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Post by philciborowski on Jul 2, 2009 15:13:45 GMT -5
Ive been thinking and i know that for me, i think it would also help to get a topic reply note in your email... i sometimes forget to look in because other boards have reply notes, and this one doesnt....so i think that noone replies to my threads or posts..
not a major deal but it would be a plus to me
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Post by astro1973 on Jul 2, 2009 20:15:13 GMT -5
I check in almost everyday. My building has gotten really slow because of my work and having to put almost all my money into my Ford Exploder. I would love to have the time to build some more, but at this time that isn't going to happen. I try not to "post, just to post something" but sometimes that's all I can do. As far as posting on other sites, I post the same thing on all the forum sites I'm on. Well that's enough from me.
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scottwp72
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 101
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Post by scottwp72 on Jul 2, 2009 20:22:14 GMT -5
What's goin' on...
For several years I belonged to one truck model forum. Until a few years ago I started looking and joining other forums. Something I've noticed is the same people are posting the same work/projects on several sites. It gets to the point why look elsewhere at other forums to see the same builds and read the same commemts from the same people. It's not neccessarily a bad thing ... It's just that in general. I'm not trying to sound like a hypocrite I've posted the same project and made a few comments on mutiple sites as well.
As far as why some participate more on other forums possibly they've found their nitch there and tend to follow up on that forum more so than this or any other for that matter.
You can try to break this down and analyze why the participation here has tapered off. I'm a moderator for another truck model club w/ over 800+ members and less than what seems like 20 people post on a regular basis. Sometimes the regulars there will get off topic from time to time and it might seem more like a general chat room and that can discourage others from checking in. Like the comment was made if you moderate the site heavy handed that'll tire people out real quick too. I learned that first hand from being a moderator. Alot of the time these forums are like revolving doors.
I know of a couple members who have passed away and still show as members on the forum I moderate. Can I delete those memberships from the roster yeah but this might seem hokey or stupid I just let those memberships exist so those guys aren't forgotten. Maybe this is the case w/ a few of your non perticipating members?
Does this time of the year slow down this hobby definitly. Is the recession hendering ths hobby maybe? maybe not?
Like I said it is what it is.
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Post by Bri on Jul 2, 2009 21:20:44 GMT -5
There are a couple points brought up that I want to delve into a bit further. First of all, if you look at the way this forum is moderated, there really isn't a whole lot of moderating going on. The only time we step in is when topics get too heated, insults start flying or other derogatory behavior begins taking place. We all need to remember that the main purpose of this forum and the hobby in general is to have fun. As for "handing out" positive comments, I would much rather see that then see some of the posts that have been made regarding someone's work. I have seen some very rude and uncalled for comments on this forum and that is simply unaccpetable behavior, plain and simple. There is a right way and a wrong way of critiquing someone's efforts here. By taking a "holier than thou" attitude, you come across as arrogant, pompous, and a "know-it-all". While that may not be your intentions, it has still happened in the past here and I don't see it happening on the other forums. Now, with that being said, how would you suggest the moderators handle situations like this? Should we just let people rant and rave to their heart's content with total disregard for the people they might be offending? I am quite sure if we took that stance here we would be seeing alot more people heading for greener pastures. I have also said it before, but I'll say it again. If anyone here thinks they can do a better job at maintaining some sense of order here, please feel free to speak up. But, to be quite honest, I haven't seen enough members here that spend enough time participating here on a regular basis to even be considered for such a position. For the record, the only time threads are locked or removed is when the content becomes offensive or tempers start flaring. Obscenities, insults, rants and other inappropriate behavior should not have to be endured by any member here.
As for seeing the same topics and models being posted on the same forums all the time, this may be true to a certain extent. However, that is not totally the case. I have seen many topics posted on forums not even dedicated to big rigs that aren't posted here. Of course people have a choice on where to post their work and other subjects, but it gets very frustrating to see awesome how-to's, WIP's, and completed projects posted on sites not even dedicated to trucks or commercial modeling.
I also agree that we can get caught up in belonging to too many forums. I cut way back myself simply due to a lack of time and not even being able to keep track of what was goinjg on in any given community. I now only frequent 4 forums and that's more than enough for me. I amy even cut back some more. I have turned the reigns of a couple forums over to other members so I can concentrate on more important issues.
As for the economy, I saw firsthand how the economy is affecting our hobby. I went to our LHS tonight and found he had slashed the prices on all of his models and supplies to try and move his inventory. It's a definite bonus in one way, but another side to this is the fact that once this current supply is gone, he will not be replenishing it simply because he's taking a loss on what he is selling. It's a no-win situation if you ask me when it comes to the economy and the effect it has on our hobby.
