being reclassified as Contributors.Ya about that, um no. Don't like it. If i wanted to be a contributor I would of asked for it.

[NC MacGuy]

Maybe for increased revenue of the site put in large banner on main page, "You too can become a Demi-God if you contribute to MRumors."

An added benefit is all users absolutely know that a demi-god is nothing more than someone who puts their money where their posts are. Many don't read the FAQ's.

I for one have been reading the site for years before becoming a member and every MW stay glued to the site. I find the site worth the small $'s. Well done site with some of the best all around info.

[Grimace]

Ya about that, um no. Don't like it. If i wanted to be a contributor I would of asked for it.

So you only would have contributed to get a Demi-god moniker? Everyone knows that Demis are contributors and nothing more.

[MacNut]

So you only would have contributed to get a Demi-god moniker? Everyone knows that Demis are contributors and nothing more.So than what is the problem. If everyone already knows why change it. I don't see why we should ruin tradition because a few people refuse to read the rules.

[CalBoy]

So you only would have contributed to get a Demi-god moniker? Everyone knows that Demis are contributors and nothing more.

It isn't a matter of not contributing, but since we've had the option for a while now, I think it's nice that we get to keep it. Had MR always used the contributor-only title system, I doubt either MacNut or I would care right now. However, the fact that we've become accustomed to the title of 'demi-god,' we want to keep it. Nothing wrong with that.

[MacNut]

If Demi was never an option I could care less, but it has become a tradition. I think it means more than just paying money. It has become a symbol of all that is great with Macrumors. It is something that other forums don't have.

[EricNau]

So than what is the problem. If everyone already knows why change it. I don't see why we should ruin tradition because a few people refuse to read the rules.
And here lies the problem: everyone doesn't know.

I'd hazard to guess that the majority of us were confused by the current system upon first joining the community (I know I was). As experienced users who have been in the community for years now, it's easy for us to forget that we were once a "newbie" and dismiss this problem as the user's fault for not reading the FAQ, but I feel that it's important for us to make the assimilation period for new users as smooth and simple as possible, so that they can have the best possible experience. After all, isn't that what this community is all about?

[CalBoy]

but I feel that it's important for us to make the assimilation period for new users as smooth and simple as possible, so that they can have the best possible experience. After all, isn't that what this community is all about?

Like I mentioned in my previous post, if this is the primary concern behind this idea, then why not tackle the more important problems?

Getting people to use the search feature, place threads in the correct forums, and generally interact well with other forums members are much larger problems than the misunderstanding that can occur with 'demi-god.'

[Markleshark]

I see no reason to change it.

Just because every now and again someone doesn't read the rules/FAQs and doesn't understand the naming system doesn't mean it should be changed.

Another prime example of the minority spoiling it for the majority.

[asrmatt]

I love this thread with the fight of Demi Gods! I can almost hear the clash of thunder!! :)

We humans adore you anyway...! :p

[Mord]

I personally like my title the way it is, if anyone mistakes my posts for that of a moderator they're frankly mentally impaired.

[pivo6]

I see no reason to change it.

Just because every now and again someone doesn't read the rules/FAQs and doesn't understand the naming system doesn't mean it should be changed.

Another prime example of the minority spoiling it for the majority.

I personally like my title the way it is, if anyone mistakes my posts for that of a moderator they're frankly mentally impaired.

If it's not broken, why fix it? It's all spelled out in the FAQ.

[Teh Don Ditty]

I quite happen to like my moniker TYVM. If you want to change things I say use the Demi-God (Contributor), as somebody mentioned a few posts above me.

[rhett7660]

I was wondering about the titles also. But a quick search showed me the light.

I agree... this is like "Clash of the Titans"

Sits back, grabs a box of popcorn and is ready to enjoy the epic clash between the gods of MR. :p

[bartelby]

I couldn't give a monkey's. I use the Demi title as it's the default when you pay.

[Teh Don Ditty]

I couldn't give a monkey's. I use the Demi title as it's the default when you pay.

