Likes

Marty,

 

The algorithm that determines one's community rank here remains a mystery to me.  I guess it's one of those "nice to have" features here on the forum, but generally speaking I think it's a meaningless number.  I sometimes use the rank to see if a member has been around for awhile -- especially for an unfamiliar seller on the for-sale forum.  But the forum also indicates a member's "join date", which serves a similar purpose.

 

I guess this whole "like" thing is a carry over from Facebook, of which I am no big fan.  Yes, Facebook serves a purpose in this modern world of social media.  But software that tries to mimic Facebook garners no special points with me.  OTOH, I think it's perfectly legitimate for members to indicate their agreement with a forum post, as long as it's something they sincerely agree with.

 

Just rambling here I guess... but there will always be folks who try to figure out "the system" for there own benefit.  Yet I've never understand the benefit of a community ranking per se.  Does anybody really care? 

 

Generally speaking, the cream of the crop in any community/organization always rises to the top.  And folks quickly pick up who the dedicated and valuable community members are -- just by what they post. 

 

For the record, I don't need a community rank "number" determined by some mysterious software algorithm to tell me who's up there near the top.  And by the way, glad to see you're right up there in the community ranking!    Thanks for all you do to contribute so much to this hobby.  

 

David

I don't worry about my community ranking.

 

I thought the idea behind the "likes" was indicating that you agree or appreciate the post without clogging things up with a "nice post" comment.

I appreciate when somebody "likes" one of my comments.

Marty & David, can't you understand that the only life some people have is the "thrill" of having a lot of posts?  Let them get their thrill; it may be all they will have.

 

But I agree that likes shouldn't count as posts

 

 

[Marty, I'm being sarcastic.]

 

Added:  Marty, I tried to post a "like" for your post but couldn't find a spot to click on.

I'd prefer to see rankings and points not displayed at all for anyone.  Let these guys use facebook or whatever for their jollies.

As long as there is status, there will be status seekers, but I don't think they pose any threat to the forum. Yes Marty, it's a little annoying.

 

I see Jack's post is gone, probably just as well on this, as he singled out a member by name. I have been the recipient of some of that "over the top love" in the past so I can't really complain. There have been others who have fallen into that category.

 

I think the like button is a really useful tool when it isn't abused.

 

I use it for two specific purposes: one because I genuinely like the post, I agree with it, or think it's funny, or it says what I would want to say without actually saying it.

 

The second reason is more interesting though, and that is to signal the poster that I read the post and that I replied. That way they can go back to the topic through their alert, see what I said, and perhaps continue the conversation.

 

I've noticed that there's a new technique out there where the topic starter will put a like on all the responses. I don't see this as status seeking, but rather that they've read the post and a little thanks for the reply.

I agree with this statement, when I post a picture I appreciate seeing the likes. Nice way of saying hey nice job without having to add to the discussion.  Can you imagine the length of What did you do on your layout today or the Weekend Photo Fun if every like turned into a post. 

 

I do agree with Marty that some do it just to boost their ranking.  The ideal situation would be if "likes" didn't factor into this and you could just like something because you truly appreciate the comment or the picture.  

I agree with Elliot and Bryan statement! I think some you guys have a bad attitude!  

Guys/Gals, I have liked many of the great posts you folks put up.   I have learned a great deal from the posters.  Some of what comes up on the forum can not be taught in any school.  I am retired and have the time to learn.  Most of us all feel if a person does nothing but like to see his numbers change, something is going on.  I send many members an email on things they have posted and I am sure a positive comment through an email means more than someone wacking a post to help his numbers.  I have a lower number and feel like I may have done my best to contribute to the forum and give help if I have knowledge on a subject.  I do not care about a number.  I threw this post out wondering if I was the only member that thought that way.

 

Bob, I agree with you about facebook.  Not my cup of tea.

There is a "Like this Topic" link to the right of the original post in any thread.  Right side, just below the banner ad section.

In my opinion the "likes"are a pat on the back or nice job. As far as liking everything to get a lower community ranking whatever floats you boat. A low community ranking does not increase the wisdom of a topic in a  member's post. 

