**UPDATE AT BOTTOM OF POST***
**PLEASE , GIVE 3 MINUTES OF YOUR TIME TO READ THIS AND POST IF POSSIBLE**
Hey guys and gals. TweakMan here. Thanks for stopping in. First off , let me apologize for opening this thread. I am totally against opening any thread in the Development & Hacking section unless you are contributing, but this is my only option. So please read on, and show your support for XDA. It will only take a minute to read this, and decide. It takes less to post and show your support.
I opened the "General PPC Questions" thread at the top of this page almost 2 months ago. When I first opened this thread, I believed it would only have 10 to 20 posts max. Now , it has grown into a size I never believed. The amount of support everyone has showed for there fellow PPC users, is amazing!!
This one thread alone has helped answer over 150 questions! It has stopped almost 250 new threads from being opened for a simple question. It's done it's job, and I believe its served this site well!! I am in no way trying to take sole credit for this. All I did was open the thread. It is you amazing people that keep this thread alive and working.
I spend at least 2 to 4 hours a day trying to keep the "Answered & Unanswered Boards" updated, for easier use. But there are still maybe 20% of the original amount of new threads being opened. And I believe I have a solution.
I would really like to see a new section opened in this forum. General Questions. I would be willing to do all of the work, and put the same amount of time and more into it. There are a few features that would help this work. First, in the section, open only 5 threads at the beginning. Software Questions, Theme Questions, PPC Questions, Smartphone Questions, and Other Questions.
Also, and most importantly, make the entire section locked. This should be the only 5 threads that are able to be opened. This makes sure that the section isn't overrun with new threads everyday, making it impossbile to keep organized.
I have a lot of ideas that will make this work. And I promise you if you show your support here I will do my best to make it work as well as and better as the General Questions Thread. But I need your support to even get the moderators to consider this.
When I first posted the idea for the General PPC Question thread, I was flamed and told that it would never work. Look at how well it has done. There are over 300 users that are currently using this thread, with better results than any other site I've seen like this. So this goes out to all of you. Especially the users that use this thread for help. Give me one minute of you time and post a reply here showing you support this idea.
**IF YOU DO NOT SUPPORT THIS, PLEASE DO NOT POST HERE, THIS IS TO HELP XDA. THERE SHOULD BE NOT REASON TO CRITICIZE FOR THAT*******
**LOOK HOW MUCH WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITH 1 THREAD!!!!!! PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT !!!
****************************************************************UPDATE HERE:
****************************************************************
Hey guys. Just giving you an update on the progress of our work here. I just sent the letter to the administrator of the forum, and am now in a waiting game to hear a response.
But until then , I hope you keep showing your support. Also, there are now at least 4 mods supporting this.
Thank you all for your support in this , and the already existing thread. Without you all, each and every one, this wouldn't even be a dream, and the other thread would have already crashed and burned.
And last but not least, Thanks for the ideas. Your guys ideas are what make the already existing thread work. I hope that it happens so that all of our ideas can continue to help clean up this site, and gain our once loved search function back to full capacity !! LOL
So keep the support coming guys. There are over 400 users that use the Questions thread. I hope that you all can return the favor, and show your support here for something that has helped you. This isn't for me, it's always been for XDA.
I will update you as soon as I hear back from the admin.
Keep your fingers crossed and keep showing the love for XDA!!!!
**ALL NEW UPDATES WILL BE POSTED IN THE SECOND POST FROM NOW ON**
RESERVED
This is reserved to update you on how this project is going.
**PLEASE GIVE 1 MINUTE OF YOUR TIME TO POST. IM SURE YOU'VE READ ALOT MORE USLESS THINGS HERE BEFORE. THIS HELPS XDA!!!************
Voted +1.
(What? we can't all have long threads )
Voted +2
its a great idea..im too getting annoyed by new post here and there..
Voted +3
great idea
An Alternative Suggestion
Tweakman,
Instead of implementing your suggestion why don't we create another forum called, say, "Development & Hacking Professional".
This new forum would be locked to all except those who had an application or development to submit. For an author to place his/her item in this new forum he/she would first have to submit their item to a moderator. If it passes the test then the moderator opens a thread in the new forum for that item.
All questions, etc, would be placed in the current Dev & Hacking forum which would, de facto, become the Questions & Answers forum you are seeking to create. The moderators could, over time, move development items already in the current Dev & Hacking forum into the new forum.
To make this work effectively, all developers would have to setup a wiki page for their development. Any valuable hints and tips, registry changes, tweaks, etc, would go into that wiki page as support for the developed item.
The upshot of all this is that if you wanted to find a developed application you search in the new Dev & Hacking Professional forum. If you want support you search the relevant wiki pages.
Searches become simple and fast, support is there without the developers being innundated with crap, and we all live happily ever after.
Just my penny's worth.
WB
PS: BTW, what I am suggesting is not difficult. We did something similar for Schaps when he was developing his roms and getting threads 1000 posts long, most asking the same question that had been answered only 2 posts up if people had bothered to read!
To reduce the support overhead on Schaps, myself and another user put together wiki pages for Schaps as a support and reference point and it worked! You still got the lazy fools posting already answered questions in the main thread; however the wiki page fast tracked any search for solutions to known problems, etc.