That's because you're too lazy to have it changed. :D :p

[bartelby]

That's because you're too lazy to have it changed. :D :p

Exactamundo, mon petite fleur! :D

[CalBoy]

I love this thread with the fight of Demi Gods! I can almost hear the clash of thunder!! :)

We humans adore you anyway...! :p

Again, you can also become a 'demi-god/godess' just by contributing $25 to the site (for one year).

There's nothing special about the demis other than the fact that they all wanted to help out MR. :)

[twoodcc]

well i'm a little late to this thread, but i'll join in on it now anyways.

i think it's fine how it is. i mean, it wouldn't bother me if they changed it either.

my question is, if you do contribute, can you still keep the regular title?

[Eraserhead]

my question is, if you do contribute, can you still keep the regular title?

Yes.

[dukebound85]

I wouldn't trust the Demi-God title as being indicative of the user's experience. I've run into quite a few newbie Demi-Gods.

mr should have the title like this for the user by default


say 603-DG or 603-DemiGod so you know what the demi gods "status" is if you know what i mean


anyone have thoughts on this?

[Teh Don Ditty]

mr should have the title like this for the user by default

say 603-DG or 603-DemiGod so you know what the demi gods "status" is if you know what i mean

anyone have thoughts on this?

Some people don't want to be known as Demi's.

[MacNut]

Im sure you could find a 603 with not much knowledge either, doesn't matter if they are a Demi or not. A person either knows or they don't.

We have a guy labeled President, it doesn't mean anything.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Im sure you could find a 603 with not much knowledge either, doesn't matter if they are a Demi or not. A person either knows or they don't.

We have a guy labeled President, it doesn't mean anything.

You're clearly talking about yourself aren't you?

[MacNut]

You're clearly talking about yourself aren't you?Just call me prez.
All I'm saying is that we have smart newbies and some older members that might not have a knowledge on a topic. Doesn't mean we should discredit them based on title. Is it that hard to look at a post count and see that a Demi might have 50 posts.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Just call me prez.
All I's saying is that we have smart newbies and some older members that might not have a knowledge on a topic. Doesn't mean we should discredit them based on title.

You don't want to be labeled as the prez. Not exactly a high honor. :p

No, I agree with what you're saying. A title doesn't dictate how much a person knows.

[LeahM]

Is it true that you get added benefits of a Demi but aren't supposed to say? Its a secret society isnt it? Or not so secret? :)

But I understand there is/are access to another forum for Demis.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Is it true that you get added benefits of a Demi but aren't supposed to say? Its a secret society isnt it? Or not so secret? :)

But I understand there is/are access to another forum for Demis.

Added benefits as follows:

You're helping out MR :)
The Privates™
Ad Free Frontpage and Forums

[MacNut]

Is it true that you get added benefits of a Demi but aren't supposed to say? Its a secret society isnt it? Or not so secret? :)

But I understand there is/are access to another forum for Demis.The biggest is no ads.

[LeahM]

Added benefits as follows:


The Privates™


Sounds dirty. haha but thanks for the quick responce.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Sounds dirty. haha but thanks for the quick responce.

That is an understatment.

You're welcome!

[OllyW]

Is it true that you get added benefits of a Demi but aren't supposed to say? Its a secret society isnt it? Or not so secret? :)

It isn't very secret, you just donate $25 and you are in ;)

[NC MacGuy]

This question may have already been asked, but I could not find an answer.

I understand that MacRumors forum users are "promoted" (Demi-God, Member, Regular, Newbie, etc.) by the number of total posts that they make.

How come some users are listed as Demi-Gods, but have only recently joined the forums and have minimal postings?

Do some people pay money to MacRumors to become Demi-Gods without posting?

Thanks in advance.

The only reply to this that makes any sense and sticks to thread is:

Please read first paragraph of MacRumors FAQ in forum heading.

End of flippin' story.

[bartelby]

Is it true that you get added benefits of a Demi but aren't supposed to say? Its a secret society isnt it? Or not so secret? :)

But I understand there is/are access to another forum for Demis.

