Enough is enough with the classifieds (*or* Why you cannot reply to classified ads)

[joshjtd]

Good point Harald. I never took in to account the number of folks that would more than likely bail if they had to pay to be here. I just am really not understanding how people do not see that the rules really are not that difficult to follow?

This is a large community with many breeders all of varying quality. Why can't folks not see that if you make the image of being a rude, difficult, or mean individual on this site, that it is the perception the rest of the community will have of you. I personally try to avoid buying from the folks that are not positive and constructive members here.

While the internet is a place of anonymity (less so on Fauna), the reputation you build here is forever lasting, good or bad.

 

[FosterHerpetological]

I dont know if this has been said but is there any way to judge whether a person to post on an ad by the prefix?

This is what im trying to say, Im not a paying cont.(right now) so I know that I cannot post on "For Sale" ads. But there have been a couple times over the past few days on "Wanted" ads that I was going to post info to help the person find what they were looking for, but I couldnt.

Any way to change, or modify that? Or is the tech not up to date, or just another reason all together....

 

[WebSlave]

Josh - while making the whole site "(paid) members only" hasn't been tried, it was done in both the BOI and in the classifieds. Both efforts proved detrimental to the site, particularly the classifieds; so I doubt Rich would be going down that road again (unless/until he simply doesn't care about the well being of the site...ie, when it comes to the point where it HAS to generate significant revenue or cease to exist)

I don't see that happening, simply because it would be like cutting off your head to try to stop the brain cancer from killing you.

It would be like running a retail store, finding out that you were going out of business because sales were too low, and coming up with the plan to charge admission at the door to try to generate revenue. Obviously it is far too late at that point, and such a decision would simply accelerate the closing of the doors.

 

[WebSlave]

I dont know if this has been said but is there any way to judge whether a person to post on an ad by the prefix?

This is what im trying to say, Im not a paying cont.(right now) so I know that I cannot post on "For Sale" ads. But there have been a couple times over the past few days on "Wanted" ads that I was going to post info to help the person find what they were looking for, but I couldnt.

Any way to change, or modify that? Or is the tech not up to date, or just another reason all together....

The only way that would be feasible is by having separate sections for FOR SALE, and WANTEDS threads. I've tried that before, I believe it was when this site was originally HerpWantAds, and it just did not work too well. Too many people wound up posting their ad in BOTH sections, I guess believing that people wanting something in particular by posting in the WANTEDS section would be just as likely to have an interest in what they were offering as the people checking the FOR SALE section. So there were a LOT of duplicate ads being placed.

Still, there is no reason why people wanting to respond to a WANTED ad can't do so via private message and/or email.

 

[R. Eventide]

Sorry for my tardiness; I rarely venture out of the few fora I frequent.

Anyway, here are my thoughts.

1. I have no problem with the change whatsoever. Being able to reply to classifieds at all has always been a privilege and not a right. As someone else mentioned, what do y'all do when you encounter an ad on KS and you can't post a reply?

2. Frankly, I'm sick and tired of people being babied. This is one of the reasons our society is so wrapped up in bureaucratic nonsense: no one takes responsibility for their actions, and so we end up with ridiculous laws and warnings in order to protect the idiots.

Don't know the seller? Do research on them (and not just the BOI).

Have a question? Contact them using the contact info they put in the ad or send them a PM.

See an ad that says "ball python" and shows a pic of a retic? If a person is wanting to buy a ball python and doesn't know what one looks like, it's their own fault if they end up with a retic instead.

What about sellers who get asked the same questions over and over in PMs, when in the previous system, one person could ask in a reply and everyone could read the response? (1) Most people don't even read the ad itself, let alone replies (see someone else's comment about being asked about trades/shipping when the ad specifically mentions no trades or local pick-ups only). (2) If you're a seller and are being asked the same question over and over, then perhaps that's a hint you should put said info in your ad! (I think Harald mentioned doing this.)

