Do you want to see brands and/or small retailers on the forum?

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#1

There’s a longer post about this on the blog:

http://toolguyd.com/do-you-want-to-talk-to-tool-brands-in-the-toolguyd-discussion-forum/

Basically, do you want to see brands or small independent retailers represented on the forum? One brand requested access to the forum, and I casually chatted with another about whether they would be interested.

This is all after one or two ToolGuyd commenters or forum members also suggested the idea.

#2

I think as long as its explicit who they are it could be good, and as long as it doesn’t begin to cause anyone to have to censor themselves too much.

I would think something like an AMA style thread could be cool.

#3

My reply on the blog:

Cr8ondt says
April 22, 2016 at 8:00 am

I like the overall idea and understand your reservations. Spitballing here…… Maybe a ToS specifically designed for “official” tool reps that expressly states a no social media clause? Add additional moderator privileges (with specific moderator guidelines)? Again just spitballing. I really do like the idea of interacting with reps and product managers.

#4

I think interaction with manufacturers and vendors would be great for everyone as long as people play by the rules. I can see good dialog back and forth leading to new tools and improvements to existing tools on the manufacturer side and the possibility of a vendor or two expanding their product lines to meet needs of their customers. I agree - no social media since the last thing I want to see here is a regurgitation of my Facebook feed.

#5

Yes, if it was contained to strict threads, don’t want to see retailers spamming every post, also no links or distractions like Facebook, Twitter and the like.

#6

Representing yes, but not dictating :slight_smile:

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#7

it’s a tricky line to run so I see your concern.

I mean right now your site is fairly well respected as being unbiased and not compromising to the testing. Such that most of us solidly know there isn’t a maker selling a product review.

Even the few times you had a vendor give you equipment to review as always you state it upfront and in a informational manner.

So having a spot for vendor reps does potentially color that. I think it if was over here in discussion only - they were not allowed to buy into the system as a “supporter” it might be OK and stay good. But you run the risk of that branching out - especially as you start to have “store sales” etc.

I’m cautiously for it. But only on the discussion side and like above - no social media.

#8

I would love to see manufacturer reps post here!
What’s new, whats in the pipeline, what improvements we would like to see, what new tools we think we need etc

#9

I would say that it depends on the reps themselves. Bosch NA reps are completely out of touch and talking with them is generally a waste of time. Most of the Milwaukee reps I’ve talked to have been excellent.

I’m on other forums where it has taken time to recognize who is a shill and who is a company rep so I agree with some that these users must be clearly marked as company reps.