It can be done if there is the will by all to make this work.
Give me Moderator status and I will be more than happy to put some legwork in to make this happen.
Good idea tweakman. you have my vote.
@wacky
IMHO doing it your way sounds to me as damage control, while Tweakman's idea is (or should) target the root of the problem...
I do like the wiki idea though
on a side note i'd also like to see a "software request" section,
+1 vote... good idea
I posted a thread about this awhile back, I support this idea
THANKS
Thanks guys !! I wish as many that used the thead would give one min of there time for somethin thats helped so many. I am sending a request to the administrator in the morning, and alread have support from several mods. LETS KEEP TRYIN, IM ONLY DOING THIS TO HELP!!!!!! WEVE COME A LONG WAY WITH ONLY 1 THREAD!!! Almost 400 posts in 2 months!!!!
Yup, I support you too.
UPDATE
Thanks guys! Im sending a request to the administrator in the morning under recommendation from several mods, and those mods, are supporting us as well guys!!!!
So keep your fingers crossed and show the love you have for XDA!!! Simply post a quick reply sayin I SUPPORT THIS!!!
**LOOK HOW MUCH WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITH 1 THREAD!!!!! SHOW YOUR SUPPORT !!!
keep it rocks
Count my vote
good idea, fully support this.
it would tidy the entire forum cos when you think zbout it a lot of the questions posted in the devices threads relate to more than one phone
+vote
D&H definitely needs cleanup.
EDIT: One more idea: what about creating a Themes/skins development section?
Great Idea!
You have my vote
I have seen so many noob's get flamed, and probably scared off the site forever, for asking simple questions that deserve to have a place to be answered.
Any member that dedicates posts to shaming someone, for what they post, should slap themselves. To those members; you were all noobs once, and now you've graduated to become full fledged ASSHOLES! Pull the stick out of your ass and get a real hobby. This is not your private club, and you definately do not look cool when you do **** like that.
XDA is a community for users of EVERY level. Cut new people some slack, quit playing little social exclusion games, and help someone out every now and then. As they grow in knowledge and understanding, they will treat others, on this site, the same way they were treated when they were beginners.
I THINK A GENERAL QUESTIONS SECTION IS AN EXCELLENT IDEA...NO JERKS ALLOWED!
One More
Good idea.
Not sure the post suggesting that a 'Development & Hacking Professional' thread is opened is a good idea though - we are trying to consolidate the information into one place, not spread it more thinly.
+1 from me!
+ 1
Ciao, Andrea
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Too many people are trying to take the easy road and post a new thread on a subject or idea, usually asking a question about something that has already been answered instead of doing a simple search!
I've been a member here for a couple years now and haven't needed to post very much because, if you take the time, the information is out there. 99.9% of the time, you aren't the first person to ask a question, have a problem, or hit a wall.
If you're having trouble doing something that was posted in a thread, POST YOUR QUESTION IN THAT THREAD!!
It seems as though there are a lot of newbies who are anxious to root their Inc, which is fine: If you pay attention, read the instructions and most of the thread before you begin, and follow them to a T . Every time I have a problem either rooting or installing a ROM or something else, I am the one who did something wrong.
Some of you are probably new to the Thread concept, which is also fine. It's very frustrating getting used to how they work, and learning the "right" way to do things- but trust me, it's worth it.
Posting a new thread is like standing on a chair in the middle of a crowded room and screaming out a question. If your in the wrong room (i.e. wrong section), people are going to be upset. If the question was already answered by another group (i.e. another forum), people are also going to be upset. If you aren't sure if you should start a new thread, you probably shouldn't.
Take the time and READ THE RULES! Here they are if you don't know where to find them:
New forum rules, please read!
1. Search before posting.
Use one of our search functions before posting, whether you have a question or something new to share, it's very likely someone already asked that question or shared that news.
2. Member conduct.
2.1 Language: XDA is a worldwide community. As a result what is ‘ok’ to say in your part of the world may not be ok in someone else’s part of the world. Please think about who is reading what you write. Keep in mind that what you think of as acceptable use of language may not be acceptable to others. Conversely, while reading member posts, remember that word you find offensive may not be to the writer. Tolerance is a two way street.
2.2 Nudity: XDA is used by people of all ages, including minors. It's not acceptable to post nude/pornographic imagery, which includes exposure of the male or female genitalia or of female breasts.
2.3 Flaming: XDA was founded as a group of people sharing information about certain mobile phones. Sharing does not involve virtual yelling (flaming) it does involve working together to solve problems in an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Losing your temper and flaming another member, or group of members, is not acceptable behavior.
2.4 Personal attacks, racial, political and/or religious discussions: XDA is a discussion forum about certain mobile phones. Mobile phones are not racial, political, religious or personally offensive, therefore none of these types of discussions are permitted on XDA.
2.5 New Members: Treat new members the way you would have liked to have been treated when you were a new member. Provide the new members with guidance, advice and instruction always with respect and courtesy.
2.6 All members are expected to read and adhere to the XDA rules.
3. Post only using a clear subject and message.
You're most likely to receive a helpful answer to your question if you use a short subject title that describes your problem and a message that explains in detail what your problem is and what you've tried to solve it.