What about fishy-sounding ads or the like? Again, if you can't be bothered to either think critically about what a person is saying in their ad and/or do some research on them, then it's your own fault. I mean, how many times do people buy from sellers with obvious Bad Guy threads/ratings and then proceed to come on the BOI, whining about how they were taken? I'm sorry, but you either refused to take the time to look the person up or you were willing to take a chance despite said warnings. Either way, the outcome is entirely your responsibility and no one else's.

Most of the other arguments I've seen fall into one of these categories (mostly the "use common sense and do your research, for heaven's sake" one).

3. These are free classifieds. Free. Think about how that directly benefits you, whether you can reply to ads or not.

---

My guess is that very soon, you'll have to nix replies altogether. And, frankly, I think that's a better course than only allowing paid members to reply. Just put everyone on the same level and leave it at that.

 

[whatnowcustoms]

I wish I had some constructive critisism to offer but seriously not being able to post a reply to any classified ad is the dumbest thing i've ever heard of. people should be able to discuss stuff in the open with the breeder or seller cause multiple people might have the same question about the ad or the animal. when you are able to post an ad and have to do everything else in private it makes the site look like its dealing with shady people selling stuff on here. thats just my 2 cents even though it won't count for anything.

 

[Bsixxx]

I wish I had some constructive critisism to offer but seriously not being able to post a reply to any classified ad is the dumbest thing i've ever heard of. people should be able to discuss stuff in the open with the breeder or seller cause multiple people might have the same question about the ad or the animal. when you are able to post an ad and have to do everything else in private it makes the site look like its dealing with shady people selling stuff on here. thats just my 2 cents even though it won't count for anything.

+2
The rules laid down on this website about posting and identity are a real issue. Just because a person abbreviates his/her location they get an infraction. i see that as being a bit over the top, if the interested party would like to know where they live, they should post it. but only through private messaging or email etc, not openly all the time for every tom, dick and harry to see. And as for not being able to post in classfeilds over the rediculous infractions make snot only the potential buyer suffer but also the seller.
Might want to think about giving a little more le-way on here. As that might help out a bit with activity and other functions...

 

[Utta]

frankly, if you dont like it Ben, dont use it. use the same door you used to enter, to leave. its not hard.

and they've tried the "le-way" youre talking about. it obviously didnt work to well, otherwise this wouldnt have had to happen.

 

[WebSlave]

I stated my warning several times that if the crap did not cease within the classifieds, then this was exactly what I was going to do. Although I did relent and leave the paying contributor members the ability to reply, it appears that they are much more controlled concerning what they post in the classifieds, perhaps now aware that this can be taken away from them as well if the problems still continue there.

I am sorry that some don't like it, but that's just the way it is.

As for the issue of stating your location, I believe there is a thread also in this Feedback Forum that addresses the "why" of that rule as well. Quite honestly, of someone wants to be anonymous, then this is not the place for them. And to be perfectly blunt, the internet isn't the place for them neither...

 

[AbsoluteApril]

As for the issue of stating your location, I believe there is a thread also in this Feedback Forum that addresses the "why" of that rule as well.

Here is the link to one of the discussions about the full location rule:
http://www.faunaclassifieds.com/forums/showthread.php?t=197754


(I'm not particularly a fan of that either, but rules are rules and those are the rules of this site)

 

[Katie.Shinkle]

Like Utta said...you don't like it, get out. No one is forcing you to stay.

It's already been explained several times through here that the 'le-way' thing didn't work, and several warnings were given. It is just as easy to inquire on classifieds by utilizing the PM system, or e-mail/phone (if the OP of the ad lists it). Most did not heed the given warnings, therefore Rich had to take the next step.

I really don't understand WHY it's such a big deal that we can't post in the ads? I've never been on a forum where you were allowed to even reply to ads, but had to use the PM system. It helps keep the ads 'cleaner' and a lot easier to navigate through. If you have a question, and I'll say it again, utilize the PM system.