Alot of valid points have been brought up and I'm glad we're seeing a "town hall" type discussion. Let's hear more of everyone's feelings, ideas and thoughts!
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midnight1
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 3
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Post by midnight1 on Jul 2, 2009 22:33:33 GMT -5
hi, i am midnight1, and also one of the newer members. though new to this club i have been driving and building replica's of tractor-trailers for a while. one thing is for sure...club's like this are few and far between. i belong to hunting clubs, softball team etc. but when it comes to one of my most favorite hobbies, most websites primarly cater to auto and military enthusiast's. when i first came across this site, i could tell by the trucker slang and department caption names it contains pure diesel fuel! i work long hours and don't always get to do things i love but i will put in as much time as i can in this club. thanks from ohio
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jbain87
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 25
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Post by jbain87 on Jul 3, 2009 7:36:26 GMT -5
After re-reading your last reply, I really cant see why you even bothered to post this question in the first place, as you have killed your own argument about it being a free forum. Whatever that does not suit you, means it does not suit everybody else, hmm, this does not sound like a free forum at all, think you are missing the point completely.
Seems like it's got to be your way, or it's the highway, is this so ?
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okdoky
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Keep your knives sharp and your glue lids on
Posts: 365
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Post by okdoky on Jul 3, 2009 7:43:38 GMT -5
Hi Brian
I am glad you raised the issue of ettiquet on the site. I am not revisiting one site I used to post on purely for that very reason.
I consider myself to be competant in some aspects of the hobby and crap at other aspects. I certainly ain't no expert. With the vast content and varied capabilities of all that post on the sites I would expect there is something for every level of modeller to find to their taste and to compare with their own standards.
I certainly don't condone the rivit counter approach of critisism in its most agressive form as this only puts peoples backs up and scares the less experienced folk off instead of building up their own experience levels. Political correctness can be too overpowering, but in this current credit crunch life we all need our hobbies to fall back on to help keep us sane.
This site is well laid out for truckie fans and has many aspects that make it more appealing than some others. It allows models to be placed into their type and size of vehicle. I even like the fact you have reference sections and a chat section.
I think if people accept that this web site offers all levels of modeller an opportunity to show their work, talk about it and seek advice or further reference on the build or the hobby FREELY and without the need to feel inadequate compared to more expert modellers, then I think this site is perfect.
After all , the hobby has to stay fun!!!
Nige
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rottin1
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 313
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Post by rottin1 on Jul 3, 2009 8:29:40 GMT -5
Good comment Midnight1. I belong to just 2 websites. This one and CTEBMC. I find this one a little more laid back. They other is a little too political for me. Just my opinion. I do try to check in each day to see whats happening and whats new. When I do build, I try to post on both as well. Thats all I really have time for. I have'nt built or posted anything lately because of the move into our new house. Its going to be another month easy, before I get too build again. I just think between the economy, summer, and not enough time in a day anymore, your going to find less participation. Also I think people do get burned out from building all the time. I know I do. Sometimes I think people just take a break from building. I myself , dont think there's anything wrong on the site. I'm not quite sure what you could do to entice more production out of people. The monthly projects are ok, but not everyone has a kit or the kit to build for that particular project so I think they wont participate. Maybe some builders cant finish the project in the alotted time frame. Maybe a bi monthly contest with a prize or so. You'd have to take care though in how you picked participants or there qualifications ie: Kurt in contest vs Travis is just not fair. Hope theres no offense taken to that comparison but it makes a good one. The beginners on this site definitley need constuctive critisism from the more seasoned builders but in a kind way. I agree theres alot of "sugarcoating" of comments on the work. But on the same token I remember when i was a kid and built my first truck, it was in no way perfect at ALL!! Nore is my work now perfect. I'd like to see more tutorails on how to do stuff. Alot of the younger builders would benefit from it. In fact probably alot of builders would including myself. But again that takes time. I really dont know what else to say. I've read alot of good points previous to this reply. Happy 4th to all Johnny B
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Post by Bri on Jul 3, 2009 10:57:04 GMT -5