Added benefits as follows:

You're helping out MR :)
The Privates™
Ad Free Frontpage and Forums

I should point out that these benefits are clearly mentioned in the FAQs.

Maybe all we really need is a 400 x 1200 pixel banner to link to the FAQs.

[bigandy]

Maybe all we really need is a 400 x 1200 pixel banner to link to the FAQs.
That may be too small for some of the members to notice. :rolleyes:

[Cromulent]

With the most reasoned respost coming from Blue Velvet (a mod)

Does anyone else find this line in Blue Velvets post funny or is just my strange sense of humour?

Personally, I have no idea why I was invited to become a moderator, but the why doesn't interest me. What interests me is what I can do with the tools I've been given.

http://www.uk-vanguard.com/images/banstick.jpg

[NC MacGuy]

Does anyone else find this line in Blue Velvets post funny or is just my strange sense of humour?

Miss her witty posts..

I think if BV was still riding herd, this thread would have been answered "read the FAQ" to OP and been wastelanded long ago.

[bartelby]

With the most reasoned respost coming from Blue Velvet (a mod)

I loves me some BV discipline. :D

[dukebound85]

and im confused as to why my post was deleted...


is the donation 25 a year or is it just 25 initially?

[Teh Don Ditty]

and im confused as to why my post was deleted...


is the donation 25 a year or is it just 25 initially?

$25/yr

[Jaffa Cake]

and im confused as to why my post was deleted...


is the donation 25 a year or is it just 25 initially?$25 a year – but once you're initiated into demihood, you're never allowed to leave... ;)

[iJohnHenry]

And they sell your E-mail address to 1,000's of charities too.

Yet another source of income.

;)

[mkrishnan]

And they sell your E-mail address to 1,000's of charities too.

The n00bs in the iPhone forum are the only charity case Macrumors really directs my way. ;)

[NC MacGuy]

I don't like my posts being deleted (as long as I'm following forum rules,) without a courtesy PM as to why.

[iJohnHenry]

Are you sure you pressed "Enter".

No, seriously, not trying to be smart. I have had quite a few tabs open, and have screwed-up once in a while.

You could try it again, and see if a lynching party forms.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g158/MouseMeat/Smilies/Townsfolk-1.gif

[WildCowboy]

This is off-topic, but sending a PM regarding each and every deleted post is not realistic. The moderators just do not have time or energy to compose dozens of PMs every day, and the vast majority of the time, it's pretty clear why a post has been deleted. If you have a question regarding a specific deleted post feel free to contact the moderators (http://forums.macrumors.com/sendmessage.php) and we'll get back to you.

As for the relevance to this thread, we have never allowed discussion of ways to circumvent the display of ads on macrumors.com other than via contributing to the site. We prefer not to shoot ourselves in the foot. ;)

[iJohnHenry]

Could be wrong but highly doubt it.

Me too. I have seen this "phenominom" on other Boards. ;)

EDIT: However, not withstanding WC's previous post, I think advising someone with over 500 posts, such as yourself, would not be such an odious task.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g158/MouseMeat/Smilies/o34-1.gif

[Grimace]

I quite happen to like my moniker TYVM. If you want to change things I say use the Demi-God (Contributor), as somebody mentioned a few posts above me.

I like this a lot. I'm obviously not against having Demi-god monikers, it just helps to clarify things.

[CalBoy]

Me too. I have seen this "phenominom" on other Boards. ;)

You mean one in which mods do other things and don't always PM users over trivial rule violations?

EDIT: However, not withstanding WC's previous post, I think advising someone with over 500 posts, such as yourself, would not be such an odious task.

Except that there are quite a few members with over 500 posts (1,652 members in fact). Every minor error would require a PM and would require the work of many mods, even if they were all able to work 24/7 in some miraculous fashion.

Remember that the mods are real people who volunteer some of their spare time to do this. Give them a break and be glad that the forums are so well maintained by the mods given the amount of traffic they see everyday.

[Mord]

I loves me some BV discipline. :D

Mmm, discipline.

