IMPORTANT: Change to Rent/Trade Boards Rules

[Sandisw]

So if you already restrict Reservations for Rent to only two threads per year and only within 30 days of the reservation, what's the problem you are trying to solve?

They are trying to keep the rent/trade board as a "perk" (for lack of a better word) for those members who are active in the DIS community. It gives DIS members, who regularly participate in the online discussions an opportunity to rent out reservations using their point.

The limit mentioned above is referring to advertising an actual reservation that is made already, which is not the same as offering up your points to be used to make a reservation at the request of a renter. For example, someone saying I have a reservation booked at XYZ from January X to January Y for ZZZ points.

From what I have read through this thread, there were people who basically have used the DIS as a free site to rent their points with no intention of actually being part of the DIS community in any other way.

Now, if you want to use that board to advertise your points, you must also commit to becoming a contributing DIS member to other discussions.

 

[Lumiere1313]

OK

It's becoming clearer to me. The Rent/trade Board is not against ACTIVE members who rent their reservation, up to two per year, but has taken a stance against non-active members, AKA "lurkers" (I hate that word!). These people (Lurkers!) will not be allowed to participate in the Rent/trade board related to Reservations for Rent.

Research indicates that "lurkers" (I hate that word!) account for 90% of your viewership, with 9% as occasional contributors and 1% account for most contributions to your community. So your rule change, which I suspect the "abusers" will find a way around, affects the silent 90% that no one hears from but participate in your community in a non-active way. They are audience members in a conference who don't speak but listen and learn. They are town hall members who allow a few to lead as long as the overall goal is accomplished. They have to be distinguished from people who have NEVER visited your community.

Is this the right way to encourage active participation? By taking something away! I believe that most of you active members think that the 50 post bar is easily accomplished. You're wrong. People are silent because they are comfortable that way. We are not as gregarious, experienced, knowing and confident as members who have thousands or tens of thousands of posts. But we participate by logging on, reading your opinions, gaining knowledge and in some instances, when the time is right, becoming active members. The feeder pool to the 10% who participate is from the 90% who don't.

I don't know how you reduce the "lurker" percentage. To expand your active membership, we should be able to come up with something that encourages non-threatening participation (people feel threatened in many different ways) that is easy. It's worth talking about!

Mike

 

[Sandisw]

OK

It's becoming clearer to me. The Rent/trade Board is not against ACTIVE members who rent their reservation, up to two per year, but has taken a stance against non-active members, AKA "lurkers" (I hate that word!). These people (Lurkers!) will not be allowed to participate in the Rent/trade board related to Reservations for Rent.

Research indicates that "lurkers" (I hate that word!) account for 90% of your viewership, with 9% as occasional contributors and 1% account for most contributions to your community. So your rule change, which I suspect the "abusers" will find a way around, affects the silent 90% that no one hears from but participate in your community in a non-active way. They are audience members in a conference who don't speak but listen and learn. They are town hall members who allow a few to lead as long as the overall goal is accomplished. They have to be distinguished from people who have NEVER visited your community.

Is this the right way to encourage active participation? By taking something away! I believe that most of you active members think that the 50 post bar is easily accomplished. You're wrong. People are silent because they are comfortable that way. We are not as gregarious, experienced, knowing and confident as members who have thousands or tens of thousands of posts. But we participate by logging on, reading your opinions, gaining knowledge and in some instances, when the time is right, becoming active members. The feeder pool to the 10% who participate is from the 90% who don't.

I don't know how you reduce the "lurker" percentage. To expand your active membership, we should be able to come up with something that encourages non-threatening participation (people feel threatened in many different ways) that is easy. It's worth talking about!

Mike

I understand where you are coming from in terms of comfort and everyone has to make the decisions for themselves. But it does come down to the fact that how someone chooses to participate and to what level is really up to that person.

I don't see the rules as a punishment, but rather a reward for those that spend the time and are willing to share their ideas, opinions, and perspectives to help other people learn and understand DVC.

.

 

[Cmbar]

HI All,

Trying to understand the new rule....