4. Use the English language.
We understand that with all the different nationalities not everyone speaks English well, but please try. If you're really unable to post in English use an online translator, You're free to include your original message in your own language below the English translation.
5. Post a message only once.
As a large forum we don't need unnecessary clutter, You're free to edit your message as you like, so if you do not receive an answer revisit your message and see if you can describe your problem better. Not everyone is online at the same time, it might take a while before you receive an answer.
6. Do not post warez.
If a piece of software requires you to pay to use it, either pay or find your cracks and serials somewhere else. We do not accept warez nor do we permit any member to promote or describe ways in which Warez, cracks, serial codes or other means of avoiding payment, can be obtained.
7. Do not spam.
If you wish to advertise a product, contact us we provide ads. But do not post it in the forums, it will be removed and you're likely to receive a ban.
You are however allowed to sell used goods like your own device, parts of your device or accessories for your device in the marketplace forum, please read the rules there before posting. (This rule includes signatures, if you use a signature it will appear in your post)
8. Donations.
We appreciate all donations to xda-developers.com, it keeps our forum online and well maintained. As a user you're allowed to ask for donations in your signature as a thank you for your hard work. However donations up front are not allowed, this forum is about sharing, not about getting paid to do something, that's what your job is for.
9. Don't get us in trouble.
Don't post copyrighted materials or do other things that will obviously lead to legal trouble. If you wouldn't do it on your own homepage, you probably don't want to do it here either. This does not mean we agree with everything the software piracy lobby try to impose on us, it simply means you cannot break any laws here, since we'll end up dealing with legal hassle caused by you. Please use common sense: respect the forum, its users, and those that write great code.
10. Help others if you can.
If you see posts from others where you can help out, please do. This place exists because people are helping each other, and even if you are relatively new to the matter, there's probably already quite a few people newer than you that would benefit from what you've learned. Don't be shy.
11. Don’t post with the intent on selling something.
As an elaboration to rule number 7, don’t use XDA to advertise your product or service. If you are the proprietor of a for-pay product or service, you may use XDA to get feedback, provide beta access, or offer support on the product, but you may not make any posts with the primary intent of selling. This includes posting press releases, announcements, or links to downloads for trial software. The only exception to this is when you’re posting an exclusive release to XDA.
12. Using the work of others.
If you are developing something that is based on the work of another Member, you MUST first seek their permission, and you must give credit to the member whose work you used. If a dispute occurs about who developed / created a piece of work, first try to settle the matter by private message and NOT in open forum. If this fails then you may contact a moderator with clear evidence that the work was created by you.
Convincing evidence will result in copied work being removed. If there is no clear evidence you created the work then in the spirit of sharing all work will remain posted on the forums.
These rules apply to all software posted on XDA unless that software comes with a license that waives these rules.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So instead of starting a new thread like "How do I.." or "Where do I" or "Why can't I..." Do a search of the threads, Google it, or even hop on over to PPC Geeks, Trust me- you'll find the answers you're looking for.
BTW - Thanks to Mikey1022 for moderating
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Too many people are trying to take the easy road and post a new thread on a subject or idea, usually asking a question about something that has already been answered instead of doing a simple search!
I've been a member here for a couple years now and haven't needed to post very much because, if you take the time, the information is out there. 99.9% of the time, you aren't the first person to ask a question, have a problem, or hit a wall.
If you're having trouble doing something that was posted in a thread, POST YOUR QUESTION IN THAT THREAD!!
It seems as though there are a lot of newbies who are anxious to root their Inc, which is fine: If you pay attention, read the instructions and most of the thread before you begin, and follow them to a T . Every time I have a problem either rooting or installing a ROM or something else, I am the one who did something wrong.
Some of you are probably new to the Thread concept, which is also fine. It's very frustrating getting used to how they work, and learning the "right" way to do things- but trust me, it's worth it.
Posting a new thread is like standing on a chair in the middle of a crowded room and screaming out a question. If your in the wrong room (i.e. wrong section), people are going to be upset. If the question was already answered by another group (i.e. another forum), people are also going to be upset. If you aren't sure if you should start a new thread, you probably shouldn't.
Take the time and READ THE RULES! Here they are if you don't know where to find them:
New forum rules, please read!
1. Search before posting.
Use one of our search functions before posting, whether you have a question or something new to share, it's very likely someone already asked that question or shared that news.
2. Member conduct.
2.1 Language: XDA is a worldwide community. As a result what is ‘ok’ to say in your part of the world may not be ok in someone else’s part of the world. Please think about who is reading what you write. Keep in mind that what you think of as acceptable use of language may not be acceptable to others. Conversely, while reading member posts, remember that word you find offensive may not be to the writer. Tolerance is a two way street.
2.2 Nudity: XDA is used by people of all ages, including minors. It's not acceptable to post nude/pornographic imagery, which includes exposure of the male or female genitalia or of female breasts.
2.3 Flaming: XDA was founded as a group of people sharing information about certain mobile phones. Sharing does not involve virtual yelling (flaming) it does involve working together to solve problems in an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Losing your temper and flaming another member, or group of members, is not acceptable behavior.
