February 14, 2008

  • What's in a Name?

    The goal of our Xanga True program is simple: we wanted to thank our most active members for using Xanga so much.  We chose the word True because it means, "firm in allegiance; loyal; faithful; steadfast".

    We got some feedback on the TRUE name, and I wanted to share it with you guys.  This comment pretty much sums it up:  I was one of the ones who knocked you guys a little... not because the badge exists, but because I don't agree with calling it "TRUE," as that gives the impression that others are UNTRUE.  Or as another Xangans put it, I'm one of the NONTRUEs. And I feel just like I did when I was a sophomore in high school, and the girls I ate lunch with asked me not to sit with them anymore.

    We definitely don't want the community to feel divided!  We just wanted to recognize our most active users for contributing so much to the site.  In retrospect, recognizing some members means not recognizing others... I should've anticipated that one.

    Well nothing is set in stone, and we'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.  We got a lot of interesting suggestions for possible name changes, which I've grouped into categories.  Rather than paraphrase them, I figured we'd use direct quotes so you can hear the ideas directly from your fellow Xangans.

    1) Choose a name that is less of a label

    a) Choose a silly name: "I'm thinking that the name should be something that's more positive-goofy than positive-sincere-potentially-divisive. Why not something like "Xanga Nut" or "Xanga Addict"?"

    b) Choose something that doesn't have a name: "I personally favour using an image instead of a word - a Xanga rainbow or something."

    c) Choose a more literal name: "I think that "ACTIVE" or "OUTGOING" might be better, more appropriate tags since they're given based on the amount of comments given, not the truth or community-based opinions that a "TRUE" tag may imply."

    2) Create more badges, but make them sound more objective:

    "[Perhaps] a ranking system like they do on message boards: Newbie, Seasoned Member, Addict...etc. You can set up ALL sites to have tags based on the number of posts we've made over time. ... Figure the tags change every so many posts; make it after 50 posts to go from Newbie to Nut; another 100 posts to go to Pro; another 200 posts to go to Addict; and maybe after 750 posts they become Seniors. "

    3) Stick with the word True

    "I like the idea of the TRUE program and I like the name. I think its nice to recognize people in that way. I think its smart to have the opt in and opt out part too though."

    So what do you guys think?  Do you like the name TRUE... or should we try some of the other names/suggestions mentioned?  Or do you have any other ideas for names?  Let us know what you think!

    Thanks!
    John

    ps We're moving forward on the other tweaks we mentioned earlier - adding optouts, expanding the program, and adding a nomination process...

Comments (346)

  • I would HATE to be you trying to please everyone!!
    I wish people would understand that you do the best you can and encourage you more for the great community that you offer us than complain about things that do not suit them.

  • I like the #2 idea - although I'm not so sure about being called a "senior"! haha

    I also like the #1a idea...something that's a tad bit silly...

    TRUE is nice - but I think it could be better!

    Great job!

    Kimbers

  • if you don't just end up scrapping the program entirely, then stick with TRUE. i don't see anything wrong with it. it's just a dang word.

  • Maybe avoid the whole thing by not doing the "true" program.  I think it just complicates things.  It's a nice gesture, but I think when it starts to have a ranking system - that defeats the purpose of writing.  I would encourage writing for the sake of writing the pure joy of it.  Don't be like the other online programs like myspace or facebook with the flashy gimmicks.  What I like about Xanga is the simplicity.  Some of the new features are nice, but can ya say "stimulation overload." 

  • I vote for #2.  It's objective, it doesn't label motives or intentions (am I really "true" to Xanga?  Am I "false" if I don't have a "true" badge?), it's just recognition based on activity numbers.

    I know you had some concerns about the complexity of an implementation like this, but I think you could make it a lot easier by setting up the system, making the badges available, and letting users grab them when they meet the criteria.  The users would need to know when they meet the criteria, obviously, so a total post count, and/or total comment count, would need to be added maybe to the private pages. 

