{Misc Support} Subscription for Contributors?

[LeAnn B]

Has there ever been any thought to giving free subscriptions to media contributors? Like if they contribute over a certain amount of images they get a free membership? Just wondering if that would ever be an option? Or would that make too many people eligible for free membership and not be profitable?

LeAnn

[[Admin] danroth]

It's something that we've talked about, and we haven't ruled out. We'd really like some way to thank and reward folks who contribute to the community in this way.

However, there's two big obstacles we need to overcome.
1) We want to encourage EVERYONE to contribute. If people see that there is a reward for contributing a lot, many will stop contributing a little because they can't hope to achieve that reward.
2) Lots of people would contribute quantity-not-quality images in order to get the free PRO membership.

We're open to discussing it. As I said, we'd really like to reward people who contribute significantly. The question is how to do it in a way which helps the community rather than hurting it.

[LeAnn B]

I can see your point. I'm not sure how it could be implemented successfully but I hope you're able to come up with something for us po' folk

[tedanderson]

The question is how to do it in a way which helps the community rather than hurting it.

How about making people apply for complementary Pro Membership? e.g. the application would say, "I am applying for Complementary Pro Membership because ___________" and then another statement/question would say, "I have contributed to this site in the following ways:________________"

And then the staff can make a decision. Keep it all confidential so that you do not arouse any jealous or hard feelings. The same way that you have selected moderators for this site, I see no harm in using this same type of selection process.

Also when you use this method, you safely prevent a mindset of entitlement. Like on another forum that I participate in, there was a guy who contributed a whole library of technical manuals, detailed diagrams, photos, etc.. which was very GOOD and much needed info. But then he decided that he was exempt from some of the rules and to make a long story short, it got ugly. So I can understand why you wouldn't want to just base it on contributions alone.

And then also take into consideration that if you use the confidential application process, you don't necessarily have to explain your decisions.

[frokey]

I love the idea, but you're right, there are definitely some issues to consider. I think Ted has a good idea about keeping everything confidential. Whatever you come with (if anything), please let me know. I'm in the 'Po' camp with LeAnn!!

[[Admin] danroth]

Unfortunately, since the economy tanked, CMN is in the "Po" camp too!