2.4 Personal attacks, racial, political and/or religious discussions: XDA is a discussion forum about certain mobile phones. Mobile phones are not racial, political, religious or personally offensive, therefore none of these types of discussions are permitted on XDA.
2.5 New Members: Treat new members the way you would have liked to have been treated when you were a new member. Provide the new members with guidance, advice and instruction always with respect and courtesy.
2.6 All members are expected to read and adhere to the XDA rules.
3. Post only using a clear subject and message.
You're most likely to receive a helpful answer to your question if you use a short subject title that describes your problem and a message that explains in detail what your problem is and what you've tried to solve it.
4. Use the English language.
We understand that with all the different nationalities not everyone speaks English well, but please try. If you're really unable to post in English use an online translator, You're free to include your original message in your own language below the English translation.
5. Post a message only once.
As a large forum we don't need unnecessary clutter, You're free to edit your message as you like, so if you do not receive an answer revisit your message and see if you can describe your problem better. Not everyone is online at the same time, it might take a while before you receive an answer.
6. Do not post warez.
If a piece of software requires you to pay to use it, either pay or find your cracks and serials somewhere else. We do not accept warez nor do we permit any member to promote or describe ways in which Warez, cracks, serial codes or other means of avoiding payment, can be obtained.
7. Do not spam.
If you wish to advertise a product, contact us we provide ads. But do not post it in the forums, it will be removed and you're likely to receive a ban.
You are however allowed to sell used goods like your own device, parts of your device or accessories for your device in the marketplace forum, please read the rules there before posting. (This rule includes signatures, if you use a signature it will appear in your post)
8. Donations.
We appreciate all donations to xda-developers.com, it keeps our forum online and well maintained. As a user you're allowed to ask for donations in your signature as a thank you for your hard work. However donations up front are not allowed, this forum is about sharing, not about getting paid to do something, that's what your job is for.
9. Don't get us in trouble.
Don't post copyrighted materials or do other things that will obviously lead to legal trouble. If you wouldn't do it on your own homepage, you probably don't want to do it here either. This does not mean we agree with everything the software piracy lobby try to impose on us, it simply means you cannot break any laws here, since we'll end up dealing with legal hassle caused by you. Please use common sense: respect the forum, its users, and those that write great code.
10. Help others if you can.
If you see posts from others where you can help out, please do. This place exists because people are helping each other, and even if you are relatively new to the matter, there's probably already quite a few people newer than you that would benefit from what you've learned. Don't be shy.
11. Don’t post with the intent on selling something.
As an elaboration to rule number 7, don’t use XDA to advertise your product or service. If you are the proprietor of a for-pay product or service, you may use XDA to get feedback, provide beta access, or offer support on the product, but you may not make any posts with the primary intent of selling. This includes posting press releases, announcements, or links to downloads for trial software. The only exception to this is when you’re posting an exclusive release to XDA.
12. Using the work of others.
If you are developing something that is based on the work of another Member, you MUST first seek their permission, and you must give credit to the member whose work you used. If a dispute occurs about who developed / created a piece of work, first try to settle the matter by private message and NOT in open forum. If this fails then you may contact a moderator with clear evidence that the work was created by you.
Convincing evidence will result in copied work being removed. If there is no clear evidence you created the work then in the spirit of sharing all work will remain posted on the forums.
These rules apply to all software posted on XDA unless that software comes with a license that waives these rules.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So instead of starting a new thread like "How do I.." or "Where do I" or "Why can't I..." Do a search of the threads, Google it, or even hop on over to PPC Geeks, Trust me- you'll find the answers you're looking for.
BTW - Thanks to Mikey1022 for moderating
+100000000000000000000000
I wish people had to read this before they could post new threads. This forum seems to be worse than most of the other android forums on xda... not sure why.
Everyone who disagrees with this should check out the nexus one forum to get an idea of how lax things are here.
+100000000000000000000000
I wish people had to read this before they could post new threads. This forum seems to be worse than most of the other android forums on xda... not sure why.
Everyone who disagrees with this should check out the nexus one forum to get an idea of how lax things are here.
You better watch it. Some people may take offense to this. people also have to be aware when they do make a new thread that it is in the correct section. Too many questions are being posted in Development instead of General. Let's keep the sections on topic so people can find what they came looking for.
You better watch it. Some people may take offense to this. people also have to be aware when they do make a new thread that it is in the correct section. Too many questions are being posted in Development instead of General. Let's keep the sections on topic so people can find what they came looking for.
I agree, but I can see the other side as well.
The "Root process" thread is up to 108 pages. Sure, searching helps, but you are still poring over pages and pages of forums for hours. I kind of learned that this was the buy-in from my WinMo days, but that doesn't make it less frustrating.
One advantage to sticking to existing threads, however, is that people who are successful will probably post back to that thread, with any variations they used, whereas they are less likely to post to a new thread.
I agree, but I can see the other side as well.
The "Root process" thread is up to 108 pages. Sure, searching helps, but you are still poring over pages and pages of forums for hours. I kind of learned that this was the buy-in from my WinMo days, but that doesn't make it less frustrating.