    But once a member sees they have made, say, 100 posts, they can go grab the 100-post badge.  If they don't want a badge, or forget, it's there for them if they want it later.  Less hassle for you guys to track it, and you don't have to auto-apply anything.

  • Said from the perspective of  former writer in the Xanga Community, contemplating on writing once again.  

  • I like diehard. I'm sorry that it has made some people feel bad... I began to wonder when all of the look at me posts popped up. Ah well... life goes on.

    Die hard would signify someone who was WAY into xanga but it has no implication that its bad if someone else isn't... I don't think... of course someone out there will always come up with something to bitch about...

  • @SeoulSpirit8 - agreed, for the most part. the gesture was nice, yeah.

  • I like all three options which have been posted

    Good luck in what ever you choose,   I will be sticking with Xanga for life

  • i like num 2

  • Yeah, I agree with #2 as well. Some of my friends are "true" members and they don't blog as much as I do, I know that for a fact. I am constantly blogging and commenting, sometime 2 and three times a day. I so feel a little left out. I WANT TO BE TRUE!!! Haha. Thanks for this though, I feel like this could everyone feel special in a xanga kind of way.

  • @angi1972 - Oy you said bitch!!

  • #3 that sound alright.

  • @seedsower - I know... I am eating soap now. ;-b

  • "True" is fine with me....however sense so many people feel you are saying they are lesstrue than others by not giving them that badge maybe changing the name would be a good idea to something else...xanga addict works for me..if your a true xangian..than by all means you are an addict!

    You subbed me...but I never got a badge *looks at you with Bambi eyes*...where's my badge

  • I like True, even if I hadn't received it, it would be something I aspire to. I am sorry some people got their feeling hurt.

    I think whatever you do, some people aren't going to like it. But, if it is something that is causing that much division, scrap it. I'd be disappointed to see my little true badge go away, but, I'm here for the community and one of the reasons I like xanga so much is, in my past experience there hasn't been any drama or major flame wars that I've experienced else where.

  • @seedsower - We value feedback!  It's hard sometimes when it gets personal, but I'd rather be hurt by feedback than not get any at all...

    @porcupinesol -
    I don't think we'll scrap TRUE?  It's been incredibly popular with people we invited into the program. I
    just want to make sure we listen to our other users too and consider alternative
    names/approaches.

    @SeoulSpirit8 -
    We're adding an optout today, so you can turn off your true icon.  Once
    we get the optin setup, you won't get a true icon until you've accepted
    the invite to join the true program!

    @snoochface -
    I didn't say it above, but #2 is a huge amount of work.  But I wanted
    to put it up there, since it was a suggestion and I didn't want to
    ignore it.

    @jtreb_in_tx - You were probably not included b/c you have Friends Lock on.  Friends Locked sites will be added today to the TRUE program today...

  • I really like the "diehard" suggestion above.  A badge with no word(s); the meaning might get lost.  Honestly, if ya'll want to stick with "true," I am fine with that too.  You can't please everyone.

  • Personally, I think the idea of everyone having a badge but getting it "upgraded" is a great idea. You get stages depending on amount of time here/ amount of posts/ amount of comments you've made. That sort of thing.

    Otherwise, I think "addict" as a title would be cute. I also think it would be beneficial to have a page that outlines in very clear terms why someone would get that badge. What qualifications a person would have. That way, it's not only something you get, but something you feel like you can work towards if you really want it.

  • TRUE is just fine.  Some people are just thinking too much about it.

  • I'd like to express how I feel about changes in general at Xanga (of which so many people are complaining). 

    Change occurs everywhere ... Restaurants change their menus.  Stores change their layout.  Cities grow.  Things happen. 

    One unique thing about Xanga, that I wish more of those complaining would realize, is that the Xanga team is so willing to accommodate its members.  Sure, you have made changes to the layout and you've added new features (most of which I don't use), but XANGA GIVES US THE OPTION TO OPT OUT.  You don't like the new editor?  Then, Xanga lets us use the old one.  You don't like the new private homepage?  Then, you have the option of using the "classic" version.  You don't like the subs page?  Then, you can go with the old version.  You don't like the TRUE badge?  Then, you have the option to remove it.

