Company Representatives - Posts by Company Representatives

[Marc]

I received an email today and decided it would be good to try to clarify some aspects of the TOS here with respect to representatives of companies posting in threads.

The main thing is if you want to 'plug' your product, do so in a way in which you help in replying with information in a post within a thread. NOTE: Your company web site URL belongs in your profile, not in posts, as does your email address / contact information.

Over the years, many people from companies wanting to increase their exposure have registered and posted in threads (or started a thread) only to say something like "If you use our product your problem will be solved" (and usually they try to put a link to their company web site within the post). They add no information to help the poster or the discussion in general. I can understand this, but the problem is the forum focus is to answer peoples questions. The forum is not intended to be a place where companies can come and freely advocate their product. However, the Elsmar Cove forum IS a place where people who use a product or service can ask about, or comment on (positive or negative), a product or service.

NOTE: If someone asks a question about a product or service and you are a company representative and can help out, such as with how something functions or how to do something with your product or service, by all means jump in and help out. That is considered helpful information.

Now, I know this may seem a bit 'weird' and restrictive, but to us the important part is that helpful information be 'contributed' in posts in threads.

> I read your terms and conditions and they are very clear that if I register
> and make any reference to our product I must state clearly that I am
> associated with the offering while of course supporting your content
> directives.

Correct.

> I understand also I can elaborate on our offerings in your profile area.

Correct.

Exceptions:

There are a number of LONG TIME 'regulars' here that get some leeway in what they post, and some are given free space in the forum sidebar with a link to their web site. These are people who have been visiting for a long time and have helped out a lot. Randy is an example of someone who hasn't 'pushed' his employer very much at all. Randy works for BSi and I owe him a couple. Sidney works for DNV. Not only does Sidney help out by helping others in posts in threads, DNV is a financial supporter. Dave Scott, Atul, Howard and DB have been around for quite a while and have helped thousands of people.

My point is, now and again it may look as if someone, or some company, is getting 'special' privileges. It may be the case, but it's based upon a long term relationship with the site.