After re-reading your last reply, I really cant see why you even bothered to post this question in the first place, as you have killed your own argument about it being a free forum. Whatever that does not suit you, means it does not suit everybody else, hmm, this does not sound like a free forum at all, think you are missing the point completely. Seems like it's got to be your way, or it's the highway, is this so ? We have a group of moderators here on the forums for starters. I do not take any action, either pisitive or negative without first consulting the moderating team. If there isn't a unanimous decision amongst the whole team, then whatever propsed action does not take place. This can range from locking threads to deleting volatile topics to banning or removing members. No one person has free run of this forum and it has never worked that way. Mark, Todd, and myself work very hard to ensure things run smoothly here and we all work together. So, with that being said, every new member here makes a conscious decision to abide by the rules of this forum. Each forum has them, some having more than others. For example, there are forums who require a minimum monthly post count in order to remain active. Other forums prohibit the mentioning or promotion of other online communities and so forth. We try to keep these forums as laid back as possible and relaxing for everyone. Occasionally tempers flare and topics get heated or it seems people just like to join here for the sake of bucking the rules or seeing just what they can get away with. Granted, those times are few and far between, yet it does happen. Now, I respect your comment made, but let me ask you a simple question. What would YOU do differently to improve these forums? If you see where we are doing something wrong, then please feel free to make us aware. That's the purpose of this thread. We don't want to run this forum like the Gestapo and we sure don't want to run members off because of the way things operate here. However, when we have issues that arise, we have to take into consideration the consensus of the whole body of members and not just a select few. It would be foolhardy to make decisions based on the voice of the minority and neglect the popular vote, don't you think? We make every effort to work on the true "democratic process" where everyone has a voice and is entitled to use it. All we ask is that those who choose to make their voices heard do so in a respectful manner so as not to offend others. Unfortunately, there have been some threads recently that turned south so quickly, immediate action had to be taken to avert an all out flame war. In instances like this, each moderator has the authority to lock a thread down or even remove it if the content is such that is considered extremely offensive, ie. profanity, racial slurs, etc. I know the moderators have discussed in the past bringing another person or two on baord to assist us. I am also all for that. the downside to that is, we have brought people on board as moderators here who lost interest after a short period of time. Mark and Todd have been on the staff for a long time, with Mark being on staff since the forum's inception. If anyone wants to assist us and can make a LONG TERM commitment, then please contacdt me through e-mail or PM. I will be more than happy to discuss the position and responsibilities with you more in depth.
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Post by kodiakmodeler on Jul 3, 2009 16:57:46 GMT -5
I guess that I should jump in here. I have to admit that I have a tendency to only come here sporadically. The reason for this, is that one can go for several days with only a few posts to view. This is the "Truck Stop". It should be the busyest truck model forum on the net. When I don't see anything posted, I pass on to another forum.
The shame lies in people like me. I joined June, 2008. I checked my post count before adding this one and I had 147. That's only a little over 11 posts a month, which isn't good for "the" model trucker's site.
Why don't I post more? I would guess that the biggest reason, is that I don't have the modeling skills that the rest of you do. I come here to gain knowledge. I generally feel that my work isn't good enough or interesting enough to show. What I find interesting is that others have come to forums and said the same thing, and I've called that "hogwash" and to stop being selfish with their models and show them. Once again I find myself chastising myself. I should practice what I preach. If those of us who are still learning don't share what we've learned, then those who teach will find themselves feeling unappreciated, post count will fall, and forums will die.
There are those who are concerned about the people who come on and give the "nice job" or "that's cool" comments when viewing somebody's work of art, but at least they're saying something. They at least give acknowledgement to the piece. I've seen entries where there were one or two replies out of well over a hundred views. I can't help but think that the poster had to come away somewhat depressed. Once again I find myself lacking, as I'm one of the most guilty of viewing, enjoying, and going on without leaving a comment. Those comments are a way of saying, "thanks for going to the work of sharing this with us".
To the administrators, I offer my apology, but you're the ones who sent me the email that said, "post something". You just neglected to say what. LOL This is what you get for allowing an old school teacher on your forum; I'll come on and start teaching. Seriously, I do thank you for the offering this forum, and all of the work that you do to keep it going. It is I who've chosen to not show my appreciation by posting more often. I extend this apology to all of those who've shown their great skills in modeling, and hours of work, and I didn't have the courtesy to leave a comment when I viewed them. These are things that I'll be more aware of in the future, and will work to rectify.