    Stores and restaurants and cities that have changed?  I can't opt to use the old layout when I enter the store.  I can't ask for something that used to be on a menu, but isn't anymore.  I can't pretend that growth in the city doesn't exist when it does.

    Maybe I'm not explaining myself well or perhaps folks just don't want to see how accommodating you all really are, but you are welcome to use this testimonial, my opinion, to spread the word about how Xangans don't have to put up with the changes if they don't want to ... Just take a few minutes to make sure that your settings (you being Xangans) are set to the way that you are comfortable with them. 

    There's my two cents and I'll step off my soapbox now.

  • @MM2_2007  @PunkDiva - I just want to clarify: most of the feedback we've gotten on the true program has been really positive.  We're highlighting the negative feedback we got above, to be responsive to the other perspective.

    @silkenbutterfly - I wonder if using ADDICT wouldn't upset some recovering substance abuse users?  That's why we stayed away from any potentially controversial terms.  We had thought true was free of those issues, but it's attracted some controversy too.  So far, it's the best option we've come across - but that's why we're throwing it out to the Xanga community, so we can brainstorm together and find other potential possibilities!

  • Leave it or change it...  they all sound like good ideas to me!

  • @john - I know you value feedback , I like to read it too.
    I just wish that some folks would be as eager to encourage and to discourage.
    You do well to answer complaints and make tweaks accordingly.

  • @john - Well, regardless of the drama, thanks to the whole xanga team. For my money, this is one of the best online communities.

  • the name has a nice ring to it i vote 3... not that i have any say in the matter, obviously...

  • @frejaluna - Well spoken!!

  • @john - Don't get me wrong, I didn't mean it like that.  It doesn't matter one way or another just giving a perspective.  I'm not attached in either way. 

  • happy valentine's day, john.

  • I sincerely hope you leave the name as it is.  I think it fits.  I am going to wax sentimental here, but...xanga is my online home.  To me, xanga is about connection, friendship and community.  Those relationships are only built through time...taking the time to read and to comment and to get to know one another.  When I first saw the TRUE badge it implied...a long time xanga user.  True blue.  A true friend.  "Firm in allegiance; loyal; faithful; steadfast". I like that!!!   I don't think xanga addict captures it....that just implies that some of us spend way too much time online.      No.  I don't like any of the suggestions more than I like TRUE. 

    Maybe you could provide different TRUE badges?  And people could choose their preference in account settings or something?  Like Sitemeter gives you options for which little sitemeter doodad you want to show (or not show) on your site? 

    Thanks so much for allowing us to weigh in on this.  That's one of the things I love about this place. 

  • If you give everyone a True label who thinks they should have one, then its just a couple of pretty pixels, with no worth at all.  If you give everyone different badges then its like primary school where everyone has to have an award so all the kiddies can feel good about themselves and all the adults know that there is no intrinsic value to them.

    However, one of the things I love about Xanga is that we are all equal, we have the same tools (brilliant ones) and can be serious writers or kidz wh0 Wr1tE 4 fUn, to give badges based on merit would be terrible, it would be like the real world where there is a pecking order and those with academic smarts sit about those who sweep the floors. 

    A Xanga Addiction badge is no bad thing, but what would be the criteria?  There are many sorts of addicts - those that post a lot, those that comment a lot and those that don't do either but read a lot; all are addicts. 

    I liked the idea of the True award but a lot of people are upset and I think it could be dropped as an idea that didn't really work or else have loads of badges people could self-select and pay for with credits.

    Whatever - I love the recent improvements: the minis are fun and the private home page is awesome.  I wish I could find the setting for turning on pics on subs, I turned it off, now I can't find out how to put it on.

  • TRUE 

  • @Book_of_Ruth - Yah that's exactly how I was thinking of TRUE.  Glad to hear the intended meaning got across!  Although I think that most people who were invited into the true program love the name.

