Code Sharing/Promo Codes Section

[mscriv]

I've been a member here for a few years now and only recently have I been venturing into the Code Sharing thread. It's pretty cool how many developers are posting codes and how many users are providing quality feedback. However, I do see one recurring complaint and that is that codes are being taken by folks who don't ever post a response or even a "thank you" to report which code they have used.

Do lurkers have access to the code sharing section? Should we maybe consider some way of better managing this specific forum in order to make it more useful for developers and MR members? I imagine developers want honest feedback or at least a chance for a review when they choose to post codes and give away their product for free. A member or a lurker who takes a code and doesn't even take the time to post in the thread is likely not going to take the time to go to iTunes or another site and post a review.

My first thought was to put a post count on the thread like the Marketplace, but that could prevent developers from having access as well. I've seen some developers post about their application and then give out codes via PM. This is a nice way to prevent lurkers from taking all the codes, but I don't know if it actually encourages more interaction or actual feedback on the usage of the application. Additionally, this requires more work on the part of the developer.

What do you all think? Is there any kind of solution to this dilemma and is it a big enough issue that something should be done about it?

 

[MisterKeeks]

This is a pretty recurring theme with that section. I don't use it, but I've heard that it's pretty bad. One idea is to restrict that section like the marketplace.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Also some people post the codes in a number of forums. Or they might get tweeted by the developer.

 

[Jessica Lares]

Yeah, I really think something should be done about it too. I also notice that a lot of the same people take codes, yet they never actually participate in the forums other than in that area. Amazing Iceman, Michaelgtrusa, and I all spend a lot of time in there, but we're also heavy MR posters in general, and have been for more than a couple of years now. Plus, I leave feedback, especially when I think an app is ****, and that the developer is ****, like the other month when I completely went off at HeroCraft (who are a known developer group) for having an embarrassing/ad-filled/unplayable game.

I would think becoming a Regular rank would be a good point on when you can get access to the sharing section. Having the Vendor badge would instantly get you access, but the developer would have to verify that they are a developer/vendor to begin with by providing proof with websites and links to their work.

It would be better for everyone here, and maybe get some of the newbies to actually start posting more.

 

[Tilpots]

This has been an issue for a long time and nobody's stepped up to fix it. Not high on the priority list, I guess. Probably right behind the MR app.

I think it should be a restricted access forum like the Marketplace. If Devs want to give out codes and people want to take them, they should both have to participate in the Community like everyone else. The quality of the apps will likely be higher and the quality of feedback will likely be higher as well. Win win.

 

[chickenwingfly]

I agree with y'all but I smell chances are scarce for something to be implemented, not that I really know the administration team at all, but I can feel it.

 

[rmwebs]

There is a very simple fix to help slow this down.

Add a

Spoiler

or [hide] tag. Then make it so that tag is only visible to registered members with X posts. Very easy to do as IIRC

A) there are a number of plugins already on vBulletin.org
B) Modding vb 3.x is stupidly easy to do.

 

[chickenwingfly]

There is a very simple fix to help slow this down.

Add a

Spoiler

or [hide] tag. Then make it so that tag is only visible to registered members with X posts. Very easy to do as IIRC

A) there are a number of plugins already on vBulletin.org
B) Modding vb 3.x is stupidly easy to do.

Spoiler

Even if the spoiler tag is indeed very easy to implement, I doubt the devs of this place have the will to implement it, just for (again) what seems to be a irrelevant sub-forum on the site?