 

[Bsixxx]

frankly, if you dont like it Ben, dont use it. use the same door you used to enter, to leave. its not hard.

and they've tried the "le-way" youre talking about. it obviously didnt work to well, otherwise this wouldnt have had to happen.

Quite frankly your attitude in the matter isn't needed.

I had a simple question. overall I think the whole operation of the site needs a second look at. And a better way to enforce the rules other than completly blocking people with uptight moderators! Look at other websites and forums. They are run alot better than this. As for the door, i'm sure you could find it usefull as well sir. You seem to forget that this is the enternet, not real life. We as people choose to sit behind a computer screen with made up identity for a reason. Not everyone is here to spam or cause chaos. I for one don't think it is neccesary to post my actual location to the entire world along with my real full name to post an animal for sale. This is the enternet as I stated before. And you sir don't need to be so dam uptight about a simple issue.

Now good day.

 

[bsharrah]

You seem to forget that this is the enternet, not real life.

Here is the biggest problem with forums these days. People tend to forget THIS IS REAL LIFE!!!! The Internet is not some dream world where we can create a whole new you of make believe. People who use it should be held accountable for how they use it.

 

[Utta]

+2
The rules laid down on this website about posting and identity are a real issue. Just because a person abbreviates his/her location they get an infraction. i see that as being a bit over the top, if the interested party would like to know where they live, they should post it. but only through private messaging or email etc, not openly all the time for every tom, dick and harry to see. And as for not being able to post in classfeilds over the rediculous infractions make snot only the potential buyer suffer but also the seller.
Might want to think about giving a little more le-way on here. As that might help out a bit with activity and other functions...

Quite frankly your attitude in the matter isn't needed.

I had a simple question.

next time you have a question, might wanna use the "?" on your keyboard. because without it, you just look like youre complaining that you dont get your way anymore. perhapse if you were here and paying attention BEFORE this happened, youd understand that it hasnt always been this way.

overall I think the whole operation of the site needs a second look at.

and i think you aren't giving Rich enough credit. you think he simply woke up one morning and decided to cut the ability to post in ads? maybe had a cup 'o' joe and talked about it with his wife? a decision as a couple perhaps? or is it more feasible that he considered this for a while, and had enough?

And a better way to enforce the rules other than completly blocking people with uptight moderators!

Look at other websites and forums. They are run alot better than this.

then go to them and quit bitching here. if this is such a bad site/forum, why are you even bothering with complaining about it? is it MAYBE because you just want to be heard and have your 5 min of fame? wish granted i guess

As for the door, i'm sure you could find it usefull as well sir. You seem to forget that this is the enternet, not real life.

no, i know full well this is the "enternet". i think itd be rather difficult to write all this on a post-it and stick it where you can read it. might take two?

We as people choose to sit behind a computer screen with made up identity for a reason. Not everyone is here to spam or cause chaos. I for one don't think it is neccesary to post my actual location to the entire world along with my real full name to post an animal for sale.

"we as people" choose to post our real names and locations to show were serious about this site, and this hobby (at least i do) if you want to use a made up identity, then go play an MMORPG or something. not be a part of a forum. your information is fallacy? shows your true character.

This is the enternet as I stated before. And you sir don't need to be so dam uptight about a simple issue.

Now good day.

you lying about your name and location is a simply issue that no one needs to worry about? oh ok. didnt know that wasnt an issue

is it good day? because it says youre in cali, and its 3:06 AM here. i know. im ACTUALLY in cali.

 

[WebSlave]

Quite frankly your attitude in the matter isn't needed.

I had a simple question. overall I think the whole operation of the site needs a second look at. And a better way to enforce the rules other than completly blocking people with uptight moderators! Look at other websites and forums. They are run alot better than this. As for the door, i'm sure you could find it usefull as well sir. You seem to forget that this is the enternet, not real life. We as people choose to sit behind a computer screen with made up identity for a reason. Not everyone is here to spam or cause chaos. I for one don't think it is neccesary to post my actual location to the entire world along with my real full name to post an animal for sale. This is the enternet as I stated before. And you sir don't need to be so dam uptight about a simple issue.