    I'm intrigued with the idea of having a few badge options to choose between.  So rather than show the TRUE badge, maybe you could display a rainbow with five colors or something - yah exactly like Sitemeter's display options.  Interesting...

    @DJ_Stunna - You definitely have a say in all this!  That's exactly why we're posting about it

  • I see it as only two alternatives that are acceptable to me. Scrap the thing completely and remove all the True tags or just leave it alone. People whine and cry at everything and for no reasons. It is impossible to please everyone and I think that even by placating the whiners you create a whole new group of people that will beat you up for your decisions regardless of how well meaning.

    You are good people and you are doing a good job.

  • I like the true title, although a graduated system would be cool, although a bit more tedious.

  • @SavonDuJour - We're not going to give out true icons like candy.  I understand your point about the importance of criteria.

    Regarding the subs pictures, look to the upper right of the subs page and there should be a "show images" link there:

    http://www.xanga.com/private/SubsMain.aspx

    Hope that helps!

    John

  • I love the "True" badge.

    But I also understand the possible negative connotation from not being "True."

    I'm sure you guys will make a good decision! :)

  • @IagosEnvy - Go, Tim!!  I agree completely.

  • @Book_of_Ruth - 

    I am not that articulate so thanks for saying what I think are my feelings also and some excellent ideas that I agree with too.

    John- This is my choice of a settlement for the True controversy.

  • i thought that the symbol suggestion was a really good one.
    i don't like "xanga addict" or "xanga nut".

  • what's hard about this process is that there are too many opinions.
    once something is decided, then just let us opt in or out.

  • @frejaluna -

    I like what Book of Ruth has said above. But I think that there will still be people that will complain and feel slighted somehow. So maybe there is no "clean solution"

  • I like #2 and also keeping "true". I dunno. trying to please everyone must be so hard!! I feel for you all!

    i see how some people can think that the "true" badge can make people feel bad, but then again- this isn't high school. get over it! lol.

    I think i still really like the true badge, then maybe adding the other's like "newbie, pro, senior etc" something cute like that.

    the only thing with #2 idea is that people like me who've been on xanga for YEARS but have just changed screen names. they'll have to start all over again to get the new tags. just a thought.

    the general idea of all this though is great! keep up the good work!

  • @john -   Happy Valentine's day to you too haha.

  • I agree with frejaluna.  I think you guys have bent over backwards to accommodate people.  For that you get huge props!!!

  • hmmm i don't like the Newbie, etc idea because that's more like a forum thing and it makes sense in that environment but in xanga it's kind of hard to quanitfy

    the rainbow thing sounds cool (whether it'd be a xanga rainbow or something else)

    but then again, i think the TRUE name rocks...

  • I do not have a "True" badge, so that might cloud my opinion. If you want to have a badge then "Active" might be more descriptive. I have seen some of the "True" Xangans that go to many sights and give comments like "Awesome!!" at every site. These are people that operate more like spam than making a contribution. Hi activity levels does not always mean high quality. Then you get those people like baldmike2004 who really read the entry and then give a thoughtful reply...and I think that type of person needs to be given recognition. I always have an admiration for people like Leonidas who always generates a lot of comments. They deserve a badge of "Popular". I think the overall idea of giving some form of recognition is positive because it shows which people are truly making Xanga interesting with either their comments or their entries.

    I think however that it is the wrong approach to dish out a certain number of badges. Set standards if it is active and popular Xangans then state that on average you need to write an entry per day, receive 20 comments per day and give 10 comments per day. This will drive activity but not by default quality. You have your featured Xangan's who gets recognition for their content. The star system is also there for Xangan's to vote for popularity. So there is already many mechanism in place to give recognition to "Super Xangans". The point is if you want to stimulate behaviour through your recognition then you must set the criteria you use so that it does not seem biased by the Xanga team.  I also think that the badge should remain only for as long as the criteria is achieved. Maybe you should give these Xangan's a badge that like "Zippy" which does not come with a huge baggage of interpretation.

