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Posted: 1/5/2003 9:16:38 AM EDT
[#1]
Finally... (phew!)
Quoted: OK, probably the #1 issue of bandwidth and resource consumption on this website is the General Discussion Forum, am I right? Here's what we can do to significantly reduce those issues: Basically, yes. The GD is the SINGLE highest point of traffic. [=)] a) Since most of the threads are current events or just plain silliness (nothing wrong with that), then if a thread has no activity for 3 days...take it off. Why should there be 76 pages of threads? Probably GD is the only one that needs this done to it. A lot of people don't get to their threads within 3 days... it's hard to set a number for this. [=(] b) DO NOT ARCHIVE GENERAL DISCUSSION. Again, most of it is current events or silly topics, so there is no need to archive it and/or have the SEARCH function scroll through it. Any truly important topics can be archived manually, right? This actually goes with a) as taking a post "off" really means deleting it and all the replies out of the database. I don't mind trashing it, but I think a LOT of others might. The reason being that there's a GREAT information exchange in the GD. How to replace a furnace, how to rewire your house, how to fix an engine, why Clinton is an ass, etc. Trying to say those posts are not important is pushing your feelings about them onto everyone else. While the GD is the biggest BW hog, it's also something unique. It's where we all come together to talk, bullshit, tell jokes, share stories, expose our personal lives, ask for support, and so much more! Damn, you name it, it's in there!!! To simply shut it down because it's a burden would take away from something which is beneficial to keeping the family atmosphere here. Think of it like this... if you take away humor, emotion, and support from your family, you'll be left with your in-laws... who wants that! [=D] c) Don't let SEARCH scroll through GD. Why? Because if you keep it to only current topics, people should be able to scroll through the pages and find what they need (heck, use your Browser's "Search" feature). One item on my list is activating search for the EE (until the new EE goes into place), and perhaps the content based boards like AR, AK, etc. We'll see where things go from here, but in the end the archive server is going to be the greatest factor in helping to relieve the strain. d) Kill a GD thread at 4 pages. If people really are interested in that topic, let them start a continuation topic so that the old stuff can be taken off and go the way of the DoDo bird ala point "b". Yeah, see a) and b) comments! Second idea has to do with the disdain for pop-up advertising. I hate it too...that is what's brilliant! Allow advertisers to pay for pop-up advertising. BUT, if you are a member, you are not subjected to pop-ups (this way, free surfers have to deal with it, payers don't). Popups = bad. I would only do this if it was a last ditch effort to get more advertisers. Third idea has to do with cutting back the number of Boards and Forums. Create links to other web sites that can fulfill these questions...but make them pay a nominal fee for it! And, if they want a banner or to be put at the top of a links list, charge them a bit higher fee! Forums and boards don't generate BW usage, the traffic which people create do. Every click on the site, regardless of where it is, is what takes up resources and BW. The basic problem is we're outgrowing what we have in place. The network, the servers, etc. Imagine the power you have in your PC. Now imagine a second PC sharing the workload! We're working through everything the best we can, it just takes patience and support from all of you. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 9:54:37 AM EDT
[#2]
Quoted: Take a little ownership in something you enjoy and take some of the burden off my back. If not, that's fine too, but don't rip into me because of it. I'm doing the best I can FOR YOU. [=)] Thank you GB. The above statement is what it all boils down to. I will admit that the thought of $60 per year was a little daunting and was the primary motivating factor in my not joining the team for the last year or so. When the search function was gone during the DC shootings (I refuse to insult snipers throughout the world), I missed it. I was also glad to see it come back and understood the reason for only allowing it for paid members in the interim. When the bronze membership option was offered, I considered it a very low cost way of maintaining some of the features I use (primarily the search function). I had no need for picture hosting and the email services as I run my own web and mail servers at home. The $20 membership option allowed me to contribute to the sight while maintaining my usage of the functions I find most important. On fact that has been brought up before but not in this thread that I've seen is that having to pay for the search function will likely eliminate the random anti-gunners from browsing to the site and performing searches for statements they can twist and use to further their agenda. This fact alone is worth the $20...not just for me, but for [b][red]all of us[/red][/b]. As GB stated above, take a little personal responsibility for the resources you use on the site. Personal accountability is rapidly going the way of the dinosaur in today's society. Typically, the pro-second amendment crowd are some of the few who still hold themselves and others accountable for their actions. I guess it all boils down to the fact that this thread makes me [puke] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:30:29 AM EDT
[#3]
Who's the idiot that made that decision? You want to cut back on bandwidth you have a search function. Otherwise you have a bunch of people asking for stuff that would be covered by a search function and thus more bandwidth wasted.