Now good day.

OK, so what criteria is used to determine how a site is run? What do you use as a yardstick for that measurement? Merely what you LIKE?

If it is merely your own personal OPINION, then unless this is supported by a majority, then perhaps YOU are just not in synch with the majority with your opinion. In every determination of any rating system on how well a website (and in particular, message board systems) traffic and membership totals are the primary criteria that is used to determine how well they are doing. Taking a look at the stats here compared to all those "other sites", any rational person would have to admit that this site isn't doing half bad. Numbers tell the story, not what a few in a minority position THINK about the situation.

It may just very well be that THIS site is not for YOU. It happens. I'll survive it. Hopefully you will too.

Also, I assume from your statements that you are using a false name and false location in your profile here. Sorry, but you cannot remain on this site under that condition. Those are rules for participating here, and I am not going to KNOWINGLY allow any exceptions. I have stated my reasons for having such rules, and I am sticking by them. You, then, are knowingly flaunting those rules and LYING to everyone who reads the posts you make and refers to your profile for your TRUE identity. You have 24 hours to comply with PROOF of your identity or you are gone from here. Sorry, but that is just the way it is here on this "struggling" message board site.

And you have a good day as well, sir.

 

[Miss Tuniwha]

Here is the biggest problem with forums these days. People tend to forget THIS IS REAL LIFE!!!! The Internet is not some dream world where we can create a whole new you of make believe. People who use it should be held accountable for how they use it.

A LOT of people seem to get forums and W.O.W. confused.. Your online Games, yes, you can have a false identity, because it is MAKE BELIEVE!!! THESE are REAL people,.. THIS.. IS.. REAL.. LIFE..

Ben.. if you can't even be honest about your name? Why the heck would we trust you with any more information?

YOU might not be a scammer.. but the next person might be.. so rules are here for a REASON.

oh.. and it is INTERNET!!! .. seriously.. not once, but twice? what the heck is ENternet?

Are people so lazy they can't just PM ?? that extra button click will waste their precious time??

People WILL end up with attitudes when they get sick of hearing the same ignorant babble thrown their way.

Oh.. and by the way.. OTHER sites have WAY more issues.. unless of course you mean those sites that DON"T deal with sales? Are you thinking of DISCUSSION forums?? THOSE are going to be different because peoples MONEY isn't at risk.

Think before you speak next time, or give some valid reasoning/proof.

 

[WebSlave]

My recommendation is that if someone finds out that a prospective buyer or seller is using a false location and/or name in their profile here, to simply steer clear of them. Yes, they MIGHT be legit and feel they have a legitimate reason for lying about that info here, but that is also a classic MO for scammers to use to avoid prosecution for their scams. You can't prosecute someone that you can't accurately identify and/or locate. And they KNOW that.

So if someone engages in a transaction with you, and you receive identifying info from the OP that does NOT match their profile, please report them. If they are in violation of the rules of this site, then we do intend to do something about it. If you go ahead and do business with them anyway, than possibly we'll all be reading about your deal gone bad in the BOI pretty soon.

 

[akonitony]

"Rabidly opposed"?

Exaggerate much?

I've told 'em a million times to stop exaggerating.

 

[oddlot]

I don't entirely understand.I have never had any infractions so why am I being penalized?What do I have to pay for to post on a classified ?So if an infraction offender pays then they can post,Which doesn't fix anything, just doesn't make sense to me.It should be all or none!If someone is disruptive or harassing they should be punished not everyone!

 

[Katie.Shinkle]

*sigh* Read the entire thread, that has already been discussed. They tried that (hence the infractions...) but it wasn't working, and it was too much work for the mods to handle.

Paid members get perks (part of contributing...duh), this just so happens to be one of them now (unless they start messing up). Which, again, was already discussed.