One advantage to sticking to existing threads, however, is that people who are successful will probably post back to that thread, with any variations they used, whereas they are less likely to post to a new thread.
Calibob2001 said:
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Too many people are trying to take the easy road and post a new thread on a subject or idea, usually asking a question about something that has already been answered instead of doing a simple search!
I've been a member here for a couple years now and haven't needed to post very much because, if you take the time, the information is out there. 99.9% of the time, you aren't the first person to ask a question, have a problem, or hit a wall.
If you're having trouble doing something that was posted in a thread, POST YOUR QUESTION IN THAT THREAD!!
It seems as though there are a lot of newbies who are anxious to root their Inc, which is fine: If you pay attention, read the instructions and most of the thread before you begin, and follow them to a T . Every time I have a problem either rooting or installing a ROM or something else, I am the one who did something wrong.
Some of you are probably new to the Thread concept, which is also fine. It's very frustrating getting used to how they work, and learning the "right" way to do things- but trust me, it's worth it.
Posting a new thread is like standing on a chair in the middle of a crowded room and screaming out a question. If your in the wrong room (i.e. wrong section), people are going to be upset. If the question was already answered by another group (i.e. another forum), people are also going to be upset. If you aren't sure if you should start a new thread, you probably shouldn't.
Take the time and READ THE RULES! Here they are if you don't know where to find them:
So instead of starting a new thread like "How do I.." or "Where do I" or "Why can't I..." Do a search of the threads, Google it, or even hop on over to PPC Geeks, Trust me- you'll find the answers you're looking for.
BTW - Thanks to Mikey1022 for moderating
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Calibob2001 said:
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Too many people are trying to take the easy road and post a new thread on a subject or idea, usually asking a question about something that has already been answered instead of doing a simple search!
I've been a member here for a couple years now and haven't needed to post very much because, if you take the time, the information is out there. 99.9% of the time, you aren't the first person to ask a question, have a problem, or hit a wall.
If you're having trouble doing something that was posted in a thread, POST YOUR QUESTION IN THAT THREAD!!
It seems as though there are a lot of newbies who are anxious to root their Inc, which is fine: If you pay attention, read the instructions and most of the thread before you begin, and follow them to a T . Every time I have a problem either rooting or installing a ROM or something else, I am the one who did something wrong.
Some of you are probably new to the Thread concept, which is also fine. It's very frustrating getting used to how they work, and learning the "right" way to do things- but trust me, it's worth it.
Posting a new thread is like standing on a chair in the middle of a crowded room and screaming out a question. If your in the wrong room (i.e. wrong section), people are going to be upset. If the question was already answered by another group (i.e. another forum), people are also going to be upset. If you aren't sure if you should start a new thread, you probably shouldn't.
Take the time and READ THE RULES! Here they are if you don't know where to find them:
So instead of starting a new thread like "How do I.." or "Where do I" or "Why can't I..." Do a search of the threads, Google it, or even hop on over to PPC Geeks, Trust me- you'll find the answers you're looking for.
BTW - Thanks to Mikey1022 for moderating
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Calibob2001 said:
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know they won't. The ones who post these repeated topics are the ones who freak out when they're lost, post a topic, and hit refresh all day instead of looking for the answer. The only ones who actually read this are the ones already pissed off about it.
Calibob2001 said:
Hopefully this catches the eyes of those who need to read it most...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know they won't. The ones who post these repeated topics are the ones who freak out when they're lost, post a topic, and hit refresh all day instead of looking for the answer. The only ones who actually read this are the ones already pissed off about it.
barry1685 said:
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, I didn't even read it. Just scrolled to through the comments
barry1685 said:
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, I didn't even read it. Just scrolled to through the comments
bluetooth_decay said:
I agree, but I can see the other side as well.
The "Root process" thread is up to 108 pages. Sure, searching helps, but you are still poring over pages and pages of forums for hours. I kind of learned that this was the buy-in from my WinMo days, but that doesn't make it less frustrating.
One advantage to sticking to existing threads, however, is that people who are successful will probably post back to that thread, with any variations they used, whereas they are less likely to post to a new thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are so many pages of topics because of the issue that is being described. There is a very handy function called "search" that, while not perfect, at least narrows results down for you. You can search within a Section, Topic or down to a single thread for key words.
Odds are, if you are on here you know how to navigate the web. If you can't perform a basic search in a topic or thread then please don't try to root your phone or follow any instructions to change, modify or "hack" anything.
As was brought out by [OP], if you WANT to do something that you think will be useful to you, read up on it. If you do run into an issue, search the key word of your issue. Entering "boot loop", "frozen", "Error message 123" will return something to help you find your answer. Odds are, you are not alone and, if you find you are alone, return to the thread where you were following instructions to do whatever it was you want to do and post a reply describing your issues. [OP] or others who are familiar with the process will help. Patience is a must.
bluetooth_decay said:
I agree, but I can see the other side as well.
The "Root process" thread is up to 108 pages. Sure, searching helps, but you are still poring over pages and pages of forums for hours. I kind of learned that this was the buy-in from my WinMo days, but that doesn't make it less frustrating.