    Myself, I consider myself a true Xangan with or without the badge. I like the Xanga experience. I log on, on a daily basis and publish an entry almost on a daily basis. I do not have the time to comment as much as I would like to and I also do not write entries that will easily end up in the popularity lane. Xanga is my internet home irrespective the badge because I like the user interface you have created so far. I tried out most of the competitive sites and Xanga is my preferred choice.

    I hoe you will keep sort out a way to acknowledge the super hero's of Xanga. Many of the ones that got "True" badges deserve the badge. Keep up the good work and Xanga will thrive!!

  • when I saw it come out I understood it with the definition of the word True = loyal, etc.
    Not as in the opposite meaning fake or poser which 'authentic' would be
    but there are those that look to others for approval and to define who they are who could take offense with that

    Is it ironic that these discussions take place on Valentine's Day? A day that carries happiness and heartbreak from childhood at receiving the best valentines from classmates or a complete lack of those little cards defining social status, acceptability, and popularity. 
    Why did they even make those little cards with skunks and hippos? almost forcing kids to rate their friends as puppies and teddy bears and use the remaining skunks, hippos, etc for the kids they don't like as well. So, now as I wrote that I wonder if using a symbol rather than a word like true wouldn't end up being the same problem. I would think with option 1 you would need to be careful not to use language like 'nut' or 'addict' since those are offensive to some people.
    yeah... use the word 'popular' instead - ha!! - see what the reaction to that would be - this is quite the social experiment you've stumbled into, isn't it?

    - may I please apply for a badge that says "sarcasm rules!"

  • HOW CAN I BLOCK ( DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA)  FROM ASSESSING MY SITE ?

  • I just thought of something which nobody has yet touched on.  I know you cannot please everybody.  But as for me, it sounded great!!  Well, it is more like the #2 option... but with different words.  I'd appreciate the option of "grabbing" for it and hiding the badge.  I'm thinking along the line of Xanga being a FAMILY.  Each level need twice the amount previous level requires or something like that.

    Babe.  Tot.  Kid.  Teen.  Senior.  Master.

    Otherwise, I'd focus on how I could keep Xangaians happy with how arrange-able their own sites is, neverminding badges.

  • I like the idea of changing the name of TRUE to something  a little more light hearted or even to an image instead of a name (the badge formally known as TRUE )

    However, I think idea number 2 is on to something. I was super bummed about not being TRUE and not even understanding how people got the badge in the first place. It definitely felt like high school all over again. If there are different levels of activity I think it would inspire people to become more active and join the upper ranks. We would know who to ask for help with xanga stuff and who's blogs to go to and meet other people.

  • I don't really care too much either way.  I am a very active member, have used Xanga for many years now.  But I don't feel like I am being left out if I don't get a badge.  If I do, cool.  If not, whatever.  No loss.

    So thats how I feel.

    <3Bria

  • quote from snoochface:

    " I think you could make it a lot easier by setting up the
    system, making the badges available, and letting users grab them when
    they meet the criteria.  The users would need to know when they meet
    the criteria, obviously, so a total post count, and/or total comment
    count, would need to be added maybe to the private pages. 

    But
    once a member sees they have made, say, 100 posts, they can go grab the
    100-post badge.  If they don't want a badge, or forget, it's there for
    them if they want it later.  Less hassle for you guys to track it, and
    you don't have to auto-apply anything."

           I vote for this idea!

    I also agree with what frejaluna said about how nice it is that xanga is so accomodating for its users by letting us opt out, etc. so thanks!

  • Addicted would be a reality based assessment of my use of Xanga. smile. Judi

  • Really, this is you’re argument for a different name????
    “And I feel just like I did when I was a sophomore in high school, and the girls I ate lunch with asked me not to sit with them anymore.”
     
    Using the fact that you felt socially inept and ostracized in High school, is not a a good argument, that was almost everyone at one point or another, I have no idea why this is that big of a deal, there have always been beta projects and other things to get involved with, when Xanga has been trying new things, and I feel like that’s what they are doing trying something new. You want to be part of it ask I did about a couple of things and was told how. You want to get it ask , message someone, get involved, or do what everyone else does for the most part get over and past it.