I think Marty you are one of the best Forum members and answer question trying to help that person get there train fixed or helping them in trouble shooting.

I also understand sometimes we all get disgusted because the member you are trying to help doesn't even listen to what you suggest. the bottom line is you usually find out later the your suggestion would have helped them fix there problem much quicker.

The occasional wise crack from some people don't help the forum.

Keep up the good work Marty and good luck with your new B6 steamer!

Alan

 

 

I have leaned allot from many people on this forum from guys like you, GGG, Guns, Alex and others anytime I had a problem. It is these people that I give likes to for their helpful posts. 

 

This is a great forum and no matter what somebody posts it is worthy for him/her to post. Let's not discourage people from posting their thoughts, as long as it not out of bound subject listed by the moderators.  

 

In the scheme of things "likes" mean nothing, my rankings may be high because I have been here since the beginning but to me it means nothing. 

 

I agree with Alan's statement about Marty.  He has spent many hours analyzing a problem we discussed off-forum, and I know he has helped many others.

I just learned something new today by reading Marty's thread...I had no idea that "Likes" were factored into the Community Ranking!!  So now I must ask...WHY? 

 

I don't care a lick about members' Community Rankings, but I do like the ability to "like" something.  IMO, Marty's suggestion is a good one...don't count "Likes" in the Ranking calculation.

I was going to "like" this thread but then I did not want that to be taken the wrong way.........buahahaha! Seriously there are trolls everywhere and if this keeps the replies that are topic relevant then it is fine to me. 

It would be nice if there were a way to "like" a post with no intention of having it enhance your Forum standing/rank.  Sort of like in football when you win the toss but elect to "defer."  You "like" but reject the points!  Or "take no credit!"  

I only "like" things I actually like and try to contribute something in my comments. lots of times it only some smart remark intended to bring a smile but I do post often when it's relavent. I don't actually care about my number on the forum cuz I'm number 4 in real life.

I couldn't possibly care about my rank number or what ever you call it. If all some people have to worry about is what rank number they have on a toy train forum I think that's pretty SAD in itself. I feel more bad for them than anything else. I have learned many things on this forum and have made many friends.  I try to contribute and help out any forum member i can and not worry about some false status It may give me. 

I only "like" the topics and statements I "like". I do refrain on some I would like to "like" simply because I don't participate in that forum often enough to make a "like". I do however often feel the "like" is useful in a case where a post is a good response in my opinion and don't want to follow through and post a written reply. "Like" serves a purpose. I don't care if it's used to count towards my status or "rank".

I "like" this thread by the way.

I don't think I have ever done a "like".  If there has been a good model posted or

comment made, I may add a post, but often feel as though other comments are unnecessary given what has gone before.  I don't pay attention to "community ranking"??; that is set by the quality of models and comments seen in the posts.

I probably comment too much and add no content, but that is not because I was even

aware of some status symbol, about which I could not care less.  I am with Chris above.  Uh, Facebook has always sounded like something I'd avoid like the plague.

I may create a windstorm of "likes" with this comment but here goes anyway...

 

I was under a completely different impression about the LIKE option.  I thought it was nice to use because it added a particular topic to your list of things you had replied to. Likes are highlighted with a heart in your list which makes it VERY easy to find topics you want to refer back to.  Sort of like earmarking something for future reference.  On that basis, I will continue to click the little heart when I read something I want to keep track of and be able to get back to.

 

Just my 2 cents worth...

 

BTW Marty, I LIKE you and I LIKE your post here; so yes, I saved it with a heart  

 

Best,

Dave

Thanks Dave.

 I really didn't know what you're describing here. I would have thought that a "like" click of a topic or post, would only be a comment that it was a good thought. I should hope that if anything, it credits the poster of that, not the reader?

 There are some guys here, that when they speak, I just listen.

Marty, you are at the top of the list!

I can only say thanks for all your help and posts over the years. I base my understanding of control boards and systems, on what you post and say. Although you don't post as much as some others here, it means more to me when you say something, than most others combined.

 Again thanks for sharing your years of talent!

Here is a helpful hint.  There are 23 reply's to this post and I just liked everyone.