One advantage to sticking to existing threads, however, is that people who are successful will probably post back to that thread, with any variations they used, whereas they are less likely to post to a new thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are so many pages of topics because of the issue that is being described. There is a very handy function called "search" that, while not perfect, at least narrows results down for you. You can search within a Section, Topic or down to a single thread for key words.
Odds are, if you are on here you know how to navigate the web. If you can't perform a basic search in a topic or thread then please don't try to root your phone or follow any instructions to change, modify or "hack" anything.
As was brought out by [OP], if you WANT to do something that you think will be useful to you, read up on it. If you do run into an issue, search the key word of your issue. Entering "boot loop", "frozen", "Error message 123" will return something to help you find your answer. Odds are, you are not alone and, if you find you are alone, return to the thread where you were following instructions to do whatever it was you want to do and post a reply describing your issues. [OP] or others who are familiar with the process will help. Patience is a must.
barry1685 said:
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Far too long than I care to admit - My first draft was rather angry and the overtone has calmed quite a bit...
And even if ONE newbie reads it and gleans even a whisper of insight as to how to operate the forums, then I have been 100% successful- even if 1% of those who read it take this to heart, at this point, that's still 2 fewer Threads the moderators have to close down...
barry1685 said:
How much time did you spend writing this? No ones going to pay attention.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Far too long than I care to admit - My first draft was rather angry and the overtone has calmed quite a bit...
And even if ONE newbie reads it and gleans even a whisper of insight as to how to operate the forums, then I have been 100% successful- even if 1% of those who read it take this to heart, at this point, that's still 2 fewer Threads the moderators have to close down...
i agree with this
Calibob2001 said:
Far too long than I care to admit - My first draft was rather angry and the overtone has calmed quite a bit...
And even if ONE newbie reads it and gleans even a whisper of insight as to how to operate the forums, then I have been 100% successful- even if 1% of those who read it take this to heart, at this point, that's still 2 fewer Threads the moderators have to close down...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
9 times out of 10 - even if they DO search,it's only once,and when they don't find the answer - instead of trying a different search, they go right to posting a new thread. You have to try a few different variations of your search first,and more than likely you WILL find the answer. It's just a matter of patience and thought.
Shouldn't this be in the rant section? Lol...I kid, I kid.
Had an atrix for a few months now and have come to this forum almost daily to read and learn but have not posted until now. Below are just a couple general questions/opinions that I have based on how this forum conducts itself especially compared to other forums I frequent.
1. Why do people think they are owed something by devs and especially for it to be done on a timetable? To the best of my knowledge these people all have work/school/family’s/friends and work on this stuff on there own time and are not paid to do it.
note: to those who complain about making donations to devs and thinking this entitles you to the above learn the definition of DONATION, summarized as “gifts given to benefit a cause with nothing expected in return.”...otherwise it would be a purchase, investment, or wage.
2. Why can’t people read a thread before starting a thread or posting a reply, usually to ask a question that was already answered several times already in that thread or others?
3. In relation to question 2, why does this forum not have more moderators, especially in the Dev forum were people can’t seem to grasp what should be posted in there or what a appropriate reply is. Almost every thread worth readying takes 5x longer to read than it should to weed through the morons who seem to just want to voice there 2cents worth (and most isn’t worth that).
My theory is, if everyone just took a few minutes to search and read before posting then not only would they not fill the forum with junk they would also learn and potentially be able to contribute to the overall knowledge of the forum. I do want to thank those who already do this, I know I have learned an immense amount after coming here a complete android noob.
I agree with you for donations, however, I take exception on those who have spread themselves too thin, have opened up way too many projects and failed to deliver usable results on any of them. If you've got the donation pot out and you fail to deliver on all your promises, expect some reverb to come your way.
As for the rest of your post, you're definitely preaching to the choir
I'll be honest, I'm a little disappointed in the tone that gets set through this forum sometimes. Just like the devs have families/jobs/life outside of this forum so does everyone else. Now I 100% agree with using the search feature or even google to find information you need, I just think it doesn't always have to take a smart a$$ response when someone asks a question.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
I agree with you fully and that is why I truely believe my idea would clean up the forums immensely. (at least the important part - dev section)
Create ANOTHER sub-forum dedicated to announcements/discussions by actual developers. Make this forum public so all can read and keep up to date, but only those specifically allowed, such as recognized developers are allowed to reply. You could even split the existing dev section into two: Recognized Developer talk/User Developments.
This would:
1. Stop people asking for release dates, they are able to see exactly what is being done and when
2. Stop the release threads, such as PseudoROMs and Fastboot files for new SBFs getting clogged with "0MGz Tkx BRuu!"
3. Maybe make more developers post about their current status if they know they aren't going to cause another flame war or pointless thread due to arguing.
Just my two cents.
- DarkRyoushii
DarkRyoushii said:
I agree with you fully and that is why I truely believe my idea would clean up the forums immensely. (at least the important part - dev section)
Create ANOTHER sub-forum dedicated to announcements/discussions by actual developers. Make this forum public so all can read and keep up to date, but only those specifically allowed, such as recognized developers are allowed to reply. You could even split the existing dev section into two: Recognized Developer talk/User Developments.