  • I'm not big on ranking people by the number of posts they've made - then you end up with people posting a lot just to get a higher badge, and it means nothing to have it anymore.  I'm okay with the system as is, so I suppose I'd vote #3.  But more strongly than that, I vote against #2.

  • since it's already done, leave well enough alone?  i guess that'd be #3.

  • rainbows would be the ultimate insult. sheesh.  : )

  • That's a great way to recognize members of the community who constantly and consistantly contribute...  Stick with the True label- it doesn't sound as tacky as other things.

  • What about SOUL ...."xanga soul" - indicating being part of a community or as in ....kindred souls, also as in .....soul mates within Xanga. 

    BTW - what do you have to do to get the badge - all my friends have one and I AM very active within Xanga.

  • Just an observation, but I think it's kinda funny most of the "I think TRUE is fine" comes from bloggers who already have the badge and most of the push for one of the other two options are encouraged by those who don't have one....I'm just pointing out the trend I saw browsing these responses, not sure what it means. ;)

    Personally, I think the program is great.  Plus, I think it encourages people to keep up with their blogging....:)

  • @Eponine2 - Ironically enough, I don't blog at Xanga (with the exception of today), but I do comment regularly and I offer my opinions on changes at this site. 

  • @venice - I like your idea of Xanga soul....the rest of us can then be the Xanga body :)

  • I think Seed sower's first comment sums it up nicely.

    You guys picked me as a member  on one site but not the other. If you had not picked me on either site, I would like to think I would've been big enough to not feel resentful of it.

  • @nidan - Well said!!  I'd hate to see this nice way of recognizing people turn into a popularity contest because it's been misinterpreted. 

  • @frejaluna - Good point! 

    I'm not a fan of the TRUE thingie, but since I'm not tagged, it don't matter anyway.    And really, the staff of xanga are always looking for ways to make the site fresh, engaging, fun, and cleaner to use.  I appreciate that, along with the opt out options, more than I think I ever really said.

    So two props (and then some) to the Xanga Team - 7 and almost a half years later I'm still a fan, and that says a lot.

  • I only read a small number of the total comments you have here, but I've come to the conclusion that the already "TRUE" members don't care what happens. It's like, they've got their badge, they've, in a small way, proved they're better and like the name, and if someone else doesn't get one, they don't want them to complain. On the other side, there are the members with no badge who want one and don't like the name because it "puts them down."

    I realize this is a huge generalization, but it sounds like you're going to have to give everyone a badge to keep everyone happy which would completely defeat the purpose.

    Going with that, number two sounds like a good choice. I would make the numbers a bit higher because if you're a Xanga addict, or the like, higher numbers wouldn't be so hard to achieve. But it would probably also depend on the number of levels you had. With low numbers and a "Xanga Addict," they'd get to "Senior" and then what?

    I know for true "Xanga Addicts" it wouldn't matter, at least it shouldn't, but like the meaning of "TRUE," "Senior" should be about, "Yeah, I'm dedicated. This is what I like to do."

    In other words, getting to senior shouldn't be about who's better, it should be about being rewarded for what you enjoy.

    The only problem I see, that I just thought of, is how can you monitor what's being posted? Should there be a word limit so members can't just write a sentence per post so they can achieve the next level? And what would happen if you deleted posts? Would you be demoted? Would private/protected posts count?

    Man, I don't even know....

    I guess right now, number two still seems like it'd be best. *shrug* but that's coming from a "non-true" member.

  • I'm a TrueBlue Xanga fan ....... they're the best!

  • i like option two, because then everybody has a "rank" and then it gives people something to work towards. And if you do it by posts, then you can see how many more you need to gain the next one.

    the only problem with that would be if people start posting one worded posts just to get as many posts as possible.

    the rainbow idea isn't bad either.

  • #2 would be better, in my opinion.