[Eraserhead]

I've just had a glance at the FAQ and although it mentions what a Demi God is, maybe its worth adding a question "What is a Demi God/Demi Godess?" with the answer to the FAQ and see if that helps...

[MacNut]

That would be helpful but then we would need to find a way to get people to read the FAQ.

[NC MacGuy]

That would be helpful but then we would need to find a way to get people to read the FAQ.

I posted a solution to the problem a hundred or so posts ago.

Just like the "I Accept" button on most everything downloaded these days: I have read MR Faq's, I have read MR Forum rules for condition of being given a member acct.

Anyone asks about Demi whatever, standard pasted reply is to "read membership acceptance material."

[sushi]

If Demi was never an option I could care less, but it has become a tradition. I think it means more than just paying money. It has become a symbol of all that is great with Macrumors. It is something that other forums don't have.
Well said.

At this point, I would venture to say that many Demi's do not want to give up their title.

[Eraserhead]

That would be helpful but then we would need to find a way to get people to read the FAQ.

I suspect there is a chance quite a few of them at least glance at the FAQ but don't see the relevant details...

[iBlue]

Oh god, I've said this quite a few times with good reception but what the hell, one more for gits and shiggles, and then I'll never harp on about it again...

Yeah, maybe it doesn't NEED to be changed but there's a logical and very easy solution...

omit the demi title from the moderators, like so:

macrumors god (administrator)
macrumors god (moderator)
macrumors goddess (moderator)

and the rest can stay as is:

macrumors demi-god
macrumors demi-goddesss
contributor


It's never made much sense to me that the staff do not share more similar user titles. Yeah anyone can look it up and yeah it can stay as is but why not give it a slightly more logical orientation? <shrug> Man, we got some stubborn, change-resistant admins! :p

Just my two pennies though, for what it's worth.

[Eraserhead]

^^ Plus the FAQ changes it might just make enough difference, its worth a try without removing the "Demi God" thing.

[Grimace]

What about:

macrumors god (administrator)
macrumors god (moderator)
macrumors goddess (moderator)

macrumors demi-god (contributor)
macrumors demi-goddesss (contributor)
contributor

[MacNut]

That would make it more confusing, just say Moderator should make it easier.

macrumors (moderator) Or moderatess for the ladies.
macrumors (administrator)
macrumors Demi-God
macrumors Demi-Goddess

[bigandy]

there's a logical and very easy solution...

Yeah, we all just get on with our 'lives', and stop trying to fix something that is absolutely not broken.

It's not going to make it easier, people are still going to ask stupid questions, because they'll continue to ignore the FAQ/Rules.


To quote Brian in the last episode of Family Guy:

If you don't like it, go on the internet and complain.

Oh, wait. :rolleyes:

[EricNau]

Yeah, we all just get on with our 'lives', and stop trying to fix something that is absolutely not broken.

It's not going to make it easier, people are still going to ask stupid questions, because they'll continue to ignore the FAQ/Rules.
Once again, this really isn't a rule/FAQ issue, because it's not something one would think to look up, rather, it's just assumed by most newcomers that Demi-God means moderator.

Sure, it's be great if everyone constantly read over and memorized the rules and FAQs (perhaps had them tattooed to their forehead), but that simply isn't a realistic expectation. What's the problem with making the current system easier to understand (resulting in less confusion and fewer questions)?

[MacNut]

Is it confusing or more ignorance to not find the answer. 7 years of this site and never a problem.

[SthrnCmfrtr]

You mean one in which mods do other things and don't always PM users over trivial rule violations?

Except that there are quite a few members with over 500 posts (1,652 members in fact). Every minor error would require a PM and would require the work of many mods, even if they were all able to work 24/7 in some miraculous fashion.

Remember that the mods are real people who volunteer some of their spare time to do this. Give them a break and be glad that the forums are so well maintained by the mods given the amount of traffic they see everyday.

It's a simple bit of PHP. When a moderator deletes the post, check the number of the rule that it violates in a little list that appears next to the confirmation dialogue. A form PM is sent to the offending user from a "catch-all" account.

That's the neat thing about computers. If you have a repetitive task that you want to perform, five minutes of programming will make it completely automatic.