This would:
1. Stop people asking for release dates, they are able to see exactly what is being done and when
2. Stop the release threads, such as PseudoROMs and Fastboot files for new SBFs getting clogged with "0MGz Tkx BRuu!"
3. Maybe make more developers post about their current status if they know they aren't going to cause another flame war or pointless thread due to arguing.
Just my two cents.
- DarkRyoushii
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
we tried this on the samdroid forum and it worked ...keep a dev section for releases and a discussion section for the releases.
so every mod/rom had a thread in the dev section (restricted to dev's only for posting) and a thread in the discussion section for questions and thanks etc.
This post is designed to promote proper forum etiquette. There has been a distressing trend in the XDA forums of laziness, impatience and rudeness. My goal is to curtail this and help promote the environment that XDA was designed to be.
A fun place for different people of varying technical experience to get together and learn from each other and to encourage out of the box thinking and design.
In order to accomplish this we, as a community must follow certain guidelines and have certain understandings. The following list is by no means all inclusive and in the true spirit of XDA, I welcome ANY and ALL constructive comments or additions.
1.The XDA forums are NOT a funded, company driven organization.
a. The participants are other people generally like you, with jobs, families and Outside XDA (OXDA) lives. Remember that and try to treat them as such.
2.You are NOT entitled to anything.
a. If a developer creates an App or ROM or Kernel (ARK) and freely distributes it, remember that. FREE. Nothing is really for free. That individual spent his/her time in the development of that ARK and is either looking for feedback or simply enjoying sharing it with the community
b. You may feel negatively about that ARK, that’s OK. Ensure to voice your concerns in a CONSTRUCTIVE way or don’t voice them at all.
c. Don't hassle the OP about release dates of ARKs. They will share with the community when they feel it's ready and not before. If they didn't, they'd be opening the door to lots of criticism and "Halp! this is Broken!" (<-- Franco used that first I think ) type comments.
3.NOT EVERYONE is on the same technical level as you.
a. There is no need to be rude or condescending to someone who has less knowledge than you.
b. By the same token, if you have less knowledge than those in the topic you've chosen to join, it’s always a good idea to remark on that if you ask a question; you may receive a more precise answer the first time.
c. If you've received an answer from someone via PM or figured it out on your own… SHARE it with the community. Chances are someone else has that issue also
4. ***REMEMBER THE 5 MINUTE RULE*** The 5 minute rule, as it applies to conversations, states that “You must be a part of a conversation for at least 5 minutes prior to asking a question.”
a. This same rule applies in forums as well. Read at least 10 pages or 2 days’ worth of posts PRIOR to asking a question.
b. There is little more that will set off seasoned forum members that the save question being asked 2 or 3 pages in a row because someone figured they would just “Pop on” and ask a question in the first topic they thought was appropriate.
5.Google Search Does Work.
a. No one likes to help those who don’t help themselves.
b. If you’ve found your way onto the XDA forums site, you understand how Google works. Use it to search for your answer first. You might be surprised by how easy it is to find an answer.
6.Most devices have a General Question and Answer (Q&A) Topic.
a. Use this if resource if your question is Off-Topic (OT).
7.READ THE OP.
a. The OP (Original Poster) is the individual who creates a thread. Commonly OP is the term used for the first post(s) on the first page of a thread, such as this one. I'll be referring to the common definition of the initial few posts.
b. A lot of the redundant posts have already been answered in the OP.
c. Failure to read the OP (+ the other initial post by the Topic’s creator) often leads to post after post of members saying the same thing…READ THE OP.
8.Betas and Alphas.
a. Often apps in development will be released in the forums as Beta or Alpha (Test) software.
b. Test software MAY DO HORRIBLE THINGS TO YOUR DEVICE. This is not likely but understand that if you participate in test programs, the author does not have any responsibility for any damage caused to your device.
9.Paid APPs.
a. An author may offer a paid version of his/her app(s) on the Play Store. The author may also have a Topic on XDA for that app.
b. Here is where the water gets murky.i. You have paid real money for a bit of software, and therefore expect a reasonable amount of support.
ii. Often that support can and does come from other forum members.
iii. If your problem is still not resolved, don’t get snippy with the forum members, rather contact the developer directly (usually through their email from the play store).
10.DON’T FALSELY BOLSTER YOUR PROFILE.
a. Most members of Topics are subscribed to many other Topics. You may see them there too.
b. Creating a second profile or using a friend to “Thank” your posts undeservingly is not only underhanded but other members will realize what you are doing. This is also against XDA Forum Rules. Perpetrators will be caught and banned.
c. There is no benefit to having eleventy-billion thanks if you have nothing of value to contribute.
d. YOUR PROFILE WILL BUILD AS YOU BECOME MORE ACTIVE IN THE FORUMS. This is not a video game where reaching Recognized Developer will afford you riches beyond compare. It’s actually useless if you lied and schemed to get there.
11.Vulgarity & Rudeness.
a. There is no need to be vulgar (in any language) on XDA.
b. The forum members are a community of Men, Women, Teens and some really intelligent Sub-teens . Foul language is neither constructive nor appreciated.
c. What is the point of being rude, either to your fellow XDA-ers or to the OP. Please don't feel that anonymity grants you license to be rude or disrespectful.
d. Due to the multiple countries & languages involved, it is nearly inevitable that someone will take something the wrong way, I have. Try to curb the natural lash out reflex and probably you'll find more of a language barrier than someone who was intentionally trying to be rude.