I've never heard of charging money for a Search function. Totally defeats the purpose. The people who plunk down for membership won't be using the search function anywhere near the casual users who come here only when they need information (which would be most members). |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:35:40 AM EDT
[#4]
Don't get things confused... it's not BW use in question, it's server resources. (More specifically DB resources.)
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:38:31 AM EDT
[#5]
Quoted: Who's the idiot that made that decision? You want to cut back on bandwidth you have a search function. Otherwise you have a bunch of people asking for stuff that would be covered by a search function and thus more bandwidth wasted. I've never heard of charging money for a Search function. Totally defeats the purpose. The people who plunk down for membership won't be using the search function anywhere near the casual users who come here only when they need information (which would be most members). I would be the idiot that recommended the tiered membership and limiting the search function. The Administrator if this site would be the "idiot" who decided it needed to be done. I would kindly suggest you not bite the hand that feeds you... You pay nothing to play here, if you are going to play here than play by the site's rules and show a little respect to those who let you ride along for free. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:45:07 AM EDT
[#6]
Quoted: I would be the idiot that recommended the tiered membership and limiting the search function. The Administrator if this site would be the "idiot" who decided it needed to be done. I would kindly suggest you not bite the hand that feeds you... You pay nothing to play here, if you are going to play here than play by the site's rules and show a little respect to those who let you ride along for free. I'd gladly contribute to this site on its merits for $20 a year if the mods would cut down on the censorship (I'd even pay $50 per year). But saying I have to pay it just to have a search function? You can KMA. Things like spellcheck I can understand, they are totally non-essential and besides you can just compose them online in your favorite word processor. IMs, too; just too costly and unnecessary. But an essential service like Search? After the BRC fiasco I figured AR15.com would die in the next year or so (if that). Maybe I was being too generous. BTW Goatboy the "My topics" function doesn't seem to be working; none of the topics I've posted in today are showing up there. Is it just me? |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:48:09 AM EDT
[#7]
Quoted: Quoted: Oh, boy, I cant wait for the pop up ads to start playing on the site. Money, Money, Money....[banghead] I have an idea. If the money is what it is all about, lets see the costs of running the site, versus what income is recieved from the advertisers and membership dues etc. I would be interested in seeing that, as would many other people on this site. [BS2] Maybe the owners of this [b]private[/b] site will see fit to release this [b]private[/b] information. Of course, it would be helpful, and a good example for [b]you[/b] to release [b]your[/b] private financial info also, so that we can assess [b]your[/b] financial decisions as well. This [b]private[/b] site is appearing like a business to me, and therefore, should open the books. Let's see, there is an online store in the works right? Membership dues? Yup, looks like a business to me. I dont run a business, and dont need to post my financial info here. Glad to see it got tacked, so I could find it again.[;D] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 10:52:59 AM EDT
[#8]
Private businesses without stock holders need only open their books to the IRS and any state or local taxing authorities... nobody else has any right to look at them, period! Go to the local grocer that is privately owned and try telling them that you deserve to look at his books because you buy your groceries there. He will likely tell you to go stimulate yourself anally, and he would be perfectly justified in doing so!
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:14:57 AM EDT
[#9]
Just guessing, but arent income statements and tax filing records collected by the IRS public record, No?
If it's not a business, what is it? Charity?(Idea!!!!) I have no problem with paying for a membership (saving now), but I get irked a bit with the knee jerk reactions I get from NONSTAFF when I ask to see basic income/output info regarding this site, which very much appears to be a business, money making or not. I'm not trying to make something out of nothing, and simply would be interested in seeing what my money will go to, should I decide to cough it up. The original question posed by Tailgate was whether or not the elimination of the search feature is self-destuctive. Obviously it is, creating more users online for longer times, looking for stuff. It's also got us pissing in each others yards. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:18:49 AM EDT
[#10]
Quoted: Just guessing, but arent income statements and tax filing records collected by the IRS public record, No? As an officer of a State tax authority I can tell you that you are 100% wrong. In fact, if I reveal a business's or individual's tax records I get prosecuted and face a jail term. An incorporated charity or not-for-profit is another matter since they enjoy tax exempt status. The website does not fit into either category. The records of AR15.com are not public record and that is the definitive word on this matter. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:24:44 AM EDT
[#11]
Quoted: Quoted: Just guessing, but arent income statements and tax filing records collected by the IRS public record, No? As an officer of a State tax authority I can tell you that you are 100% wrong. In fact, if I reveal a business's or individual's tax records I get prosecuted and face a jail term. An incorporated charity or not-for-profit is another matter since they enjoy tax exempt status. The website does not fit into either category. The records of AR15.com are not public record and that is the definitive word on this matter. I stand corrected. You bring me to my next question, what category does this site fit in? [eyesclosedfingerscrossed]business?[/eyesclosedfingerscrossed] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:37:45 AM EDT
[#12]
Do you guys even read what you write?