Methinks some of you protest too much

Well said Elliot...These are the reasons I use the click LIKE!

 

Jeff Davis

Carl; very well put.

I know I'm guilty of using the like button a lot. While I also comment from time to time I like to aknowledge a good post or photo. When I get likes on a post of mine, I know that I appreciate them as well. I'm ok with taking the points away for the likes but don't take the likes away.

While were on this subject how about people who respond thanking posters individually with a separate post for each thank you instead of just 1!!

 

It would appear that if the webmaster were to arrange with the server operator to not have likes count as posts, everyone would be happy except those for whom being #1 or thereabouts is their life, and then a "like" would be meaningful.

 

 

---He who dies with the most posts, is dead.--Anon

Wholeheartedly agree!

 

I have no idea what my own 'community ranking' on this forum is, but I can assure anyone that it has absolutely nothing to do with my own self-esteem.  Rankings have their place...like in the military, where they provide for structure and discipline.  They can be useful in sports, also...helping to determine contestant pairings that will have similar competitive abilities.

 

But in an information/help forum regarding this hobby???

 

Besides, "Rank" has more than one meaning, one of which is more descriptive of the deteriorated discourse of some of these threads.

 

Rankings are simply a form of metrics....applying numbers to performance.  Frankly, if a metric....especially one that's prominently posted...is not understood for its value, it's worthless.  (Just MHO, mind you)  Unfortunately, metrics have become not only ubiquitous and commonplace in today's world, for better or for worse they drive EVERYTHING!.....Egos/self-esteem, performance assessment, salaries/wages, promotions, rules/laws, media programming, opinions, war propaganda, health decisions, talking points, etc., etc., etc., blah, blah, blah.   Metrics are part of the voracious diet of our numbers-crunching world.  And, sadly, without knowing how metrics are achieved, they often are of little-to-none, dubious at best, value.....again, IMHO.

 

Community Ranking=Puffery?

 

KD

 

My thought is that it can be a useful tool. I am particularly fond of postwar dealer displays, history, and the like, and when someone posts something related to those things, I want to show my appreciation. As to others just hoping to get their numbers higher, if that's the case, it bothers me not. I've got plenty going on in life outside this site, and I can't let something so inconsequential bother me. If that's how they get their jollies, so be it- I'll do my own thing to get mine.

I disagree with the whole "Like" concept, especially if it increases the posters ranking/count. Too bad there isn't a "Dislike" feature if there has to be a "Like" feature.

 

Also, there are certain members/posters that continually "run their count up" but posting one or two word responses to many, many, many posts throughout the day, without contributing anything to the subject.

OK...I'll chime in here now even though my opinion "likely" will not count.  As far as I am concerned, I would do away with the point system completely. Posts and likes would not receive any points at all.  If a member wants to like another member's post they could like it or post a response to it or...whatever but they would not receive points for doing so.  After all, if you REALLY "like" a thread or comment, then why do you need to be awarded for letting that person know? Unfortunately, that is not human nature it seems.......

 

Many forums like this one have a point system and/or designated achievement levels.  Marketing studies tell us the reason for doing so is because there are a significant number of members that receive gratification when they are awarded points and "titles" as this establishes in their mind as having a position within the community.  Believe it or not the analysts tell forum owners / administrators that this is an important component in traffic count and that points, designations, and other forms of awards encourage members to post more often.  There has been plenty of research on this topic and the conclusion indicates that rankings within a forum community are important in the minds of a large number of its members and thus encourages the membership to be more active since a side goal is to achieve a higher ranking and establishing a certain level of importance.

 

When you think about it, this is no different than how folks establish themselves within any community.  Folks get actively involved in their community for a variety of reasons.  Some because they genuinely want to make a difference, others because they have their own agenda.  You can look at the OGR Forum as a small city made up of a melting pot of many different kinds of citizens all having their own needs and desires.  Some come here to learn, some to share, and some for other reasons that they only know....

 

Alan  

 

(emphasis and trimming mine)

 

That sums it up very well!