12.Ignored Private Messages (PMs).
a. Some developers and more senior members don’t/rarely respond to PMs from people they don’t know.
b. Often they have hundreds or thousands of people who use their ARK and cannot hope to respond to all via PM. Some of these (NRGZ28, Franco Francisco, Romanbb, WugFresh…), are so busy constantly making their ARK better for YOU, they often don’t have time to pop in on their own threads as much as the user would like. THAT IS THE STRENGTH OF XDAs MEMBER COMMUNITY. Use it appropriately and you will prosper. Abuse it and you might find yourself shunned.
13.Posted Pictures.
a. We love PROOF, as a community. With all the slag on the Internets™ and the Googles™ (TM George W. Bush) we are often skeptical. That being said, it is not necessary to post every screen shot of your battery life, signal strength etc..
b. If it is not possible to describe your issue or if your issue requires a visual aid, great, use it.
c. If it isn't necessary, use a Dropbox account or the like and share the link. This accomplishes the following..
i. It reduces the storage load on XDAs servers.
ii. It minimizes clutter in threads making it easier for people to follow guideline #4 and for others to locate what they need
iii. It reduces Data usage for people using cellular data to browse XDA.
14.Stay on Topic.
a.If the conversation strays too far from the topic you will give new people the wrong impression and clutter up the post with unrelated conversations. Little jokes are OK and a pleasant break but if the conversation has veered too far from the OP topic, it’s best to either form a new topic for that discussion, find the topic in which it belongs or continue via PM, Email, G-chat etc.
15. Don't Forget to Hit Thanks!
a. If someone has helped you, in a PM or in a thread, hitting "Thanks" shows them & others you appreciate their efforts and adds to their DESERVED status.
I welcome all new members and look forward to helping anyone that I can. Please remember, this list was not created out of malice but out of respect for this community and to aid new members in adjusting to our way of life, so to speak. .
Thank-You for all the suggestions, please feel free to continue to make our XDA better!
thanks for putting this together... you may just want to note, OP is the Original Poster, not the first post...just sayin'
Re: [Guide] Forum Etiquette
n7of9 said:
thanks for putting this together... you may just want to note, OP is the Original Poster, not the first post...just sayin'
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I actually didn't know that's what it stood for. I do know that the OP is what the first post is commonly referred to. I'll add it.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Re: [Guide] Forum Etiquette
Great write up OP
One suggestion - at 10 b) Add not to create more than profile as it's against forum rules and will get all accounts banned.
"I don't care if you're the next Chainfire or just some random spammer. If you can't make 10 posts, you shouldn't be on XDA."
awesome write up....now if people would actually read it and follow it... they read the XDA forum rules and seem to forget it 5 minutes later
another suggestion would be not to ask for ETAs of ARK..im sure alot of devs get sick and tired of seeing all the people asking for
ETAs thier threads
ps.....i put a link to this thread in my sig
if its not ok with you i will remove it
OP Updated with member suggestions.
Re: [Guide] Forum Etiquette
n7of9 said:
thanks for putting this together... you may just want to note, OP is the Original Poster, not the first post...just sayin'
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OP refers to Original poster or Original Post as the statement or sentence intends it to be!
No compulsions! just saying!
@Op (here I mean Original poster)
Very well written wish now every new user bothers to have a good read before posting!
Sens7t from my MT11i using xda premium
Re: [Guide] Forum Etiquette
Id like some kind of loophole in #11 please... it seems to be a new cultural flaw to pretend to be offended at anything and everything.
It's easy to complain when you don't have to prove anything.
Please allow for puns.. Word plays.. Inuendo etc.. or at least require some kind of verification.
It's the Internet, not kindergarten.
We have all kinds here..
Bring your own Purel...
If you're here, I suspect you're good with computers and therefore know who built the Internet..
I'd really like to say that I know the local youth minister will pop in here and not get anywhere complaining about all the "OMG" posts
(I'm a former youth minister.. I can say that)
n7of9 said:
thanks for putting this together... you may just want to note, OP is the Original Poster, not the first post...just sayin'
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, I believe that it references Opening Post, not Original Poster. Oftentimes, folks are directed to the OP (Opening Post) to answer questions originally posted in the first post of the thread.
Re: [Guide] Forum Etiquette
MarkAtHome said:
Actually, I believe that it references Opening Post, not Original Poster. Oftentimes, folks are directed to the OP (Opening Post) to answer questions originally posted in the first post of the thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's both original post AND original poster.
Sent from my HTC One V using Tapatalk 2
it doesn't actually matter, we all know this, right? and we've had 3 replies about it, so now let's make it 4
http://www.internetslang.com/OP-meaning-definition.asp
I noticed that this thread/OP has been linked to in people's signatures, and rightly so. But it does not seem to refer to two common breaches of etiquette, namely asking what is the best rom and asking for thanks button presses. Although the last might need qualifying by "instead of posting thanks".
Great job though:good::good: