Would the Chicago Reader consider charging for this site?

About This Message Board
1

I had an OP eaten and then swallowed into a great abyss this afternoon. I couldn’t even hit the “back” button to try to at least retrieve what I’d typed to copy and paste when I tried again. Of course, I wasn’t sure I should try again because I didn’t want to make 18 copies of the OP, either. As it turned out, I had to wait for more of a “down” time and try again.

It’s no secret that this server is beyond overloaded, and beyond frustrating for everyone at times. We know The Chicago Reader doesn’t care all that much because there is little to no revenue gained from us.

So…what if there was? I, for one, who have no problem paying $3-5 a month to subscribe here. With all of the members, that could mean a hefty income for TCR–even if only a small percentage paid. What if there was a paid subscription site, leaving this one up for those unwilling to pay?

I know there has to be others willing to shell out a few bucks for the SDMB addiction.

Is this at all a feasible idea?

2

Well they want to but just check the archives for user reaction to a survey checking into the idea

I think the problem is they havent figured out a way to do it yet that everyone likes

But for a few weeks there were more than one 5+ page threads arguing over this

3

I would certainly shell out a few bucks for a subscription if this board was at least readable let alone post able.

Heck, I hardly even post and I’d still pay.

So what’s the deal anyway? I thought there was something already “in the works” for a paid site.

:confused:

4

Here’s an idea: Leave ATMB, CCC, CSR, and GQ open to the general public and start charging (something in the range of three to five bucks a month) for the ability to post in the “fun” forums (Cafe Society, IMHO, MPSIMS, and the Pit). That way, the Reader would be able to generate income and reduce bandwidth without putting a damper on the “official” function of the board: answering questions and allowing users to leave feedback regarding the columns.

5

Here’s a thread from last year discussing this at length: SDMB Charging for Access - Comments

6

I know the reaction to paying for the site will get the predictable outcries, but considering how massive this thing has grown, the amount of work involved in maintaining it, and the amount of creaks and groans from a deluged server, it just seems sensible that TCR get some sort of monetary support. The options are basically charge for the site, or get sponsors (who’d thrill us with their pop-up ads :rolleyes: ).

I’m not suggesting that everything become a paid for site; there should still be a forum or two that is free (similar to what Jenner says).

It’s the only solution I can think of for the…super…slow…to…nonfunctional…server…that…loses…posts…befor

7

I’d like to echo earlier posts that your ideas are nothing new. I too support making this site payable, even though that means I’d probably have to leave forever. Heh. Anyway, before it comes up, another idea which was shot down was charitable donations, so that people who want to help and pay out, like you, can. Apparently there are enough legal issues involved to make this idea unfeasible, though. If you find you just have to give money, you should considering purchasing some merchandise from the Straight Dope website. They make great gifts!

8

This issue is mentioned in the FAQ. The powers that be at the Chicago Reader probably don’t read the SDMB. I would suggest contacting them directly.

9

Arnold, I forgive you for not becoming actively involved in any new discussions on this matter.

:smiley:

10

Okay, same question, slight variation:

Would contacting the powers that be really have much, if any, effect? Or is it akin to trying to fill a pool with an eyedropper?

11

I don’t know that anyone from the SDMB has ever tried contacting them. You could be the first, and report back with your experience. Try organizing a letter-writing or e-mail campaign!

12

By anyone from the SDMB, of course, I mean any of the posters excepting people like jdavis or Ed Zotti who presumably speak to the Chicago Reader people once in a while.

13

I haven’t read more than a few of the arguments. In fact, the very idea that there are 5 page threads discussing the issue is evidence that the perspectives have argued themselves to a standstill.

I’ll go for simple: A forum that, over a period of hours, doesn’t accept requests for viewing and for posting is close to being non-functional.

Can somebody find a contact at the Chicago Reader so we can talk over options for upgrading the server? I’m in for $50.

14

Omitting the big guy’s name is bad karma Arnold.

15

We have something in the works. The tech guys are working on it now. Uncertain when we’ll roll it out - it depends on what else goes wrong that the tech guys get distracted by. We think - hope, anyway - it’ll address all concerns eloquently expressed in these pages by SDMB users. Ruffian is right on all counts - service on the SDMB is embarrassingly bad at times but without some cash coming in on a reasonably dependable basis it’s impossible to justify the investment needed to make things better. As soon as the tech guys send word that they’re close I’ll explain the whole plan in detail.

16

what if there was some sort of voluntary subscription? As in, those who wish they could just donate money could “subcribe” and get, say, an extra smiley (or some other small feature). those who couldn’t afford to subscribe could keep using the board as usual.
this would bring in money for equipment upgrades or whatever, it wouldn’t involve donations, and everyone would be able to enjoy the SDMB.

this idea strikes me as oddly familiar, so maybe i’m just remembering reading it from a past thread. but either way, would this work?

17

well I feel like an idiot.
i basically reposted the OP and claimed it as my own idea. no wonder it sounded familiar. :o