[MacNut]

It's a simple bit of PHP. When a moderator deletes the post, check the number of the rule that it violates in a little list that appears next to the confirmation dialogue. A form PM is sent to the offending user from a "catch-all" account.

That's the neat thing about computers. If you have a repetitive task that you want to perform, five minutes of programming will make it completely automatic.While in theory that could work, it is still an extra step for the mods. I don't know how many members want a response but they can always PM the mod to get the reason if they really want to know.

[Cassie]

You should watch user trends in Forum Spy. When someone posts a lot you notice.

Forum Spy just isn't worth it to me. Sure, it may raise my post count, but who cares? Most times I look in Forum Spy, there's nothing there that I feel I am qualified to answer, and I like to check out the threads that I may have missed a day or two ago, and Forum Spy doesn't let you do that.

[dukebound85]

Forum Spy just isn't worth it to me. Sure, it may raise my post count, but who cares? Most times I look in Forum Spy, there's nothing there that I feel I am qualified to answer, and I like to check out the threads that I may have missed a day or two ago, and Forum Spy doesn't let you do that.

i live on forum spy haha. now when i go to other forums, im helplessly looking for it and its not there:(

[CalBoy]

Once again, this really isn't a rule/FAQ issue, because it's not something one would think to look up, rather, it's just assumed by most newcomers that Demi-God means moderator.

I think it most certainly is a rules/FAQ issue. People don't like to read the FAQ or rules these days and then they decide to just create new threads willy-nilly.

Let's pretend it was a more serious problem, like people posting requests about illegal software copying. That's in the rules. But, according to your logic, we should change that rule because people don't want to read about it and assume they have the right to ask whatever they want.

Sure, it's be great if everyone constantly read over and memorized the rules and FAQs (perhaps had them tattooed to their forehead), but that simply isn't a realistic expectation. What's the problem with making the current system easier to understand (resulting in less confusion and fewer questions)?
One doesn't need to have the rules memorized, but people should know that when they have a question, there are guides and the FAQ available to them. A relatively small time investment on the part of the individual can lead to better results for everyone.

And the problem with changing the titles as they are now is that there is no guarantee that doing so will produce any favorable results. At some point or another, someone is going to confuse a mod for a non-mod.

Besides, there's a certain traditional aspect behind the titles here, and a lot of us like them.
It's a simple bit of PHP. When a moderator deletes the post, check the number of the rule that it violates in a little list that appears next to the confirmation dialogue. A form PM is sent to the offending user from a "catch-all" account.

I'm sure the admins would want to hear about this. Even if they don't ultimately use the idea, they might be able to rig up something else useful.


That's the neat thing about computers. If you have a repetitive task that you want to perform, five minutes of programming will make it completely automatic.

Your patronizing aside, it's nice on paper, but it will not end up working out like that. Doctor Q has mentioned before that messing with vB code, while possible, can lead to unpredictable side effects.

The mods and admins here do a great job considering the traffic on these boards, and my post was really meant to reflect the attitude, not the technological standpoint, that people should have when approaching situations like one of their posts being removed or edited.

[iBlue]

Yeah, we all just get on with our 'lives', and stop trying to fix something that is absolutely not broken.

It's not going to make it easier, people are still going to ask stupid questions, because they'll continue to ignore the FAQ/Rules.


To quote Brian in the last episode of Family Guy:



Oh, wait. :rolleyes:

WoooOOOOooooOOOOoooo, pardon me all over the place! :p

[Eraserhead]

I think it most certainly is a rules/FAQ issue. People don't like to read the FAQ or rules

But the problem is that now to find the information in the FAQ you have to print them out and read the whole thing, you can't glance at the contents and see the question in the list.

I personally would glance at the FAQ before PM'ing a mod, but I probably wouldn't read the whole thing in detail.

[CalBoy]

But the problem is that now to find the information in the FAQ you have to print them out and read the whole thing, you can't glance at the contents and see the question in the list.

You're right, a list of questions at the top would help tremendously.

