I hate to say it Toaster but you did hardly any research when you joined. You were one of the people Auto is talking about who wanted it spoon fed. If, "We", had a quiz like you suggest, (not the first time this has come up as an idea), you wouldn't be here as you would have failed. I have noticed you seem to be fitting in better though. I hope I can quote you more in the future.
The rep system isn't broken either. It is there as a guide only as to the reputation of a member. It can give confidence to any observer, (should they go and actually read the comments which I would always recommend), about purchases, information, accuracy, conduct, and posts that may have prompted an individual to give rep either +ve or -ve, and that includes the funny stuff. That is explained. It is merely a barometer and should be used as such. Those that contribute in postivie ways get repped more often. Two members of equal post count and different rep may indicate their differing levels of competence, contribution. The same would be true for a simliar rep count and hugely differing post counts. After all, where else would someone go to give feedback on an individual?
The, "Welcome", section is also hugely important. This forum is a welcoming forum to those that show they are worthy. Barging into a party without at least introducing yourself to the host, and preferably also the regulars, is rude and in that situation could easily get you thrown out of that party. Politeness and courtesy cost nothing and those are the sorts of people that should be here. Unfortunately, the mix has been diluted of late. There is plenty of innovation from those that have an interest in it but I'm not sure I want to share it with half the new members here. All you'd get is, "Cool", as a reaction and little or know comprehension of what is actually being shown, or the effort taken in producing it. This is just one more reason out of the many recently why members have left. I think I too would find it difficult to reconcile the financial productivity of the site with banning large numbers of individuals but I do feel this is less the hobbyist site it once was.
Yes, LPF has changed, as we are all apt to do ourselves, and that changes perspective don't forget, but I don't think there has been much added to the site because of it. This change has been going on just about since the release of 445nm so I would find it hard to listen to a point of view commenting on said change from a member here after that point I'm afraid.
M
