Pointless Posts

[daamon]

Hi Baldrick / Mods,

Can I have clarification on something please?

Is a pointless post in a thread - one that doesn't address the query or problem, but just makes a remark that can range from benign to abusive - against the AUPs?

And, sometimes, most would agree that it's justified - but there could be ramifications.

Granted, some are in jest and then go on to help. But I'm talking about comments that add nothing to the thread and only serve to (possibly) shed the forums / site in a bad light.

If so, where is the line drawn?

Comments like "Noob alert" are at one end of the scale and are seemingly innocuous enough - but can still be taken as (some) forum members being elitist / insensitive / arrogant / unhelpful.

Then there are comments at the other end of the scale which don't hold back and just lay in.

Whenever I see it, it always annoys me. I believe if you've nothing constructive to say, don't say anything. It's a shame that a few can, possibly, alienate members (most likely new ones) and tarnish the site's image and reputation.

With fewer visitors, who would keep Baldrick in the lifestyle he's accustomed to? :P

Just curious... Thanks.

[Sabro]

Not an admin/mod but I agree with alot of what you are saying.

A few years backs, I joined this site in need of help with my VCD creations, and honestly received alot of GREAT help and suggestions.

As the years went on, and I moved in to other aspects (DVD mainly) I have seen a decline in the
information posted by seasoned vets, as well as new comers to this site.

Yes, we all get alittle upset with the Tuesday, I cant backup this, did you search first blah blah blah, but most seem to forget its not the same people asking these questions over and over...It's by different users some new, some not so new.

Recently, I saw a post from one of the more expirenced mods here asking for information related to the location of DVDShrink cache files. The results were positive, strong and accurate, however, should of anyone elsed asked the same question, you could bet on receiving the n00b, RTFM, etc comments.

I think if alot of people here took a reality check, attempted to remember where they came from and where they are now, lost some of the frosty attitude and got back to the basics of videoHELP.com that you'd see more positive results.

If the original thread post annoys you, skip it, don't answer, move on ... don't waste your time and mine by posting negative comments that distracts from the topic at hand.

Just my opinion, but kudos for voicing the concern, as I am sure alot want to, but don't wanna have to deal with the heat the flames will cause.

Sabro

[lordsmurf]

If the original thread post annoys you, skip it, don't answer, move on ... don't waste your time and mine by posting negative comments that distracts from the topic at hand.

This is it. Right there. Hit the nail on the head.

A term that was developed in the off-topic area of this forum calls this "post whoring". The word used online to describe these people is "trolls", and back in the usenet days "flamers".

While a "no, that sucks" comment may be appropriate at time, the problem is we have people that REPEATEDLY post "that sucks" in the thread, which adds nothing, and is only there to instigate argument. It would be one thing if they had some additional, worthwhile comments, not just regurgitating themselves from a couple posts ago.

We have also had a problem in the past few months, mostly from 2004 registrants, with people ONLY coming to the forum to post negative comments and to "stalk" members on the forum (either to disagree with them, or outright just argue with them).

Things like "noob alert" are also not any help. Although "do a search" or "read the guides" often is.

Mods and admins can only react to things when we see them, or they get posted in the "reports" thread. When you see these things, post them there and they'll be dealt with. For example, I only come to VH 2-3 times a day, maybe 5-10 minutes each time.

Alright, well my 5 min are up for now. :P

[daamon]

@ Sabro - Thanks for the input and feedback. If there's any flames let 'em bring it on. I'm big enough and ugly enough to more than handle people if they want to try to attack me.

I'll provide a couple of real posts that I've seen recently, and keep the posters anonymous.

It's this kinda thing that sparked my question:

Uh oh, the "best".... http://www.petebest.com/

The OP asked a "What's the best..." question.

Can I burn CDs using my floppy drive?

The OP asked "Can I use my CD writer to create DVDs?"

It's these snidey, smart one-liners that I'm referring to - and others that can be worse. They're not so much doing it to increase the post count (post whoring), as to be condescending and taking a cheap shot.

I agree, while "Do a search" and "Read the guides" are a little curt and could be worded more warmly, they are at least true and helpful - if brief.

I also agree that "That sucks" and the like - especially repeatedly posted - is just plain provocative.

So you're saying to report them and the mods will make a decision? The reason for my initial question was because, although I don't like to see it, I'd like to know what the mods will tolerate and didn't want to be thought to be turning the site into a playground fight of "He said this..."

In the end, I think it's wrong and is detrimental to the site. I'd like to know what the mods think so that my actions are within what's expected. If a decision is taken to let stuff like this go, I'll still not like it, but will accept the decision.

Cheers.

[jimmalenko]

Personally I don't really see an issue with it

I say if you see it, report it. The Mods will take the appropriate action as they see fit.

[daamon]

I suppose my question is, is it a reportable offence?

Do the mods want to know about such posts so they can either formally or informally "have a word" with the "offender"?

Obviously lordsmurf has effectivley answered that, but I wanted to quote the examples above to make sure we're talking about the same kind of posts.

[jimmalenko]

I suppose my question is, is it a reportable offence?

Do the mods want to know about such posts so they can either formally or informally "have a word" with the "offender"?

Obviously lordsmurf has effectivley answered that, but I wanted to quote the examples above to make sure we're talking about the same kind of posts.

I see the RTP thread as one where you can list any threads you think the mods should look at, irregardless of if it's blatantly breaking rules or it's just something that is "inappropriate". That includes threads where I think the Mods need to "have a quiet word" to certain people. The Mods can then make up their mind - I'm just bringing it to their attention, that's all.

The other thing is that this place is pretty laid-back and relaxed, and that people are "allowed" to be themselves by virtue of only a few (but very fundamental) rules here. I would be disappointed if we went to a strictly "video only, no horseplay or off-topic material/comments/thoughts allowed" forum. If anything, IMO the comments you quote only reflect on the people that posted them, and not the site as a whole.

[daamon]

I see the RTP thread as one where you can list any threads you think the mods should look at, irregardless of if it's blatantly breaking rules or it's just something that is "inappropriate". That includes threads where I think the Mods need to "have a quiet word" to certain people. The Mods can then make up their mind - I'm just bringing it to their attention, that's all.

I agree - I guess I'm just seeking clarification as to what "pointless posts" warrant being reported.

The other thing is that this place is pretty laid-back and relaxed, and that people are "allowed" to be themselves by virtue of only a few (but very fundamental) rules here. I would be disappointed if we went to a strictly "video only, no horseplay or off-topic material/comments/thoughts allowed" forum. If anything, IMO the comments you quote only reflect on the people that posted them, and not the site as a whole.

I agree - Though you have to realise that you and I have been here long enough to know that's the case. For first timers, or people who haven't been here long, they could well take it as a reflection of the site. Particularly as it's them who are more likely to ask the questions which will elicit these responses.

[jimmalenko]

I guess I'm just seeking clarification as to what "pointless posts" warrant being reported.

I'd say any that you take exception to. It's then on the Mod that checks the RTP thread to make their own mind up, with the Forum Rules firmly entrenched in their minds. If they decide it's OK, no biggie, right ?

...Though you have to realise that you and I have been here long enough to know that's the case. For first timers, or people who haven't been here long, they could well take it as a reflection of the site. Particularly as it's them who are more likely to ask the questions which will elicit these responses.

I think our opinions on this differ, mate

As far as I'm concerned, this is a forum and so it accepts all types of people - those that live to give and those who get a kick out of annoying people. No-one here is irreplaceable, and no-one here (bar the mods) are acting on behalf of the site. As you say, while we've been here long enough to know this, I don't see anything wrong with a bit of "sparring" and IMO we don't want to move to a strictly on-topic forum, as it's the natural personalities that make here fun.

As I said above, just use the RTP thread for anything you take exception to and let a mod decide - either that or PM them. I don't think there can be a blanket rule to cover what is reportable and what isn't, in terms of what is pointless and what isn't. It's all interpretation.

That's JMHO of course

[sholmes202]

For what it's worth, I would say that any question that someone asks that is based on an honest desire to learn something deserves respect. If the question seems simplistic to those more educated, it is perhaps good to remember that we were once all beginners. I am sort of the neighborhood tech department and I often get people at my door or on the phone with problems...these can range from the very silly...like a plug being out ...to a crashed system...but whatever the issue is, it is important to the person who asks about it...so I try to be as helpful as time permits and to remember that the other guy probably is educated in OTHER areas that I would find confusing.

I am new here but have been in forums and chats since the old Prodigy days and I find that a lot of people feel comfortable insulting people whom they don't have to look in the eye...I would feel very odd about saying something to someone online that I would be frightened or ashamed to say in person...just my two cents worth

Holmes

[Shocker Milwaukee]

Can I burn CDs using my floppy drive?

The OP asked "Can I use my CD writer to create DVDs?"

@daamon

You're not gonna stop until you get your pound of flesh, huh?
I promptly apologized... what more do you want? You act like all my posts are negative or unhelpful. Review them for their merits one by one, if you like. I think my efforts to contribute to this site will speak for themselves. As for the "OP" in the thread in which I was quoted, his answer was easily found here:
https://www.videohelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=157688

[sholmes202]

I was unaware that the comments above were directed at anyone in particular! I hope that my earlier post was taken as a generic statement...if not I am sorry because no one wants to feel like a dartboard...PLUS if you like Shakespeare how bad can you be? ...

Holmes

[daamon]

I think our opinions on this differ, mate

That's what makes intelligent discussion interesting.... The main thing is, in principal, I'd say we agree - it's just the detail on how we go about it that's slightly different.

I was unaware that the comments above were directed at anyone in particular! I hope that my earlier post was taken as a generic statement...

They weren't until I was mis-quoted and they were made to appear personal.

I certainly took your earlier post as generic and would like to say that I totally agree with everything you put, and would hope that everyone could adopt that kind of thinking. It's a shame that a few either don't or sometimes forget. Hence my request for clarification from the mods.

Can I burn CDs using my floppy drive?

If you're gonna quote me, please do it accurately - Don't dare change it to make it mis-representative, and as if I'm on a campaign against you. I'm not.

I purposefully put "anon", and in capitals, instead of your username because I didn't want to single anyone out...

Can I burn CDs using my floppy drive?

...particularly as you apologised. I was merely using real and recent examples to help put my question in context. My clearly stated intention was to seek clarification, not to point fingers.

Get over it, there's no need to resort to twisting the truth and then using that as a basis for a lame attempt at starting an argument.

@daamon

You're not gonna stop until you get your pound of flesh, huh?
I promptly apologized... what more do you want? You act like all my posts are negative or unhelpful. Review them for their merits one by one, if you like. I think my efforts to contribute to this site will speak for themselves. As for the "OP" in the thread in which I was quoted, his answer was easily found here:
https://www.videohelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=157688

I'm not after a "pound of flesh" from you or anyone. And, yes I did note that you apologised. If you put your fragile ego aside and read my posts in this thread you'd see that my interests are in having this site as a place people can visit without feeling intimidated or looked down upon - ranging from absolute beginners who asked (to the educated) really stupid questions, right through to seasoned experts.

It's that mix and, in general the respect between them, that makes this a great site, with "pointless posts" which condescend only serving to damage that. They also serve to massage the ego of the person making the pointless post at the expense of the person they've just tried to belittle.

I don't know where you get the belief that I think all of your posts are negative or unhelpful - is this based on me quoting you, anonymously remember, once as an example while seeking clarification on a query? Please... I'm sure that your intentions are well meaning - we have bad days, and sometimes we slip up. That's why you and the other quote were anonymous - benefit of the doubt - and used as examples and not just reported in the RTP thread. Step back, see the bigger picture and realise I'm not on your case.

I've made a few similar slip-ups myself, and it was only when the recipient of my snidey remark came back and pointed out that I wasn't helping, only belittling and explained how that made him feel that I realised my mistake and resolved not to do it again. Maybe, when you think about it, you too will come to see there's no need for it either.

[Shocker Milwaukee]

...there's no need to resort to twisting the truth and then using that as a basis for a lame attempt at starting an argument.

In no way did I "twist the truth." I just put my name beside my quote, because I'm not ashamed of it. I'm also not "starting an argument," just putting my name with my words & explaining why I did so. In the spirit of

intelligent discussion

, you wouldn't deny me that opportunity, would you?

I'm sure that your intentions are well meaning...

I don't believe that for a second, but it sounds nice.

Keep up the good work. Maybe one day you can become a mod & save this forum from the great scourge of sarcasm.

[jimmalenko]

<grabs deck-chair and popcorn>

[daamon]

I just put my name beside my quote, because I'm not ashamed of it. In the spirit of

intelligent discussion

, you wouldn't deny me that opportunity, would you?

Of course not - You made the quote and you then apologised. Nothing reprehensible there. It's more mature behaviour than I've seen from some others. In retrospect, I could've included that the "anonymous poster" apologised. Lesson learnt.

I'm sure that your intentions are well meaning...

I don't believe that for a second, but it sounds nice.

You're entitled to your beliefs... But know this - I aim to make enemies of no-one. Just doing my bit to try to support this site.

Keep up the good work. Maybe one day you can become a mod & save this forum from the great scourge of sarcasm.

Thanks for the support, and as soon as I come across any (worthy) sarcasm I'll be sure to don my red cape and underpants and leap to the rescue. I'm not after mod status, I prefer my current role of undercover plain-clothed agent mingling with the masses. But, now I've let that out I have to assassinate anyone who reads this...

<grabs deck-chair and popcorn>

Just don't miss the footy match that's on this afternoon...

[Shocker Milwaukee]

I aim to make enemies of no-one. Just doing my bit to try to support this site.

Ditto. Having said that, when my words are used, I tend to take it personally (who wouldn't). You believe my post was "pointless," and I believe that it was illustrative. The line between 'poking fun' & 'hurting feelings/intimidating' is a blurry one. Point taken.

*extends the proverbial olive branch*

Consider the hatchet buried.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ \\\\\

Now.... what the hell is 'footy match?' Please don't tell me it's soccer....

[daamon]

*extends the proverbial olive branch*

Consider the hatchet buried.

Olive branch taken. Watch hatchet? All I see is a mound of freshly dug earth...

Intelligent discussion between reasonable people - a pleasure exchanging views with you. I'd say we've both gained from it.

Now.... what the hell is 'footy match?' Please don't tell me it's soccer....

If you're English (as I am) - it's what our cousins over the big pond have renamed "soccer", because they have their own "football". Even though it's a game primarily using the hands, the players wear kevlar armour and make-up, and it's a girlie version of rugby (union or league).

If you're an Aussie - it's kinda like a cross between rugby and hurling (the Irish sport which in itself is like a cross between hockey and rugby), but without the sticks. In short, it's f*cking tough, very fast and they play for 2 hours (4 x 30 minute quarters). Respect. Cracking game which I'm getting into.

[makntraks]

<grabs deck-chair and popcorn>

Right behind ya'..... <pacing to throw down>

makntraks

[jimmalenko]

this is football, aussie style

[offline]

Thanks for the show guys. As jimmalenko has finished
throwing popcorn I'd like to say something.

daamon; you are right it is a problem.

A good rule of thumb is this: If you feel someones post is overly
negative, disruptive, destructive or without merit to the topic in
hand then please report them. Also report any actions which
by their frequency, causes the above - even if the single post
in question seems innocuous (ie. Spam, multiple posts, pointless
posts, deliberate misreading of OP's question etc.)

In other words, if you are not happy, use the report function.
This helps us and we really do appreciate it. You can PM us
if you feel like it too.

[jimmalenko]

Thanks for the show guys. As jimmalenko has finished
throwing popcorn I'd like to say something.

I ran out .......... must .......... reload ..........

[offline]

I ran out .......... must .......... reload .......... laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif

As mods here I must warn you we have
superior fire power - choc tops + M&M's.
Do you feel lucky... punk?

[jimmalenko]

As mods here I must warn you we have
superior fire power - choc tops + M&M's.
Do you feel lucky... punk?

ROTFLMAO !

[lordsmurf]

If you're English (as I am) - it's what our cousins over the big pond have renamed "soccer", because they have their own "football". Even though it's a game primarily using the hands, the players wear kevlar armour and make-up, and it's a girlie version of rugby (union or league). If you're an Aussie - it's kinda like a cross between rugby and hurling (the Irish sport which in itself is like a cross between hockey and rugby), but without the sticks. In short, it's f*cking tough, very fast and they play for 2 hours (4 x 30 minute quarters). Respect. Cracking game which I'm getting into.

I've always been turned off by a sport where men run around in shorts that are TOO SHORT for most males and where they wear sissy-looking knee socks (almost like panty hose). One of those games where I'd prefer to NOT see it on tv (thus no close-ups) and would rather watch it from afar, in the stands. It does look fast, not any tougher though than most sports, not really. Hockey is pretty rough too. Not that I care for hockey either. Probably worth watching every now and then. Not sure I'd want to play it. With shorts that short, how do you protect the turkey and giblets?

[jimmalenko]

LS, you talking about soccer, or aussie rules ?

[offline]

Very generous comments LordSmurf, considering you
were not born into the Aussie Rules 'culture'.

As for toughness, there was a documentary on the
very subject. I believe hockey, U.K. football, US football,
Rugby and Ballet dancing were tested. Representatives
from each "sport" had to train and then compete in
each others game against a professional team.

The toughest? Well they turned out to be the
Ballet Dancers.

They were stronger, faster, fitter, tougher and
displayed superior motor skills. They also won
most games and all but humiliated the Rugby
and UK football side they "fought” against.

Just goes to show I guess...

Don't call a Ballet dancer a Nancy boy

[Cole]

I've always been turned off by a sport where men run around in shorts that are TOO SHORT for most males and where they wear sissy-looking knee socks (almost like panty hose).

Many of the Football (soccer) shorts are near knee length (in the UK anyway) now, and knee length socks do house shin pads.

There was a time when many footballers used to play with their socks dopped to their ankles, but the FA told them to tidy up their appearance, so up all the socks went.

Of course there were the infamous Argentina short shorts from the 70s

http://www.worldcup.isn.pl/pictures/winners/argentina_1978.jpg

[thecoalman]

The old American football Vs. Rugby (and other similar forms) argument. Respectively neither teams could compete in each other sports simply because they wouldn't have the personnel. I often here the kevlar argument but let's examine some pics..... :P

Our first piece of evidence to be entered is this pic, this man is 6 ft. 5in. and weighs 270+, pretty big huh? That would be the smaller guy in the red jersey , the larger gentleman to his right 6 ft. 7in. and well over 350lbs.



Onto pic 2, Similar comparison, the guy in the green jersey is 6 foot seven and 340+. By comparison I would suggest this guys arm is as some of your rugby players legs and probably nearly as long. :P Don't let the large sizes fool you, they are extremely fast and agile otherwise they wouldn't be playing in the NFL.




These are NFL lineman, average body size is 6 foot 4 inches 300+ and there's four of them on both sides during most plays. Now you want to go running into that with all 225 lbbs of your average running back without body armor go right ahead. I'll keep the ambulance waiting. BTW one of the reasons they wear padding is because at the turn of the century there was many deaths playing American football, not broken legs or arms but dead.

[gadgetguy]

Funny how a question about pointless posts turns into a discussion about sports...coincidence? I don't think so.