 

As to the use of the Like, I was guilty in the "Lionel mangled their website" thread, but not because I was trying to boost my number.  While I'm sure Lionel spent quite a bit of money on the upgrade and it's not going back from being "Tablet-ized", I figured added support for the problem descriptions was better than posting a bunch of times with "me too" (though I did post I think one reply to the topic).

 

I learned a little in this thread, it never occurred to me that people might be using it like a bookmark for favored topics as Dave Garman described.

 

If we are asking about pie in the sky functionality of the feature, I'd love for an easy way to see who did the liking for a given post (I don't think it's possible, but I may just not know how to do it). 

 

Going to individual profiles to see what people like is easy enough, but I want to see if someone posts something I suspect is probably smart, how many other smart people agree with it when there are "Likes".  On the flip side, if I think something is suspect, I might want to learn and say, "well if these 5 other people I believe know their stuff agree, maybe the poster is right".

 

-Dave

I know on other forums I frequent, post count is taken the same way as points here, with high post counts providing almost a respect for certain members. 

We must be in the Dog Days of summer. 

.don't count "Likes" in the Ranking calculation.

 

Larry

I have to say that my topic likes, and my individual likes, were simply to let people know I think they are doing a fantastic job! For me, it's been great the times someone liked my comment or post and that is all there is to it. Terry

I have been a member since December 2010.  What do I get for my points?  Is there a catalog or something I missed?  It's seems some people have too much time on their hands and have to whine about everything.  Maybe the Forum should publish a list of every member and show their ranking.  Last I checked I was listed as 202.  Still have no idea what that gets me.

Dave Garmin's post is interesting.  I wasn't aware that there is a list of things I had responded to and I could "bookmark" them with a heart.  I'll have to try to find it.

 

In that vein, in the lower right hand corner off each post is a "permalink" icon.  What does that do?

I have not looked at my profile page since I updated it two plus years ago adding I’m retired.  This topic got me interested in knowing just what my community rank is.  I don’t do a lot of posts because I stick to topics I know about and that I think will add substance to the forum (I try to stay away from subjective comments).  So I thought my ranking would be low but it turned out higher than I thought because I guess of all the “likes” I have done.

 

Out of curiosity, I checked the ranking of most of the people posting on this topic and saw some who had a very high ranking with very few “likes”, and some with a high ranking with nearly all “likes”.  I understand the metrics issue for the forum sponsors, but "likes" seem to be too easy to do to be counted as participation.  So here is one of my few subjective comments:  If you are going to have a ranking system based on participation, than it should be based on posts only.  And hopefully those post will have useful and helpful comments, or be fun like the various photo topics (I do a lot of “likes” there). 

 

Something else that might be good:  change the algorithm so that if someone does a great post and gets a lot of “likes” for it, the poster gets the credit.  Quality should count as much as quantity.

I like the "likes" and unlike the dislikers...I don't worry about my "community rating."  If people want to like something that should be their choice.  If they get brownie points for it...good for them...who cares.  Just enjoy the model train forum for what it is.  Matt

Personally, I'd be quite happy to see them do away with the community ranking ratings.  It doesn't take long to see who's contributing and who's not, why the need to score? 

I totally agree with this suggestion.

For anyone keeping track grj is number 1, HW is ranked 7th.

 

 

everyone who responds to a thread contributes to the forum. 

Sometimes their response upsets the people who think they are in charge

Agreed.  Remember for a short time when everyone had engineer or fireman next to there name etc.  Then some got all in a huff because they weren't a conductor or what ever!  Childish nonsense!  Just have a member since whatever year and do away with the rest of it. 

So, the solution is simple: "Like" every single post on all of the forums. 

 

This way you increase your own stature and deplete everyone else's...

 

Rusty

OT, but since it's short I'll answer.

 

The permalink gives you a http address that links directly to a post within the thread as opposed to the thread starting (or subsequent) pages.

 

-Dave

Alan!...great comments!....I like them very much.  But, I ain't gonna push the 'Like' button lest I fall into the metrics quagmire.

 

Talk about fertile fodder for psycho-babble!.....

 

So I have a question for the OGR staff.....

 

Based on the commentary of this thread, what value do YOU believe the calculated/posted Community Ranking number brings to the forum...the community....NOT the individuals who make up the community.