This discussion is turning into a pathetic string of demands, accusations, and insults. If you don't like things the way they are, then take a break from them or go elsewhere. As I said before, would you prefer no site to no search? Who wins in that scenario? If the site made $10 million a year, would that make a difference in your outlook on $20 or search? To be honest, I don't think so. It's simple really, you are used to something and want it back. The matter of $20 is most likely nothing to you financially, it's all about your perception. I doubt you care what the money is used for or the work that gets done around here... if you did, you'd be up to date on the plans and changes ahead of time. (I post it in the News Forum and in here to keep everyone up to speed on everything from network issues, to code, to costs.) You are now faced with a decision: is it worth sticking around? is it worth $20? is it worth bitching about? Only you can decide, I'm not telling you to go one way or another. Since 96-97 we've been here and done our best, it's 2003 and things have changed. Such is life. I'm sorry if things suck, I TRULY am, but the more time I waste talking about it, the less time I have to change it. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:38:49 AM EDT
[#13]
Fair question, this is a privately held business from what I know of the site. Advertising fees are charged and memberships are sold. This falls under the category of revenue or accounts receivable. Just like the money you hand to the grocer for your weekly foodstuffs. As I said elsewhere, just because you hand the money to the grocer does not mean you have any right to examine his books.
Now, IF Goat offered up shares of the site on a public exchange, i.e. sold stock, than the books would be open to allow for due dilligence. Likewise, if he were to consider opening the site to private investors (note membership fees entitle you to usage, not to a stake in the business) they too would be allowed to examine the books as part of the due dilligence process. I repeat, paying to access the site is not the same as buying a share of the site, that can not be stressed enough. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:42:17 AM EDT
[#14]
I don't get it...it's only [b]$20[/b] a year! That's cheap as hell! Even [b]I[/b], the
cheapest bastard on the planet couldn't find a reason to bitch about that fee!! |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 11:56:02 AM EDT
[#15]
Quoted: I don't get it...it's only [b]$20[/b] a year! That's cheap as hell! Even [b]I[/b], the cheapest bastard on the planet couldn't find a reason to bitch about that fee!! Oh, I'll complain about anything. HR, appreciate the time for the answers. GB, the purpose of the site is info exchange, and although its a dead horse, I am allowed to beat it, no? Dont get me wrong, I appreciate all the things you do, albeit I have very little knowledge about what you do. (no search[;D])I do know however, that your work is resepected by those that do know what you do, and that is ALMOST good enough for me, but not quite. As HR said, the sites info is not available for disclosure, I have no choice to accept it, but it doesnt serve the site too well. Makes me a tad suspicious, but to each his own eh? As stated before, saving for GOLD! |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:03:55 PM EDT
[#16]
Quoted: I don't get it...it's only [b]$20[/b] a year! That's cheap as hell! Even [b]I[/b], the cheapest bastard on the planet couldn't find a reason to bitch about that fee!! Even better than that, you are defending the idea of play/pay. Maybe you should donate another $100 and see if we can turn you into a even finer more upstanding member. Haha, I said 'upstanding member'! |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:07:36 PM EDT
[#17]
Quoted: b) DO NOT ARCHIVE GENERAL DISCUSSION. Again, most of it is current events or silly topics, so there is no need to archive it and/or have the SEARCH function scroll through it. Any truly important topics can be archived manually, right? This actually goes with a) as taking a post "off" really means deleting it and all the replies out of the database. I don't mind trashing it, but I think a LOT of others might. The reason being that there's a GREAT information exchange in the GD. How to replace a furnace, how to rewire your house, how to fix an engine, why Clinton is an ass, etc. Trying to say those posts are not important is pushing your feelings about them onto everyone else. While the GD is the biggest BW hog, it's also something unique. It's where we all come together to talk, bullshit, tell jokes, share stories, expose our personal lives, ask for support, and so much more! Damn, you name it, it's in there!!! To simply shut it down because it's a burden would take away from something which is beneficial to keeping the family atmosphere here. I feel the need to comment on this. First, I am not saying it is not important to others. However, the VAST MAJORITY of the topics in GD are current events or jokes. I would venture to say the no one really cares about what happened 2 weeks ago, especially if the thread is dormant. Moreover, how many people would search on this forum for fixing their furnace? Unless you were the author of that thread, no one would think to search for something as obtuse as that on a Gun website. If it was your thread, then you better had copied the relevant information anyway! I honestly doubt cutting back the GD pages after a certain number of days of DORMANCY (heck, make it 10 days) will affect anyone, and will not harm the family atmosphere here. Odds are, if that subject were still hot someone would post a duplicate topic unwittingly anyway. Again, these suggestions ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE for the $20 membership...rather, suggestions on significantly impacting the BW and Resources of your site's IT Infrastructure. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:29:43 PM EDT