OK if I want to rent points I have to participate in Non Rent-trade discussions. Does that mean DVC boards or all Disboards? How often?

Do the people renting have to be a regular as well? So confused!

I have more than 2500 posts over 10 years and love the DIS boards, however I am only participating when I have a trip planned. Is that not the norm? If I don't have a trip planned I generally am not on the boards that much (OK,my DH says that while that is true, I almost always have some Disney trip planned )

But my concern might be that I haven't participated in the recent months yet want/need to rent my points. If I can't I kinda feel jipped. I have spent countless hours helping people on the Disboards as well as receiving amazing advice. Other than being a moderator, how many DVC members are on the boards with frequency of once a day, once a week, once a month? and such?

Not trying to be difficult, just want to understand. I certainly would want to rent to someone who has references but how does someone get references if no one lets them rent out their points the first time? Did we really have that many members that have been "taken" on the Disboards? If so it makes me so sad!

Also, no offense to the DVC boards, but I own DVC I know about as much as I can know about it so I don't frequent it as much. While I love helping new people out, I often feel that the "regulars" such as Deb&Bill, Dean, dianeSchlit as well as the moderators answer all the questions and quite frankly their answers usally dwarf the occassional owner posts with their knowledge. So I really only frequent the planning boards such as the cruise or WDW trip planning. Am I not being a good member of the community and not entitled to the "perks" of DVC renting?
Thanks!

 

[aggiemullins]

I originally found this board because i was looking to rent out my points one year. After renting my points, I've continued to frequent the boards. While I enjoy reading these boards, I'm part of the 9% that rarely contribute because honestly I'm not quick enough and because I can't for the life of me know why someone would care about MY opinion! . Now if you check my posts you would never think I'm here much other then to rent or rent out points, but I promise I am!

But I do know what the Moderators are saying and if we're having a problem with not enough people contributing, I'll try to do my part, but frankly I'm having trouble finding threads that need any further answers!

While I don't plan on renting out any points in the near future, I'm trying to be a good DISer and put my 2 cents in when I can so I can keep the privilege of renting if I ever need to in the future, but I have to say it's kind of taking the fun out of my occasional lurking because I feel like I'm being forced to speak. Sort of like when your 6th grade teacher used to call you out in front of the class when they thought you weren't paying attention!

I do have a question though? (and i hope i'm not beating a dead horse!) In the past, I believe the R/T Board changes were made in an effort to curtail the commercial/spec renters. Are these changes being made because we're still having a problem with commercial/spec renters? If so, I'm confused how this would stop them since they'll just make sure to make their two posts per week and from what I can tell by what's being said they will be welcomed with open arms and can rent as much as they want as long as they make two posts a week on other threads.

Or are the changes because the disboards are having an attendance problem? I completely understand the R/T board is a privilege and not a right so whatever the reason, I'm happy to contribute where I can, especially in gratitude for helping me rent out my points when I've needed to. Thanks DISboard!

 

[Deb & Bill]

...While I love helping new people out, I often feel that the "regulars" such as Deb&Bill, Dean, dianeSchlit as well as the moderators answer all the questions and quite frankly their answers usally dwarf the occassional owner posts with their knowledge. ...

Yeah, we post a lot. But if you are looking for opinions on AKV or BLT or BWV, you're not going to get any from me because I don't stay there. Anyone who has stayed there can offer up their recommendations for a view, a floor, a size of villa, etc. You can offer up where you like to dine - I've got my favorites, but there are many places I've never eaten and probably never will. My husband just got me to eat at Marrakesh a few years ago. Not my favorite and I probably won't eat there again. I'm not interested in Sanaa. But a lot of others might be and if you have eaten there, why not share what you found?

There are facts and there are opinions. I may know a lot of facts, but I've only got a few opinions.

 

[Chuck S]

I originally found this board because i was looking to rent out my points one year. After renting my points, I've continued to frequent the boards. While I enjoy reading these boards, I'm part of the 9% that rarely contribute because honestly I'm not quick enough and because I can't for the life of me know why someone would care about MY opinion! . Now if you check my posts you would never think I'm here much other then to rent or rent out points, but I promise I am!

But I do know what the Moderators are saying and if we're having a problem with not enough people contributing, I'll try to do my part, but frankly I'm having trouble finding threads that need any further answers!

While I don't plan on renting out any points in the near future, I'm trying to be a good DISer and put my 2 cents in when I can so I can keep the privilege of renting if I ever need to in the future, but I have to say it's kind of taking the fun out of my occasional lurking because I feel like I'm being forced to speak. Sort of like when your 6th grade teacher used to call you out in front of the class when they thought you weren't paying attention!

I do have a question though? (and i hope i'm not beating a dead horse!) In the past, I believe the R/T Board changes were made in an effort to curtail the commercial/spec renters. Are these changes being made because we're still having a problem with commercial/spec renters? If so, I'm confused how this would stop them since they'll just make sure to make their two posts per week and from what I can tell by what's being said they will be welcomed with open arms and can rent as much as they want as long as they make two posts a week on other threads.

Or are the changes because the disboards are having an attendance problem? I completely understand the R/T board is a privilege and not a right so whatever the reason, I'm happy to contribute where I can, especially in gratitude for helping me rent out my points when I've needed to. Thanks DISboard!

Attendance problems? Nope. Boards are pretty active.

Nor is it a question of "commercial renting," at least if defined as multiple pre-existing reservation offered. We only allow 2 per year, and they must be within 30 days of arrival date.

It boils down to the fact the renting from a DVC member is mostly a matter of trust between the parties. The Rent/Trade board was originally envisioned to be a place where active members of our posting community could offer their extra points and last minute reservations, rather than have to cancel and have the points go into holding.

The internet, even in the best of circumstances, provides anonymity. A place where people can provide a false name, address, and other info. And let's face it, those wanting to rip-off others are in it for fast cash, they aren't going to invest the time to post consistently long term, creating a reviewable posting history. It also helps to weed out those who may have lost access to the Rent/Trade board due to not following our rules. They can not simply create a new user name and repost, they would need to create that posting history before another R/T thread is approved.

Some websites, like TUG2 charge a membership fee, others like Ebay require a percentage of the transaction amount. The DIS does not charge $$, we require a reviewable, and beginning in February, current and continuing posting history.

 

[CarolMN]

HI All,

Trying to understand the new rule....

OK if I want to rent points I have to participate in Non Rent-trade discussions. Does that mean DVC boards or all Disboards? How often?

Any of the Disboard Forums - the posts do NOT have to be on the DVC Forums.

Do the people renting have to be a regular as well? So confused!

No. Anyone can post a reply to an offer made on the R/T Board. No minimum number of posts are required to reply

I have more than 2500 posts over 10 years and love the DIS boards, however I am only participating when I have a trip planned. Is that not the norm? If I don't have a trip planned I generally am not on the boards that much (OK,my DH says that while that is true, I almost always have some Disney trip planned )

But my concern might be that I haven't participated in the recent months yet want/need to rent my points. If I can't I kinda feel jipped. I have spent countless hours helping people on the Disboards as well as receiving amazing advice. Other than being a moderator, how many DVC members are on the boards with frequency of once a day, once a week, once a month? and such?

Two posts a week is all it would take.

Not trying to be difficult, just want to understand. I certainly would want to rent to someone who has references but how does someone get references if no one lets them rent out their points the first time? Did we really have that many members that have been "taken" on the Disboards? If so it makes me so sad!

Again, it's really a reward for those who make the time and effort to participate.

FWIW, you would be surprised at how many are willing to totally ignore all of the posting rules to rent their points. We see no reason to let those people take advantage of DIS resources & give nothing back in return.

Also, no offense to the DVC boards, but I own DVC I know about as much as I can know about it so I don't frequent it as much. While I love helping new people out, I often feel that the "regulars" such as Deb&Bill, Dean, dianeSchlit as well as the moderators answer all the questions and quite frankly their answers usally dwarf the occassional owner posts with their knowledge. So I really only frequent the planning boards such as the cruise or WDW trip planning. Am I not being a good member of the community and not entitled to the "perks" of DVC renting?
Thanks!

I think Deb & Bill answered this quite well - your opinions are very welcome. Your posts on the other forums absolutely count & make you a valued member of the DIS community.

 

[Disney Todd]

Sounds good to add greater security to those involved.

 

[smitette]

Wow, this makes it rough on me, I very rarely have points to rent/transfer. Since my huubby lost his job, I am needing to post

 

[vicki_c]

Wow, this makes it rough on me, I very rarely have points to rent/transfer. Since my huubby lost his job, I am needing to post

Again, there are other places to post points rentals than here (even free places) - you are not limited to the DISboards for renting out your points.

 

[cbouxsein]

I need advice. I have been a member since 2007. We have used our points to take an Alaskan cruise in 2008, and a week vacation at Disney's Hilton Head Resort in 2009. Unfortunately I got to spend 2010 undergoing chemotherapy and radiation (not good for vacation enjoyment We had plans to spend Presidents Day weekend at Disney World (we could use a little FantasyLand right now), but we are part of the big Snow-In going on in Atlanta. Now my kid is going to have to go to school that February Monday, bummer.

I have perused the boards before, but never posted since I am not an expert on anything. I'm rather clueless actually. Today I started looking to see if I could rent my reservation, and read all the rules, including the one about 50 posts to the Boards! Oh my! Does anyone know if it is okay for me to make 50 posts this weekend to qualify? Or does anyone have any other suggestions for me (right now I am thinking about keeping my reservation and flying the husband and one kid back while I drive home in February, but didn't really want to spend the $$$ on airfare - would rather spend them eating out at Disney!)

I'm still trying to figure out how all this works, so any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cathy

 

[smitette]

I need advice. I have been a member since 2007. We have used our points to take an Alaskan cruise in 2008, and a week vacation at Disney's Hilton Head Resort in 2009. Unfortunately I got to spend 2010 undergoing chemotherapy and radiation (not good for vacation enjoyment We had plans to spend Presidents Day weekend at Disney World (we could use a little FantasyLand right now), but we are part of the big Snow-In going on in Atlanta. Now my kid is going to have to go to school that February Monday, bummer.

I have perused the boards before, but never posted since I am not an expert on anything. I'm rather clueless actually. Today I started looking to see if I could rent my reservation, and read all the rules, including the one about 50 posts to the Boards! Oh my! Does anyone know if it is okay for me to make 50 posts this weekend to qualify? Or does anyone have any other suggestions for me (right now I am thinking about keeping my reservation and flying the husband and one kid back while I drive home in February, but didn't really want to spend the $$$ on airfare - would rather spend them eating out at Disney!)

I'm still trying to figure out how all this works, so any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cathy

Hi Cathy.....So sorry that you went through Chemo, bless your heart. I hope that you are doing better. Can you not just have the school excuse your child that day or days?? I would think that they would let them make up work since this was an unforseen event. Just a thought. I hope that all works out so that you all can go and stay. It sounds like a much needed vacation!

 

[Chuck S]

I need advice. I have been a member since 2007. We have used our points to take an Alaskan cruise in 2008, and a week vacation at Disney's Hilton Head Resort in 2009. Unfortunately I got to spend 2010 undergoing chemotherapy and radiation (not good for vacation enjoyment We had plans to spend Presidents Day weekend at Disney World (we could use a little FantasyLand right now), but we are part of the big Snow-In going on in Atlanta. Now my kid is going to have to go to school that February Monday, bummer.

I have perused the boards before, but never posted since I am not an expert on anything. I'm rather clueless actually. Today I started looking to see if I could rent my reservation, and read all the rules, including the one about 50 posts to the Boards! Oh my! Does anyone know if it is okay for me to make 50 posts this weekend to qualify? Or does anyone have any other suggestions for me (right now I am thinking about keeping my reservation and flying the husband and one kid back while I drive home in February, but didn't really want to spend the $$$ on airfare - would rather spend them eating out at Disney!)