 

And, what I'm looking for is what YOU perceive the value of the CR number to be...NOT what the salespersons/research 'experts'/metrics advocates say you should regard to be the value.  And that, especially, in the light of this thread and its comments.

 

 

To some extent yes. But our #1 and others didn't "get there" by liking others content.

It was from contribution, and other liking their posts as well.

 

I like the "like". For social "nods", and critique use both.

I don't see a dislike as being productive as much as being provocative.

It's abuse could be "devastating", vs just silly.

  

 The overall ranking is a curious bit of nonsense to me.

I've been watching it out of curiosity as to how it worked.

 My attention was drawn to it by a talented (but somewhat angry) new-comer that wanted to know what the key to getting likes here was.

 I was truly surprised as my own ranking was in the top 100.

 

There are a lot of folk that deserve to be ranked over me for sure.

 

  "He" was well liked on FB, and didn't understand why the feedback here, wasn't at that level. I don't think he rose in rank fast enough for his taste, and eventually left us ???.

 

So, in close, its both a draw, and a negative I think we can do without  

 

I suspect they are stuck with it.  (The researchers / salespeople / metric takers do these evaluations for forums in general, not this one.)

 

Even before the migration to this forum software, there was at least once when a "reset" caused post counts to vanish (some people were horrified, others didn't care).  At the time, the OGR staff seemed to say "good riddance" to the counts.  Then there was the whole Engineer/Conductor/Brakeman thing a while back that got canned (which was probably a good thing).

 

This is probably one of those "unless you want to write your own forum software you are stuck with it to some level" deals.

I joined in Sept. 2000 and and are amazed how many people who joined around the same time are still posting now. 

 

Goes to show what a great forum this is. Can't believe it has been 15 years. 

 

Well, sometimes I view this as a completion, it was surprising that from Friday evening to Saturday Morning my rank went from high 590s to 515-521 the next morning. I don't look as my rank as something to be proud of, I believe that your rank shows how much you contribute to the forum, and passing on the Knowledge you learned to others in the hobby.

That's Marty's original topic/gripe.  Clicking "Like" 1000 times (not referring to you, Tim) doesn't contribute much of anything, especially when it's done in a blanket sort of way like the person who is "Liking" every single post in this thread.  I'm pretty sure at this point he's doing it to make a point (and has tons of free time on his hands).

 

Though some have illustrated good rationale, using it as a sort of personal favorites so they don't rely on the browser, which is perfectly reasonable IMO.

 

There's absolutely nothing that can be done about it though. It works the way it works.  It's the equivalent of people on eBay getting upset that people "watch" their auctions and don't bid.

 

OK

Let me get hammered here probably.

 

I always look at the ranking when:

 

I'm on the for sale forum buying something.

 

I'm taking the information into consideration for  project I'm working on.

 

AND, I ALWAYS SUBTRACT THE RED HEARTS.

 

I do really like the ability to LIKE a members post. Just me.

 

Larry

Marty,

I imagine that you had no idea of just how many forum members share your sentiments. I appreciate your doing so, Thank you!

Over the years I had no desire to join or even participate in the forum. After all how many collectors of prewar Std Gauge are there? In the short while I've been here I have enjoyed the kinship of the forum. When I read the post of a member offering good advice, I click on the Like button. There are those like yourself who offer operational tips and first class repair knowledge.

To everyone who has offered their assistance these past years I have clicked on the Like button. It is what it is and if it offends you take a chill pill. 

 I was walking thru Ridge Road Station and looking for any help on my MTH products. They said they had looked into them, but at that time didn't carry them. They told me about something called the OGR and said maybe they knew about the G scale stuff too. At that time I didn't know Ray Manley (MTH G gauge guru) yet and didn't know where else to turn.

 So I came here lurking around to find help. I saw posts about "magic Light" bulbs and knew that might be some help. I read all the posts about signal I could grasp from guys here like Marty F. There wasn't any book yet for help (Barry's), so I kept a list of stuff that seemed to be like "rules" for good signal strength. Posters kept coming back with more and better ideas and understanding of what I too was seeing.

 There were some significant advancements over time, like the original bulb idea, Susan's filters, the new "L" TIU version, and much better lists of known bugs in the software. It took someone like Barry to actually make a printed copy that you could bank on the info inside.

 All this info and help was readily available here for free from guys willing to spend their time to help you. Even my Lionel TMCC engines had issues that I was unsure of, that got spelled out here and the cures.

 I think the thing that bothers me the most, is the passing of some great people and how limited our time here can be. Some others, just lost their patience or interest after struggles, and left. Some of them demanded more credit for their participation.

 I can only speak out again to thank all the people who make this a great forum. I thank the moderators for their time and expertise in keeping certain personalities inline, and making this site so enjoyable.

Hi Marty & Members

     You Tube and Facebook, both have “Like Buttons” They are each worth over five billion dollars each. The “Like Button” on You Tube, Facebook and the OGR Forum, is a method used to sell advertising.

     Take away the Like Button and the Activity Points, there is a risk to advertising dollars.

     Remember this fact - 62% of people on the web are now on a smart phone or iPhone, for me checking the “Like” is faster then typing a comment, this is a complex process on a Smart Phone.

     I would encourge the OGR Management not to change the rules.

Great comments guys.  I often wondered what view on the situation others had.  It is what it is.  If someone who has been helpful to other members has a low number, it is what it is.  If someone has been no help to anyone at all with a lower number, it is what it is.   When a member is reaching out for assistance, they know after time who to ask.  I have a lower number and would have no problem if the number is removed.  

 

The OGR forum is the best in the hobby and is run by good people who know what they are doing.  Most of the forum members are very helpful to each other.  Walking the halls at York is fun when we meet members/friends and it is always great to say hello to new members and put a face to a name.  I have always opened my home to all OGR forum members.  Many have visited.

Says the one who's ranked Number 1  

 

I didn't even know there was rankings until I saw this thread and started looking at my ranking and others.  yeah, they should be done away with.  To many egos already.  LOL

Not everyone is a super scale railroader. Some just like trains, o gauge and 027. Some of us are on a tight budget and can't afford $2,000 engines but we like seeing post that show photo's or videos of them and they get a lot of likes, Some members are members for the for sale trade only.

Putting ranking numbers next to a member is silly. I never go out of my way to see a members "ranking" I could care less. I treat everyone the same. Some members may feel like they have to get their number down so other members think that they contribute. 

Everyone (I hope)is here for TRAINS and train related items.

This is a great place to learn and meet people weather its o gauge or 027, wind up or HO,

keep the forum but do away with the rankings. The only members who care may be members who need a low rating for their ego.   

I like trains

I think that for every "point" you get for liking something, the person with the "liked" post gets 2 or 3, so don't like too many from the same person or they'll pass you!

I'm Ok with things as they are. I'm very thankful that OGR apparently doesn't sell or pass on our email addresses to marketers or spammers. I consider that a point of integrity for OGR.

 

Now excuse me so I can check my ranking and fantasize as to how truly magnificent I am.

  

Ron H

I did not know how like tie into community points, nor do I care. Like some others, I tend to use it if I like a subject or response, especially if I have nothing to add.

 

Steve

Well said Steve, if I like a topic or the person reply I will like it. Other than that we have a lot of  good information and people on this forum to help us out in time of need.

The OGR forum is the best in the hobby and is run by good people who know what they are doing.  Most of the forum members are very helpful to each other.  Walking the halls at York is fun when we meet members/friends and it is always great to say hello to new members and put a face to a name.  I have always opened my home to all OGR forum members.  Many have visited.

Correct on the email addresses, and I'm glad you noticed.

 

As far as the "LIKES" and Community Rankings are concerned, if I could shut the rankings off, I would. I don't think they serve any positive, useful purpose. I have no idea what my Community Ranking is and don't care.

I only like topics that, well I like. I also use it to bookmark a topic, so I can go back to it later for reference in lieu of searching a 100 posts on the forum. 

 

Is there anyway to better bookmark topics?

 

Also, I could also care less about my "number". I am here to learn, get resources and ideas, and contribute.