[#18]
Tailgate, my hope is that when the Archive server goes up, there will be no need for ANY data loss. It will give us the ability to save EVERYTHING and at the same time move it off the main site and onto a dedicated server and line. This means that machine may be slow or taxed, but that's just a part of life with it. As long as the site is fast and we can continue to grow and support it, then I'll be happy. [=)]
Thanks for taking the time to talk about ideas you had. I look forward to taking the discussion offline and seeing if we can come up with something I haven't thought of yet! [=)] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:32:42 PM EDT
[#19]
Quoted: GB, the purpose of the site is info exchange, and although its a dead horse, I am allowed to beat it, no? Dont get me wrong, I appreciate all the things you do, albeit I have very little knowledge about what you do. (no search[;D])I do know however, that your work is resepected by those that do know what you do, and that is ALMOST good enough for me, but not quite. As HR said, the sites info is not available for disclosure, I have no choice to accept it, but it doesnt serve the site too well. Makes me a tad suspicious, but to each his own eh? As stated before, saving for GOLD! I dont mind the discussion and I EXPECT to be questioned. My only problem has been the negativity and harshness of some of the posts. It really isn't going to help solve anything and it tends to occupy my time trying to explain things for everyone. [=)] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:37:23 PM EDT
[#20]
Tailgate,
If there is so much wrong with this site, why not find one that better suits you? I'm sure you would have a hard time finding a site that has an as dedicated administrator and as large a group of members who enjoy a range of interests. This is not just a gun forum, it's a community. I mean, come on, isn't this worth at least $20 to you? [b]I[/b] think so. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 12:47:39 PM EDT
[#21]
Ok, I have been here for a year. Signed up for the $60 membership after about a month of lurking and none team member.
During this period I have heard people BITCH about the cost of memberships. Goatboy and the rest of the staff come up with a reasonable alternative, and people still BITCH. $20 a year is not that big of a deal. So cough up the money and quit whining.[>Q] From a [;D] Goatboy, our doing a great job. Just remember the old saying: You can please some of the people some of the time, and all of the some of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time, or something like that. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 1:03:32 PM EDT
[#22]
Quoted: Tailgate, If there is so much wrong with this site, why not find one that better suits you? I'm sure you would have a hard time finding a site that has an as dedicated administrator and as large a group of members who enjoy a range of interests. This is not just a gun forum, it's a community. I mean, come on, isn't this worth at least $20 to you? [b]I[/b] think so. Unbelievable. I guess this further illustrates my point about people NOT READING POSTS in their entirety and reading myopicly with their predisposed bias. If I am not mistaken, EVERY POST I HAVE MADE ON THIS THREAD have stated that it is NOT about the money and that $20 is a good deal. My posts have gone past the irrelevant issue of money, and focused on SOLVING THE REAL ISSUE of bandwidth taxation and resource consumption. My suggestions were aimed at cutting down the expense of running this great site...and maybe saving people's money as a side benefit. Let's not forget...$20 from 100, 200, or even 500 people will not solve this issue for long if the root causes are not determined and dealt with. And telling me to go elsewhere won't solve the problem either--you can see by my post count and 2 years of registration that I love this site and don't want to see go under. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 1:23:37 PM EDT
[#23]
Quoted: I am not complaining, but just pointing something out. This is coming from a long-time non-paying member. I know...I guess I should just scrape up some cash and quietly send it in. Amen, brother. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 2:01:05 PM EDT
[#24]
I have an idea, why don't we just reconfigure the entire site to fit tailgates needs, then we will all continue to pay so he can have his free search function. I just got back from a FREE ar15 shoot here in AZ and got to play with full auto toys for almost nothing, what a deal, plus I got to meet many awesome members of this site. that is worth far more than the 60$ I paid to be a member.if you've never been to a shooting event with other members from this site,maybe you should, and then I doubt 20$ a year would even be an issue. its much more than just a website, if it was just a regular run of the mill gun oriented site, then you'd just quit bitching and go elsewhere. but I see since your still here you realize what a special place this is. and further, if you have so many great ideas to make a better site, then attempt to do that yourself, then you would really appreciate all the hard work the Avillas have poured into AR15.com. sometimes instead of trying to change everything around you, its easier to try to adapt and get with the program.