It would be easy to do if we made each question its own wiki header. It would appear in the "article outline" box at the top.

[Virgil-TB2]

I wouldn't trust the Demi-God title as being indicative of the user's experience. I've run into quite a few newbie Demi-Gods.Yeah, I used to think they were the experienced, older, calmer members but I apparently even a total ******* can simply buy the title.

A better yardstick is someone with an icon who *hasn't* paid and just has the "member" title. It means they have been posting regularly for over a year and haven't left or had any major problems that would get them kicked out in all that time.

I tend to report about as many posts as I make :o

Sometimes I wonder if maybe I am a pest in that regard, but the posts I report are usually deleted or the thread is wastelanded, so maybe not.

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gifNo offense but if as many posts offend you as posts you actually make yourself, you are seriously mixed up.

The icon is for reporting a post that is offensive and needs to be deleted. If you are reporting that many posts, you are doing a dis-service to serious discourse and missing the whole point of forums in general. The mods are overworked and generally delete anything they are asked to delete. What makes you think that censoring the board so heavily is *your* job? I've been here for about a year and a half, posting three or four times a day and I have yet to report a single post for being offensive or needing deletion.

How could there possibly be that many posts that you want deleted? :confused:

[JNB]

No offense but if as many posts offend you as posts you actually make yourself, you are seriously mixed up.

The icon is for reporting a post that is offensive and needs to be deleted. If you are reporting that many posts, you are doing a dis-service to serious discourse and missing the whole point of forums in general. The mods are overworked and generally delete anything they are asked to delete. What makes you think that censoring the board so heavily is *your* job? I've been hear for about a year and a half, posting three or four times a day and I have yet to report a single post for being offensive or needing deletion.

How could there possibly be that many posts that you want deleted? :confused:

You're mistaken; the "Report Post" is for posts that are problematic in any way as related to Forum Rules. This includes dupes, wrong sub-forum, etc. I'm "offended" by a lot, but I may not report it because it doesn't violate one of the Forum rules. If those posts are getting deleted, then they pose a problem for the mods and they are enforcing said rules. An individual's decision to report is not an indication of or guaranty of deletion-worthiness. In point of fact, most posts I have reported haven't been deleted, because they were just relocated to the correct sub-forum, or my interpretation was wrong, and the reviewing mod took no action. If a member was felt to be over-reporting, that could bring out their own ultimate banishment for abusing the system as well.

[MacNut]

This thread is getting off topic, and that is once reason why posts get deleted. If the discussion does not add anything to the conversation the posts will be deleted. It doesn't matter if they are offensive posts or not.

[Grimace]

I don't think this has been discussed before, but what would you guys think of having a very small icon next to or below Contributor and Demi-God titles. Similar to the blue ribbons that occasionally pop up (iBlue for example), maybe something like a small chest etc. It would almost serve as its own FAQ if it were clickable to the contribution info page.

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ue3-tEWqGDEbwM:http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/609908/2/istockphoto_609908_treasure_chest.jpg

[iJohnHenry]

Anyone with an avatar (500+ posts) should be given some consideration in the grand scheme of things.

This way, personal grievance, originating from an individual Mod, would not be so "final".

[Teh Don Ditty]

Anyone with an avatar (500+ posts) should be given some consideration in the grand scheme of things.

This way, personal grievance, originating from an individual Mod, would not be so "final".

I'm curious why should anyone with a 'tar have special consideration? Just because you have 'tar doesn't mean you're not an a-hole.

[MacDawg]

This thread is getting off topic, and that is once reason why posts get deleted. If the discussion does not add anything to the conversation the posts will be deleted. It doesn't matter if they are offensive posts or not.

anybody else think this thread has run its course?

i kept thinking it would die a natural death, but now i think someone needs to kill it


Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

[EricNau]

I don't think this has been discussed before, but what would you guys think of having a very small icon next to or below Contributor and Demi-God titles. Similar to the blue ribbons that occasionally pop up (iBlue for example), maybe something like a small chest etc. It would almost serve as its own FAQ if it were clickable to the contribution info page.