 

Chris

Hmmm...how can I use this info to get the coveted 2037th or 2332cnd positions

As other posters have said they do, I tend to "like" a reply when it truly stands out to me and/or it exactly and completely addresses my points, leaving nothing new to add.  I usually don't care to leave a simple reply such as "agreed" or "+1".

 

If other posters "like" everything and that's what they enjoy doing here - doesn't bother me. 

2 pages of much ado about nothing.

 

Yet, you added to it.

 

Sure did.  See how silly that is.

Yet, you added to it.

Perhaps... but most marketing professionals also know they need to never take this "research" too seriously.  For the many years I worked in Corporate America, I took all this stuff with a grain of salt each and everyday.  It was a part of marketing we all knew existed, but I never gave it much credence.  Most of it was BS and only applied to a small minority of people.

 

David

David, how can you so deride the value of market research?  It is quite valuable!  For example, market research said the Edsel would be a success, and in fact Ford did sell some.

That concludes this thread for me!  Thanks, Rich!

 

KD

Well stated. I find a lot of great ideas here and find member posts to be motivating - I use it to build and improve my own layout. 

Well David...If you read my post carefully, I made the point that I would do away with the "like" and "rank" system here on the forum.  The purpose of the statement I made which you quoted was just to pass on to others what research says goes on in the minds of many folks.  It didn't say "ALL" folks but the number is significant enough that it does have merit.  Nearly every major blog/website uses some sort of "like", "reward" or "ranking" system and it seems to reinforce membership participation when compared to those that don't have that kind of system.

 

Bottom line, a lot of folks enjoy being complimented (liked) and being "ranked" high as a member of a forum and will respond with more participation when they feel good about the community in which they are a member.  The "system" has found a way to do that whether we "like" it or not!

That's a good thoughtful answer, Alan.  Obviously a number of members fit in that category, if the OP and others have noticed their busy activity (which I never did).

Gentlemen,

    I never knew there was a ranking here on the OGR, probably on the bottom of that

section for sure!  Please reference the saying at the end of all my posts, live by it and you will never need to look at any kind of ranking any where, at any time.  The Supreme Architect does the ranking nobody else.

PCRR/Dave

Dave

You have a very good ranking (20). I also might add you never like anything.

 

That's not being mean David just meaning you are a very good contributor to the forum with no funny little hearts. That is neither bad or good . It's just our individual positive efforts to the forum.

 

IMO, Alan is a very intelligent individual. When he makes this statement,  It makes sense to me. I didn't say I like it, I said it makes sense.

 

"Bottom line, a lot of folks enjoy being complimented (liked) and being "ranked" high as a member of a forum and will respond with more participation when they feel good about the community in which they are a member.  The "system" has found a way to do that whether we "like" it or not!"

 

 

Wow , we sure are having fun with this topic Marty.

 

Larry

Thanks Marty, now all I can think about is my ranking

Since another one of my hobbies is photography, a lot of my "likes" are for a good photograph (exposure, composition, lighting, creativity and thought behind the pic.) So being able to like a photograph to me is a pat on the back for the photographer. Just my 2¢ which is about all it's worth.
Ray.

Given Rich's response earlier, it doesn't appear that any meaningful change to the ranking system is possible. 

 

I use the "like" feature frequently for all of the valid reasons expressed by others, and also when Adman starts a thread announcing a new forum sponsor (and I usually include a "welcome aboard" reply in the thread).  If a ranking system is necessary, I'd prefer one that gave ranking credit ONLY to the member who supplied the reply or thread that is "liked" and not to the member clicking the "like" button. 

Thankfully, no locomotives or rolling stock were harmed in the making of this thread. :-)

I'm guessing I shouldn't like this thread then............ 

 

Actually I use the like at times as a tracking tool.  Nothing to say but I may want to come back to the topic.   A bit off on it's purpose I realize but it works.

I never knew what the "ranking" was all about and now that I know, I want to forget.

Yes, good idea.  How then do you later look for a topic?  Pull up your profile and look through the red hearts? 

 

I think you can turn those hearts off so you can see the rest???

Check you profile settings? "Alerts" if I remember right..