I've been silent on the issue of membership status - grandfathering - contributors - and, umm, submit-challenged individuals, 'til now.
Fact: SI is a content driven site. If people don't post, people won't read. The quotes and other fringe features are very nice to have and add value, but are not of unique benefit without the real-time interactive discussion. I see GNET as extending the offerings, both free and fee based. But, they need an active and targeted customer base to drive the enterprise value, something which SI surely has.
I think the answer to the point of the membership status discussion is crystal clear. Active members will maintain their current standing, whether paid or not. Paid members will maintain their standing, whether active or not. Non-paying non-posting members are standing on the edge of the abyss and need to contribute to be grandfathered, or face paying up or losing posting privileges and/or real-time access.
Management is probably not in a position to comment on the future, since they are in a state of negotiation as they plan the wedding. There is almost certainly language in the current agreements that prohibit them from changing any basic operating or membership principles.
I do not speak for SI in any manner, nor am I privy to their negotiations. But, I'll venture a personal opinion for the non-paid submit-challenged who want to protect their privileges:
A window of opportunity looms before you, but it may close. Seize the moment and convert your status into a contributing member. I think it matters not what or where - but something in your message log is surely better than nothing. Make yourself into something of value to SI/GNET - an active member. Don't be worried about the worthiness of the content - you'll do fine. Take me for example - what I lack in substantive content I more than make up for in sheer volume. Try it - you'll like it!
Further Affiant Sayeth Not. |