I think it might be a good idea if it were used instead of the current demi-god and contributor titles (thus reserving the demi-god title for moderators), otherwise adding an icon in addition to the titles would simply add another layer of confusion.

[iJohnHenry]

I'm curious why should anyone with a 'tar have special consideration? Just because you have 'tar doesn't mean you're not an a-hole.

Fair question.

If they haven't shot themselves in the foot in 500+ posts, it is a reasonable assumption that they are compus-mentus.

The Internet is a viable place, and Mods would do well to respect that fact.

[MacNut]

I'm curious why should anyone with a 'tar have special consideration? Just because you have 'tar doesn't mean you're not an a-hole.Status symbol does not necessarily make you right. A newbie could be just as right as a person with 20,000 posts. It doesn't mean anything.

anybody else think this thread has run its course?

i kept thinking it would die a natural death, but now i think someone needs to kill it.]It is just rehash of what was said the first 2 pages at this point.

[OzExige]

I think it might be a good idea if it were used instead of the current demi-god and contributor titles (thus reserving the demi-god title for moderators), otherwise adding an icon in addition to the titles would simply add another layer of confusion.

I think Demi-God is a little over the top and would prefer a small ribbon, umm, blue, I think, yes blue would be nice :)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Status symbol does not necessarily make you right. A newbie could be just as right as a person with 20,000 posts. It doesn't mean anything.

You realize that we're both saying the same thing right?

[MacNut]

You realize that we're both saying the same thing right?And we have already said it further up in the thread as well Im sure.:p Just agreeing with you really.

[Teh Don Ditty]

And we have already said it further up in the thread as well Im sure.:p Just agreeing with you really.

Indeed.

Where's that beating the dead horse smilie?

[MacNut]

You read my mind.:p
http://deephousepage.com/smilies/deadhorse.gif

[Grimace]

I think Demi-God is a little over the top and would prefer a small ribbon, umm, blue, I think, yes blue would be nice :)

Me too. I think I may put in a request to be a Contributor. Even I get confused sometimes with all the Demis running wild!

Or, we could just change Demi-God to Dollar-God :)

[rdowns]

Will this do?


http://www.bjacked.net/LuvToHunt/forums/phpBB2/modules/gallery/albums/album01/Beat_Dead_Horse.jpg

[MacNut]

Will this do?http://deephousepage.com/smilies/Disappointed_anim.gifmeh not so much.

[mad jew]

How many demigods does it take to change a forum title? This thread is crazy!

[MacDawg]

How many demigods does it take to change a forum title? This thread is crazy!

MJ you have my permission to kill it :o

If not, maybe a comet will come screaming down towards us bringing sweet relief from this madness... madness I say

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

[OzExige]

Me too. I think I may put in a request to be a Contributor. Even I get confused sometimes with all the Demis running wild!

Or, we could just change Demi-God to Dollar-God :)

Dollar-God, yes I like that too, the God of the almighty Dollar, very nice, very nice indeed.

[Grimace]

Dollar-God, yes I like that too, the God of the almighty Dollar, very nice, very nice indeed.

Maybe Euro-God and Pound-God could follow. :) I know that continuing this path is annoying so I will stop the joke suggestions.

However, I still find it funny that people are so against changing a confusing arbitrary name. If you came to the site for the first time and the designation was something totally different, you wouldn't care as much.

"I wanna be a GOD of some sort! My forum happiness depends on it!" :rolleyes:

[mrwizardno2]

Good lord - the system in place is working fine. The hair-brained "noobs" just need to get over it. With a little reading (I know, it's asking way, way too much... really) they'll catch on. Sure they'll whine and complain, as they always do, but I see no future benefit from changing the way things currently are just to appease them.

The contributors know what is going on - the majority of the every-day users know what is going on - and the people who have more posts than what should be legally possible (yes, Mad Jew, this is a jab at you! :D) obviously have this incorporated into their collective memory / DNA. Why change something that will have an effect on ALL forum members for the itsy bitsy tiny group that is complaining?

Just my thought on the subject, since everyone else is chiming in.