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Post by Bri on Jul 3, 2009 18:14:18 GMT -5
I think at one point in time or another we all have been a bit disappointed when we've posted a completed project and had few to no comments left for us. One thing I had to come to terms with was the fact that if you're in this hobby to impress your fellow modelers or to garner public acceptance for your work, you're setting yourself up for a massive letdown. I have seen awesome projects posted by people who weren't a "big name" in the hobby, or who isn't featured on a monthly basis in some modeling publication, yet the attention paid to their work was almost nill. I personally have left forums in the past simply due to the fact that if you weren't in the "inner circle" of modelers, your input was often shunned or ignored completely. I don't want anyone here to feel as though their input here is not appreciated or wanted. I also want EVERYONE here to know if they feel as though that has happened to them, they can come to me privately and we can discuss the situation. Nobody's input, showing of their work, or other participation here should go unnoticed or unappreciated. In my opinion, that is the worst thing someone can experience in this hobby.
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Post by dieseldoc on Jul 3, 2009 19:58:32 GMT -5
Why don't I post more? I would guess that the biggest reason, is that I don't have the modeling skills that the rest of you do. I come here to gain knowledge. I generally feel that my work isn't good enough or interesting enough to show. What I find interesting is that others have come to forums and said the same thing, and I've called that "hogwash" and to stop being selfish with their models and show them. Once again I find myself chastising myself. I should practice what I preach. If those of us who are still learning don't share what we've learned, then those who teach will find themselves feeling unappreciated, post count will fall, and forums will die. First let me say this..... When it comes to the builder of the model himself he/she is there own worst enemy when it comes to evaluating there own work. In other words you cannot fairly judge your own work. You the builder know where even the most slightest flaw will be. This is the main reason I have so many unfinished builds. So to be fair to your self you should post it regardless of what you think of your build and let your peers be the judge of it. Every model has its flaw, mistakes or what ever you want to call them including mine. It's just a matter of finding them. There is no perfect model on any shelf.
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Post by dieseldoc on Jul 3, 2009 20:28:20 GMT -5
My 2 cents worth on commenting on builds....... First off when your viewing a build for the first time you will see it as better or worse than what you can do yourself. This is how our brain seems to work. One actually has to take a closer look to see if it is a nice clean build. ie; glue smears, misaligned parts, surface blemishes, inaccuracies and so on. Granted this is more difficult because we are looking at pictures on a monitor but one cannot make an accurate comment on a build until this is done. Now regarding negitive comments. The whole world is competitive in one way or another and at the same time we are supposed to be politically correct in everything we say. This is a big problem with not just this forum and other forums out there, it is that way with the world as well. With out compitition and critisism we will never get better at what we do. But at the same time you just can't say some thing is a piece of crap and leave it at that (this where knowing skill level would help). One needs to say why they see it that way and then offer up a way for the other person to make it better the next time. This is how we learn. So I say bring on the negitive comments as well as the positive it will only make each one of us a better builder and we will learn from one anothers mistakes.
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bonze
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 243
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Post by bonze on Jul 3, 2009 21:20:22 GMT -5
Brian, The Truck stop is one of the BEST truck forums period!! You and the other guys do a great job (no sugar coat) I for one appreciate all you do.
With that said,I try and go on as often as I can. Sometimes you see a bunch of new postings and at times things seem to slow down for whatever reason. Lately it seems allot of older post are being viewed with response by the new guys (this is good).
As for posting pics I don't know about anyone else but every time I try and do anything with photo bucket my laptop gets locked up!!??! As a matter of fact I logged on so I can try to post new pics.
I hear what you said about how many people reply to post's However for me, I look to see how many looked at my work!! Its always good to get an Adda boy but the view number is always higher so at least I know my time and effort was well worth it. Some times action speaks louder than words!!!
Brian I would not change a thing, You keep it clean for the young-ins and simple for folks like me THANK YOU!!!
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maintech1
Local Delivery Truck Driver
Posts: 26
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Post by maintech1 on Jul 3, 2009 22:41:36 GMT -5
Basically, I don't have an excuse. I could say I have too much on my plate but I'm the one that filled the plate. I joined way to many groups, all on Yahoo, and then wondered why I had 250 + emails every day. Miss a couple of days and I'm in trouble. So I dropped a good portion of the groups and will probably drop some more of them. I don't post pics because I don't own a digital camera, yet, but as soon as I can I'll put them on here. I have some builds that date back to the 70's and a few things in various holding patterns that I need to get back to. Most of what I have done is pretty much box stock but my plans for the future projects aren't so as I get into those I'll be looking for the advice of the more experienced builders in here. I don't think there is anything wrong with the forum. I know a lot of us get busy and figure we don't have time right now so we'll log in later which becomes a lot later and then not at all until something reminds us that we haven't been here in awhile. I like the fact that it's clean, friendly and informative without all the arguments, name calling, etc. that have driven me out of other groups. Thanks for the 'Wake Up Call', Brian and I'll do my best to be more involved. Bob
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