This is just a thread started so that one of the threads in the advertsing forum (http://www.webhostingtalk.com/showthread.php?threadid=4006) doesn't end up being the place that this issue is debated.

The advertsing forum has been set up mainly for hosts (but not limited to hosting offers, etc.), as a place where you (the host) can announce your packages, specials, and offerings in general.

I personally don't want to set limits on the number of posts you (as a host) can make here for two reasons:

One, is that the Advertsing Forum is intentionally a bit looser than the others, as we are pretty strict on the other forums. I don't want *more* rules that make it seem we are limiting hosts from posting here.

Two, this would mean that if you posted once already, but wanted to post a special you just thought of, or deal you came across (that you wanted to offer to your clients), that you'd have to wait possibly a week to post it.

Anyway, I think BC feels the same way, but wanted to start a thread in case others had views on the subject. Note that there *may* be disagreements about how the forum should be used (rules or not), and I'll just ask that this be a civil discussion.

Of course the comments here will be considered, but I rather like the fact that the advertsing forum is more active than it used to be, and that hosts are using it (successfully even!). It used to be a dead forum that nobody went to. Posting there used to be almost pointless. By keeping the specials current, and your offers fresh and for a limited time, this forum has now become a much better resource for the members! (And for that, I'd like to thank the hosts - especially all of you who replied to my thread listing your company and your services!!!)

Anywhooo- a long (very long) way of saying, let the discussion begin...

I dont see any problem in a host posting repeatedly in the advertising forum. Let people judge for themselves. For me personally, I would not choose a host who post countless times in that forum, cos they are either

1. newbie just starting out and trying too hard to get their them 'out there', or

2. empty vessel that makes the most noise.

If they belong to (1), the over-enthusiasm will usually die away sooner or later. If they belong to (2), their business will never last anyway. :D

Personally I don't see a problem with people posting when they want in the advertising forum (That's why it's there), OK if is was like 4 times a day I suppose it would be a pain but it's not so why bother with it?

I don't feel any problem with the postings of plans in the advertising forum...i think thats what for this forum is made for...if anyone doesn't wanna see these posting then no need to go to advertising forum...simple
sachin

I think more than 1 ad a day is way overkill. But I see no reason to set rules right now until we see someone abusing it.

This is true. Over posting is one thing, but it is up to the host that posts to consider whether he is doing more harm than good.

I really don't mind if someone posts their plans every day, but it does make that host seem desperate. I doubt that posting ad nauseum will produce much business. In fact, I think it will hurt business. You know what they say about too much of a good thing (who are they anyways?).

Oh well, if you dont want to read them you dont have to, but let people dig their own graves!

--Going to bed (just moved into my first new house and I am tired....very tired!)

Later peeps.

I'm all for leaving it up to the customers to decide.

The only real problem (for admins to deal with) would be if someone was spamming or the like - practices like replying to your own ad simply to get it back up the top, or posting so many ads that it disadvantages those of others.

Basically, just as long as it's all equitable. But I don't think there's been any problems where it's been inequitable have there?

Really, even though it has been more busy lately, and some hosts do post more than others, it seems that everyone respects the fact that although it *is* a looser forum, they don't abuse it. I think a post every few days or so is fine, but more than that would be excessive. I mean, there are only *so many* offers you could come up with.

As with anything on the forum, if you feel a host or member is being abusive or bending the rules (there have ben times where we've had to scratch our heads because things weren't quite black or white), please don't hesitate to contact us.

We condsider and discuss ALL comments made by members. I can't promise you that the situation will be resolved to your satisfaction, nor that your comment will lead to immediate action, but at least it brings a concern of yours to our attention.

I would be inclined to suggest that different posts from the same host would be acceptable (because things change, and sometimes they change daily), but not repeated "HEY WE'RE GREAT COME LOOK AT US WE'RE YIPPEE YAHOO TERRIFIC"-type posts, or ones where the poster puts everything into capitals or goes overboard.

I do realize that the whole point of the forum is to "make some noise" but there comes a point when it becomes excessive.

What might also work is limiting the number of posts in the forum for a user to no more than the number of posts they post elsewhere. For example, if I post 5 times in other forums, I should be allowed up to 5 posts in the ad forum. This would make sure that the people who are here to help get a fair shake and those who are just here to try and spam the board in an attempt to get new business are forced to rethink their strategy somewhat.