I'm still trying to figure out how all this works, so any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cathy

Currently, we are allowing people to catch-up, but we are requiring the posts be made over a 7 to 10 day period, so just this weekend, no.

After February 1st, all posters will need to have those 50 non-Rent/Trade posts made fairly evenly throughout the previous 6 months, no more catch-ups for 50 posts.


So sorry about having thesnow make-up days. After chemo, a WDW trip would have been a great getaway.

 

[Y-ASK]

After February 1st, all posters will need to have those 50 non-Rent/Trade posts made fairly evenly throughout the previous 6 months, no more catch-ups for 50 posts.

I don't really want to go into my history on the board, needless to say I've been around for awhile. Over the last couple of years we've done mostly reading, not so much posting, but that's the way I fly on most of the boards I'm a member of (Love my Tivo community). Any way the issue I have is with the dates. The 1st date of record for the policy change was Nov. 11, 2010. Unfortunately I didn't even see the new policy until just before Christmas (we took a late Nov. Disney Cruise ). But even if I had seen the notice and started posting with some real content at that Nov. 11 2010 date, I still would be two months short of having six months of meaningful post. While I don't have any points to rent right now I'm sure I will in the future, those of us who are long time members but late to the party, are you going to cut us some slack at the beginning of the policy change?

Thanks Mods for all you do,
Y-ASK

 

[cbouxsein]

Currently, we are allowing people to catch-up, but we are requiring the posts be made over a 7 to 10 day period, so just this weekend, no.

After February 1st, all posters will need to have those 50 non-Rent/Trade posts made fairly evenly throughout the previous 6 months, no more catch-ups for 50 posts.


So sorry about having thesnow make-up days. After chemo, a WDW trip would have been a great getaway.

Thanks for the explanation - and there may be hope for us yet! I am posting today to get enough information on how to rent a reservation, and I couldn't post the reservation until the 18th anyway, so if I post several times every day for a week or so, then I should be able to do a reservation for rent in plenty of time to get it rented I'd really rather use it myself - and I still may, but it would be nice to have the option to go another time when we could be a bit more relaxed about it.

I may not be an expert on anything, but I do have my opinions, so I can find something to post about at least

After the chemo, and before the radiation, we also got transferred in 2010 and had to move from San Antonio to Atlanta. Going from a South Texas winter to this Snowmageddon has been a trip! I saw you were from Seguin, so I know you understand

Thanks again,

Cathy

 

[Chuck S]

I don't really want to go into my history on the board, needless to say I've been around for awhile. Over the last couple of years we've done mostly reading, not so much posting, but that's the way I fly on most of the boards I'm a member of (Love my Tivo community). Any way the issue I have is with the dates. The 1st date of record for the policy change was Nov. 11, 2010. Unfortunately I didn't even see the new policy until just before Christmas (we took a late Nov. Disney Cruise ). But even if I had seen the notice and started posting with some real content at that Nov. 11 2010 date, I still would be two months short of having six months of meaningful post. While I don't have any points to rent right now I'm sure I will in the future, those of us who are long time members but late to the party, are you going to cut us some slack at the beginning of the policy change?

Thanks Mods for all you do,
Y-ASK

We are looking for overall consistency in posting during those 6 months. The 50 posts will be required, but at the same time, we do understand that their may be some weeks here and there where people do not post. We do have some minimums we are discussing, but we will not simply post them, or else we'd likely see what we see now...people make their 50 posts and never return to non-R/T boards, with no interest in being a regular active poster until they hit the next required window.

 

[jsthomps]

Great idea ... makes the board safer for all concerned.

 

[Y-ASK]

Excellent! Sounds like you guys have thought this through and are prepared to be reasonable at the beginning which makes sense. Hope it doesn't cause you too much extra work...


Y-ASK

Ooh! That's another post for me . I kid, I kid...

 

[jsthomps]

Excellent! Sounds like you guys have thought this through and are prepared to be reasonable at the beginning which makes sense. Hope it doesn't cause you too much extra work...


Y-ASK

Ooh! That's another post for me . I kid, I kid...

me too