The Hot 20 To *V* or Not To Be

The Constant Hot Topic Its been brought up, dragged through the mud, burned, and beaten time and time again...that darned old Hot 20. It has been a hot topic on many occasions, and in many forums. But, is it important? Is it what many strive for? Is the Hot 20 worth striving for? Most importantly, should it stay, should it change, or should it go? The Deal How does it work? Heres the rundown. An image is posted to the gallery. Other members viewing it can either rate, comment, add the artist or image to favorites, or vote on it. Accepting ratings and comments are optional to the artist when uploading. Voting, however, is currently not an optional setting. The Hot 20 is based on the number of votes an image received in the previous 7 days. But one member can generate only one vote on a particular image during this seven-day period. This means that a single member cannot vote on the same image again until 7 days has passed, but is free to vote on as many other images as they choose. Simple enough, right? Theoretically, this system should work properly enough, but ... To *V* or not to *V*? That is the question, isnt it? The answer, however, is murky. Why? Voting is anonymous, unless of course, one publicly states (*V*) it in comments under the image. Clicking the vote button takes no more time than checking the clock on ones monitor. One can vote on as many images as they like. Why then, is the Hot 20 most often not a good representation of the gallery it belongs to? It is true that some members with a large following will continually get votes. However, it is also true that other members with a large following will not. Then, of course, there are those that may never see the Hot 20, though their work may be just as deserving. But maybe, just maybe, that vote button is not used enough. Why is it so daunting to some? Is it that some feel the Hot 20 has gone on to be a popularity contest which is beyond repair? Is it that some want nothing to do with it? Encouraging members to vote, usually results in a negative response. Ill be quite honest, as I myself no longer look at the Hot 20 because of it. But it is still important enough that the complaints continue. Endnotes- Mine, Yours, and Ours Can the Hot 20 work? Maybe, with a bit of change. Maybe, in the way in which the votes are received so as to eliminate one artist holding more than one spot at a time. That could be a step in the right direction. Maybe, with more participation. But, for now, it is time to get your opinions on the matter. That is you, the readers, the members and voice of the Renderosity Community Our community. So, what say you? Should it stay, should it change, or should it go? Please consider honest, but helpful feedback.

Nicks Notes is a regular featured column with Renderosity Staff Writer Nick Sorbin [vclaszlo].

January 16, 2005

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