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Posted: 1/5/2003 2:06:36 PM EDT
[#25]
Quoted: I have an idea, why don't we just reconfigure the entire site to fit tailgates needs, then we will all continue to pay so he can have his free search function. I just got back from a FREE ar15 shoot here in AZ and got to play with full auto toys for almost nothing, what a deal, plus I got to meet many awesome members of this site. that is worth far more than the 60$ I paid to be a member.if you've never been to a shooting event with other members from this site,maybe you should, and then I doubt 20$ a year would even be an issue. its much more than just a website, if it was just a regular run of the mill gun oriented site, then you'd just quit bitching and go elsewhere. but I see since your still here you realize what a special place this is. and further, if you have so many great ideas to make a better site, then attempt to do that yourself, then you would really appreciate all the hard work the Avillas have poured into AR15.com. sometimes instead of trying to change everything around you, its easier to try to adapt and get with the program. I LOVE YOU MAN! Of course I'll probably get yelled at for supporting your post... seems I'm king asshole around here these days... oh well, when principle is at stake... be deaf to expediency! [>:/] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 2:23:14 PM EDT
[#26]
Guys lay off Tailgate, he's been sincere in his questions, ideas, and in trying to help. He's not trying to rip into this, he's trying to help solve it. [=)]
If you have doubts read through the threads... especially stuff on this page. [;)] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 2:58:07 PM EDT
[#27]
Reeeeear...Cat Fight....[FamousQuote] You Can't Please All Of The People All Of The Time.[/FamousQuote] Goatboy, I think you are doing one hell of a job with the meager resources that a few of the members are willing to contribute. [beer] [bounce]
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Posted: 1/5/2003 5:21:11 PM EDT
[#28]
Quoted: After the BRC fiasco I figured AR15.com would die in the next year or so (if that). Maybe I was being too generous. Um. Don't you mean that Castle Arms would die in the next year? [:(!] ARFCOM RULES! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Bunch 'o Cheap Bastages [;)] |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 5:29:59 PM EDT
[#29]
I'm just chiming in to say I hope GB is making a mint off this site. If he made a million a year (yeah right) I would still send in my 60 bucks. I paid my 60 bucks when the option first became available not for the features, but because I am here almost every day, learning things, meeting new people, bullshitting. Hell, I spend more time here than with my "real" friends. I didn't pay for any of the features because I don't really use them, I paid because this place is a second home for me and one I want to help stick around.
That said, I have no problem with people who don't want to pay. There are plenty of sites I go to that I don't and wouln't pay for, but that is because they don't have the value to me this place does. But I also don't complain about those sites. As for tailgater, I think he is being sincere in wanting to help the site, and I had the same question about the value of making people pay for search vs. always reposting topics. But I think GB answered it, plus everyone would post the same topics even when search was free anyhow. Thanks GB for making all this availible. |
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Posted: 1/5/2003 6:56:33 PM EDT
[#30]
My check is in the mail. The minimum amount of $20.00 is next to nothing when you consider all the entertainment you receive from this site. I would really miss the spell check and IM capabilities. I could care less about the search functions though.....
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Posted: 1/6/2003 12:42:24 AM EDT
[#31]
And now for something completely different...
