Reform maybe, but don't throw out the baby with the bathwater.
When the system of rep points was first introduced it was an anonymous system, we could see the rep points and comments but not who posted them. Whilst I had no objection to receiving anonymous greenies I objected to anonymous criticism. Hence I made a stance and fortunately the Lord most high :D and his Chief executioner:D made the necessary changes to the system.
This system has, I believe, worked well. It has provided a method of recognition of the posts made and provide valuable feedback on your posts.
Of course the top posters will feature in the top rep point lists for points can only be given on posts made. I am fortunately to be amongst amongst that group. Not so much because of the green dots or the point value, but because of the appreciation and feedback the points, and comments with them, have given me.
Also the points do not assure a newbie that the posts are good advice. All they do is indicate that previous posts have been well received and appreciated by members, so it is a good indication. But, if someone posts bad advice I'm sure others will correct it very quickly, with a flood of reddies to follow, even so never completely rely on the reply to a question but use it as your basis for further reseach.
Being an ex bean counter:D I keep a rough check on the ratio of woodworking points against total points received and they are in my case about 70 % for woodworking advice. I know others get a good reputation and have never posted a woodworking post yet, so maybe the system needs some reforming by maybe making it impossible to give rep points for the jokes section, which so often is no longer funny anyway.
However in making reforms we should not throw out the baby with the bathwater:D , and I hope that generally the system remains for it is great to give, and receive, a quick acknowledgement or encouragement on a post made.
Finally I agree with WB about the members he has met through the board, it has become a much more personal and friendly board since I joined and it has been great to meet the various people. Haven't met as many as WB, but later this year I may travel to Queensland, and if I do I look forward to meeting more of them. Those who don't involve themselves in the social opportunities, like Canberra:mad: , are missing out on another great and developing side of these forums.
Peter.
(My second serious post of today - only because I am recovering from a serious dose of the flue.)