[img]http://photos.ar15.com/ImageGallery/IG_LoadImage.asp?iImageUnq=3759[/img] Just thought I'd dredge up something ugly from the past. Yet another random post. |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 1:21:09 AM EDT
[#32]
Thank You, GoatBoy and Ed,
Home Of The AR15 Rifle. A few Ideas, 1, Limited TITLE Search Only, for Non-paying members. 2, Someone Donate a Site-Shared Log on ID, SEARCH1, 2, 3, etc. with password Search1, limit user to 10-15 minutes. 3, Ask for Site Donations, Post your P.O. Box Number and make check payable to AR15.com. They Don't have to be A Member to Help keep the Site up. Great Site, GoatBoy, In My Opinion, Search Feature will Help Create new Members. ^^^ [size=1]^ Million Gun Freedom March on Washington July 4th, 2003. [url]www.Cures-not-wars.org/[/url] Truth Will Liberate Earth. [url]www.RKBA.org/antis/hci-master[/url]Allege 1993 feinstein/hci master plan PRETEXT for TOTAL Gun Freedom Confiscation Dis-Armament. [url]http://www.DigitalAngel.net/[/url]Revelation 13:18 ID-GPS-MONEY BAN Human Power Implant Micro-chip Never Again, Never Forget -- Seek the Truth , Liberate Your Mind -- We Are At War[/size=1] FIXED BAYONETS VX |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 9:18:12 AM EDT
[#33]
I do not recall if I posted on this thread, this may be my second or third post here since I did not have time to read through it and i can not do a search w/o giving a few dollars. [b] every other site I frequent has a search feature [/b] There are MANY other things that could be cut out on this site other than search IMO. How many diffrent freaking forums do we need on a AR15 based site, next we'll have a PRETTY KITTYS forum too no doubt........ which new forums get little traffic?[?] I too hope this site is profitable for its founders. The members only forum seemed smart, alot of folks like to think of themselves as belonging, and I'm sure those funds were put to good use unless, it leads to more cuts in usual standard nononsense options........[b]READ MY SIG![/b]
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Posted: 1/6/2003 9:30:18 AM EDT
[#34]
Quoted: I do not recall if I posted on this thread, this may be my second or third post here since I did not have time to read through it and i can not do a search w/o giving a few dollars. [b] every other site I frequent has a search feature [/b] There are MANY other things that could be cut out on this site other than search IMO. How many diffrent freaking forums do we need on a AR15 based site, next we'll have a KITTYS forum too no doubt........[b]READ MY SIG![/b] Ignorance is bliss huh? OK, when it comes down to it, it is all about the money, huh? Let's look at it from your side then: Since we cleared up that it costs $X,XXX to run the site per month and [b]you are using the site, why haven't you ponied up?[/b] Principles? Nah..... Why? It's all about the money, that's why. Gee, was there a more worthless point to make? [b]Yes[/b], and here it is: "Its all about the money,why kid yourself?." [rolleyes] |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 10:13:31 AM EDT
[#35]
the current search feature was somewhat neutered anyway being limited to title, author, or reply author.
iirc, many moons ago the search feature actually use to search the thread text or text body. if i needed to find that torque spec or armalite scope mount now by someone i do not remember who authored, or the specific thread title (those vary bigtime), i'm SOL. if you're gonna charge for the search feature, make it a real one (not complaining) and then it would be worth it to complete a membership. |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 2:14:06 PM EDT
[#36]
Quoted: Quoted: I do not recall if I posted on this thread, this may be my second or third post here since I did not have time to read through it and i can not do a search w/o giving a few dollars. [b] every other site I frequent has a search feature [/b] There are MANY other things that could be cut out on this site other than search IMO. How many diffrent freaking forums do we need on a AR15 based site, next we'll have a KITTYS forum too no doubt........[b]READ MY SIG![/b] Ignorance is bliss huh? OK, when it comes down to it, it is all about the money, huh? Let's look at it from your side then: Since we cleared up that it costs $X,XXX to run the site per month and [b]you are using the site, why haven't you ponied up?[/b] Principles? Nah..... Why? It's all about the money, that's why. Gee, was there a more worthless point to make? [b]Yes[/b], and here it is: "Its all about the money,why kid yourself?." [rolleyes] |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 5:33:22 PM EDT
[#37]
This crap is getting boring fast.
I wrote a long response, but I'm not in the mood to deal with it. Re-read the post and email if you like. We need to cover expenses and we need to balance the BW and server loads as much as possible. If you can't understand, then just walk. I can't be any clearer than that. |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 6:58:48 PM EDT
[#38]
Quoted: This crap is getting boring fast. I wrote a long response, but I'm not in the mood to deal with it. Re-read the post and email if you like. We need to cover expenses and we need to balance the BW and server loads as much as possible. If you can't understand, then just walk. I can't be any clearer than that. No sir, it can't get any clearer! And GoatBoy is my newest bestest friend too! Thanks for all your hard work! |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 7:17:25 PM EDT
[#39]
Hey! Who paid for Tailgates membership? [:)] |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 7:37:36 PM EDT
[#40]
Since you or somebody else saw fit to censor yet another topic, I'll post my reply here:
Quoted: The changes were posted about a month ago publicly and about 2 weeks before that in the member forum. (For discussion, warning, etc) You should also read through this post and see my comments. I don't think you really care and simply are pissing and moaning... which brings up the question of why? I didn't see it, if I had I would certainly have pointed out how stupid such a decision would be. Did you make this decision? Can you explain to me why you removed "My Active Topics"? Just how is somebody supposed to check their posted topics now? You could do it with the Search function with minimal effort but now you can't do it at all. don't think you considered that when you did it. Of course I care, why would I spend time posting about it if I didn't? |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 7:48:05 PM EDT
[#41]
Quoted: Since you or somebody else saw fit to censor yet another topic, I'll post my reply here: Quoted: The changes were posted about a month ago publicly and about 2 weeks before that in the member forum. (For discussion, warning, etc) You should also read through this post and see my comments. I don't think you really care and simply are pissing and moaning... which brings up the question of why? [red]I didn't see it, if I had I would certainly have pointed out how stupid such a decision would be. Did you make this decision? Can you explain to me why you removed "My Active Topics"? [/red]Just how is somebody supposed to check their posted topics now? You could do it with the Search function with minimal effort but now you can't do it at all. don't think you considered that when you did it. Of course I care, why would I spend time posting about it if I didn't? Sir, perhaps I'm misinterpreting, as voice inflection and such is lost in the internet, but would you please show a little respect for our host? You have no right to [i]demand[/i] an explanation. He owes you nothing. He owes none of us anything. He does the multitude of things he does for our benefit, and asks nothing in return, except to not foot the whole bill himself. Is it really so hard to accept, or are you having trouble understanding it? If so, I would be happy to give a more complete explanation, via telephone, if you want to call me. I will provide my phone number if you ask via IM. I just hung up from talking to GoatBoy for an hour. I am currently well informed. Again, please be respectful. You honestly sound like a spoiled child. Perhaps I am taking your words wrong, but this is the impression you leave. [:(!] |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 7:56:59 PM EDT
[#42]
Quoted: Just how is somebody supposed to check their posted topics now? You could do it with the Search function with minimal effort but now you can't do it at all. You sure can! It's really easy, let me walk you through it. Step 1: Aquire a notepad. Step 2: Aquire a pen (or a pencil, if thats what suits you). Step 3: Use pen (or pencil) to write down particular thread (the one to which you replied) url on said notepad. Heres an example: http://www.ar15.com/forums/manageReply.html?action=quote&b=1&f=5&t=162966&r=1374809&page=4 (Make sure to write this down) Hey! Whaddaya know! That happens to be this thread!! Step 4: Type url address into address line on your favorite browser. Step 5: Click the 'Enter' key. There you have it!! Now wasn't that easy? -T. |
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Posted: 1/6/2003 8:09:01 PM EDT
[#43]
Quoted: Since you or somebody else saw fit to censor yet another topic, I'll post my reply here: As I had mentioned in the post, I'd like to keep it to this topic. I locked it because it continued another similar coversation and I was tired of jumping between for days. I didn't see it, if I had I would certainly have pointed out how stupid such a decision would be. Did you make this decision? Of course I made the decision... who else is there? I've also been very open as to why this had to happen again. I try to do what's best for the site for the short and long term. It may not be the most popular, but my role never has been. (See your above comment for an example.) Can you explain to me why you removed "My Active Topics"? Just how is somebody supposed to check their posted topics now? How many sites even have this function! This was something I created when I felt there needed to be an easier way to track your involvement in conversations. It's not essential for using the site, and it's an item that is highly used. You could do it with the Search function with minimal effort but now you can't do it at all. don't think you considered that when you did it. Of course I care, why would I spend time posting about it if I didn't? All the MyActiveTopics is, is a customized search. This is why it's overhead and the search's needed to be addressed. Neither one is essential for site use, they just make it easier to get what you need and want. I have a ton of work to get done and I am already analyzing a means to get a solution quicker. I expect some sort of search to be available, but it most likely wont be what you've been used to. (A more restricted version.) If you look through this post, I'm sure most of what I just typed, had already been said. The site has been REAL busy lately and with growth come growing pains. |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 12:20:37 AM EDT
[#44]
There are a number of forums I visit that now require registration to view certain things or to search. This is the only site I've paid to visit.
This site is still free. Only EXTRA features are charged for. If you want to use the more b/w and cpu intensive functions, you have to pay for it. If a thread is important to you...bookmark it. If you want to search and not pay for it, there's always google. That or shave your head and visit santa with "AR15.COM" in 2" letters on your bald head. NOTHING on the internet is free, someone pays for it. I pay to maintain a pair of low-bandwidth servers for myself on the net. I know how much that costs me a month, I can only imagine how much that this site would cost. In case people haven't noticed, there are more and more sites with "premium" content and memberships now than ever before. Anyone remember Adcritic.com? Go visit now. It's $80/year or something. A friend of mine ran a website that, two years ago, went from being free to charging $10/year. He lost a lot of subscribers. The reason that this is occuring internet-wide is quite simple. Someone has to pay for a site to be on the net. And since not all of us are the most benevolent millionaires out there, charging for memberships to maintain a site is merely one way to keep a site up and running. If you like this site, and want to see it continue, then you should find $20 to send it to help ensure its future. |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 2:56:35 AM EDT
[#45]
Rimfirecentral.com is a good site though has only about 1/5 as many features as this site. You have to be a member ($20.00 a year I think) to even post. I'm not sure what other charges may be. Ante up guys/gals. For the cost of two movie tix, a box of popcorn, and a drink, you may get 3 hours of enjoyment. That same $20.00 here will last a year!!!!!
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Posted: 1/7/2003 5:00:03 AM EDT
[#46]
I don't mind paying.
However, how many of us lurked here for weeks, before making a first post, learning and absorbing the info available via the Search Engine? The Search Function gives lurkers a taste of the WEALTH of knowledge that this site offers. Take it away, and we will be flooded with Newbies asking the simplest, most redundant questions. How about an AK vs. AR thread every two days? That's what No Free Search will bring. |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 5:32:12 AM EDT
[#47]
Quoted: Quoted: I would be the idiot that recommended the tiered membership and limiting the search function. The Administrator if this site would be the "idiot" who decided it needed to be done. I would kindly suggest you not bite the hand that feeds you... You pay nothing to play here, if you are going to play here than play by the site's rules and show a little respect to those who let you ride along for free. I'd gladly contribute to this site on its merits for $20 a year if the mods would cut down on the censorship (I'd even pay $50 per year). But saying I have to pay it just to have a search function? You can KMA. Things like spellcheck I can understand, they are totally non-essential and besides you can just compose them online in your favorite word processor. IMs, too; just too costly and unnecessary. But an essential service like Search? After the BRC fiasco I figured AR15.com would die in the next year or so (if that). Maybe I was being too generous. BTW Goatboy the "My topics" function doesn't seem to be working; none of the topics I've posted in today are showing up there. Is it just me? Kroagnon, you annoy me. For your information, one of the most successful, independent websites to come out of the post-dot com era is Fark.com. They have a massive membership list that pays $5 a month for a complete archive access. They make more money than you do. Maybe you should spend time using the free search function at "another gun website" (ahem... mentioning no names of course...). |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 5:50:50 AM EDT
[#48]
Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: I do not recall if I posted on this thread, this may be my second or third post here since I did not have time to read through it and i can not do a search w/o giving a few dollars. [b] every other site I frequent has a search feature [/b] There are MANY other things that could be cut out on this site other than search IMO. How many diffrent freaking forums do we need on a AR15 based site, next we'll have a KITTYS forum too no doubt........[b]READ MY SIG![/b] Ignorance is bliss huh? OK, when it comes down to it, it is all about the money, huh? Let's look at it from your side then: Since we cleared up that it costs $X,XXX to run the site per month and [b]you are using the site, why haven't you ponied up?[/b] Principles? Nah..... Why? It's all about the money, that's why. Gee, was there a more worthless point to make? [b]Yes[/b], and here it is: "Its all about the money,why kid yourself?." [rolleyes] See the point was so pointless, you missed it. I was basically agreeing with you that YES IT IS ALL ABOUT THE BOTTOM LINE. WHICH IS WHY HE NEEDS TO HAVE PAID MEMBERSHIPS. An expense born by one individual (Goatboy) is a hardship, an expense born by those of us "interested parties" is a membership(paying members of AR15.com). I guess you play golf for free? Or tennis? I bet you think you shoot at ranges for free too, huh? BzzzzzzT! Wrong. Your tax money funds those ranges you think you are using for free. That's not to mention the ones you pay by the hour to shoot at....[rolleyes] Here's your award: [img]http://photos.ar15.com/WS_Content/ImageGallery/IG_LoadImage.asp?iImageUnq=248[/img] Don't buy the three cases of beer you planned on buying today and use that money to fund your membership. [b]self-edit so as not to rile up the Goat. Sorry, he still gets the award though.[/b] |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 6:18:44 AM EDT
[#49]
Guys keep this topic clean or I am going to lock it and be done with it.
The last thing we need is to turn on each other over a discussion. |
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Posted: 1/7/2003 6:36:22 AM EDT
[#50]
Quoted: This crap is getting boring fast. I wrote a long response, but I'm not in the mood to deal with it. Re-read the post and email if you like. We need to cover expenses and we need to balance the BW and server loads as much as possible. If you can't understand, then just walk. I can't be any clearer than that. I couldn't agree more! |
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