  • Did you have any idea that this would happen?

    Would people maybe be more understanding if they understood how you picked TRUE members?  Of course, I don't think I want anyone to know how much time I spend on Xanga!

    I'm a fan of two but I understand it could get awfully complicated.

    Good luck!

  • seriously?  i think people are whiners.  they'll nit-pick and always figure out ways to punch holes into other people's ideas.  you seriously can't please everyone!  but i do respect what you're trying to do -- which is make sure everyone is appeased.  at the same time, though, you just have to keep in the back of your mind that trying to please everyone will be hard.  and i see that happening already with all the tweaks you're trying to come up with. . . .

    it's a hard line to draw.  best of luck to you!!

    p.s.  i like "true"!!

  • I like the second option the best. 

    After thinking it over, I don't like the the title of "True" as much as first thought.  While I don't doubt the "True" title is deserved by those who have already earned a True badge, I don't like the title of "False" it alludes to the rest of us. 

    Thanks for all your work to keep us satisfied!  It does not go unnoticed. 

  • Where's the 'indifferent' mini?  Seriously, I don't care, if you scrap the whole thing, and take away my badge.  I mean it's cool and everything, but if it's gonna cause such an uproar, I don't think it's worth all the trouble.

    Then again, I'm partial to the tiered badges, much like the seniority in message boards.  Of course, it's not accounting for quality so much as quantity.  I don't know, if you can program an algorithm to attach the badges when the robots sense "awesome", and skip the blog when the robots sense "suck".  

  • Stick with the word True

  • lol, this is beginning to look like the political campaign news coverage. ;)

    hey john, i know you're busy and all, but do you have a link i could get to that explains the xanga clothing and items for sale?  just whenever. i just noticed someone saying something somewhere on a site, but didn't give specifics.

    thanks.

  • opt-out options always...
    and?
    knowledge beforehand.
    but you know all this.

    thanks again, kid.

  • @Be_The_Rain - Here you go:

    http://www.printfection.com/xanga

  • I don't like number 2. At all.

    People could post 12 times a year and still be labeled a Xnaga Nut... totally false!

    Number one is a bit better... but I don't understand why we have to change it when almost EVERYONE will have one eventually... most people really don't care that I've seen, and to change it for the FEW who do is silly.

    If you were to change it, I think an image would be fine.

  • I want to start by thank you for honoring me with the TRUE badge. But the thing is I don’t really feel I deserve it. I chose Xanga because it is a blog and not a meat market. I can put down and receive thoughts, feelings, ideas and such without others thinking I’m after something else. I don’t get many visitors to my blog and I don’t have that many subscriptions or subscribe to many of the other blogs on Xanga I think the best way to honor those that use Xanga is by making it just a image without any name. I also think that by using any form of labels (names) you’re never going to please everybody.

    Nobody Special _:^)

  • Oiy!  You guys are damned if you do and damned if you don't. 

    Frankly, I like the TRUE name... or even a silly name.  Whatever.  I hope I wouldn't have gotten all bent if I hadn't gotten the badge.  I think it's interesting to see who has gotten them.  Many of the people I sub or sub me have them.  So it seems like the most active users kind of stick together in a way.

    I love being a xanga member.  One of these days when I have the cash I'm going to go and be a lifer.    I love the people I've met here, I love being able to write my thoughts, my day, or whatever.  I love being able to share what I want to share with whom I want to share it. 

    Thanks Xanga Team!

  • Do the ranking system. It covers every user in the sense that no one is left out. Have something like "newbs" or "amateurs" for beginners, "pros" for intermediates, and "vets" or "veterans" for... well, the vets. No one can complain with this system. Everyone gets a badge and you have the choice to opt in and out. Maybe you could even have a few different badges for each rank.

    If you're planning on just changing the word "True", I think "Vets" or "Veteran" would be the best choice. It gets the message across and doesn't really exclude anyone for the wrong reasons. I'm personally a fan of the ranking system though.

  • Recognizing anybody means not recognizing others. Not everyone does "A" work, and not everyone should get A's. Trying to appease folks who don't meet whatever requirements you decide make someone a member of the "True" program will only drive you crazy.

    I really, really think creating a graphic-only logo is a not a good idea.

  • I really like suggestion 2. It's more objective and meaningful - gives you a goal.

  • i can see how the term used and everything can cause division... i do feel like i'm the only one sitting at the weirdo lunch table if you know what i mean... but i'm trying not to take it personally. i see it as a challenge. i aspire to be a TRUE member... i've already begun my campaign!

    i'm sticking with this and xanga no matter what you guys decide.. maybe the whole idea of a badge system works but make it more varied than just "true" ... you could have options.. bring more fun to it like the minis! if i could choose to have a rainbow or another icon, the standard true badge, or i don' t know.. one that says "original" or something like that.. i would love it.

    sorry for the strange ideas, just trying to help :)

  • I am ok with the word true, but I also like "xanga addict"

  • I like number 2.  I was personally pretty bummed out when I found myself in the "untrue" category.  I mean, I spend every free moment on here.  If you stick with what you've got, maybe you could explain the "TRUE" program a little better.  I didn't make it even though I blog and comment everyday.  How did I fall short? 

  • number 2! 

  • @frejaluna -

    I couldn't have said that better myself. I totally agree with you. Changes do happen. And the folks at Xanga are VERY accommodating. I think that do a fantastic job!

  • I like "Xanga Addict" or "Active" or "Outgoing" (which I suggested the other day).  Thanks for listening and being willing to change the "true" tag to something less polarizing.

  • I like the word True. My first choice is to leave it the way it is. I think a symbol would not have a clear meaning, especially to new people. I don't like using the word addict. Using a different name is my second choice. Xangaphile?  I don't really like the number 2 option with different levels.... then Xanga becomes too much like other sites. Or what about making this much simpler. My third choice: You get a badge for life, a different badge for premium, and a badge if you make more than a certain amount of posts/comments.

    I like the idea of recognizing those of us that spend way too much time doing this. I was late to work this morning because i was blogging! 

  • I was also a person who mentioned early on that I wasn't sure about the name "true". But I don't really have a problem with keeping the program as is.

    I do like #2 though. But I don't think it should be based on number of posts. Rather post frequency should be the criteria. You shouldn't lose a tag if your post frequency drops, but to get the tag you should have to maintain a certain rate of posts for a certain period of time. If it is not based on frequency but on number then the numbers should be WAAY higher than the 50, 100,200, 750 you suggest.

    Also I think there could be a different scale and different labels for how frequently you post versus how frequently you comment on other people's blogs. Similarly other ways of interacting might earn other tags, like sharing minis, writing pulses, using xanga tv,  writing reviews, etc. But if you're going to have a lot of tags, they should probably be small icons, not words.

    If you were to do this, then you could actually keep the TRUE tag as well as a kind of conglomerate recognizing multiple commitments and contributions to xanga. TRUE xangans are those who frequently make use of numerous xanga features. ie those who comment and blog and answer featured questions and write pulses and share minis, etc. etc.  I think the harder it is to get TRUE and the more visible the steps along the way are to get there the less offended people will be for not being chosen as TRUE (or whatever you call it).

    Such a system would give people more things to work toward and would be a way to encourage people to use other xanga features they might not even know about. People love feeling like they are progressing toward a goal. One issue with TRUE as it stands is that once you are chosen as TRUE, you don't have anything to look forward to or work toward. It's sort of static. In that sense the TRUE program is almost more for the people who weren't chosen than it is for those who were.

    Anyway, personally I'd use the term ELITE but that's just because I like the word. Plus it's 5 letters so you could color it with the 5 xanga colors. I'd love to be known as a XANGA ELITE.

  • @maayana - I agree.  I like the word "true", but I realize that some people will think that not having the TRUE badge will negate their Xanga experience ... suggesting that they are false or not loyal or whatever. 

    The other word choices that I have seen don't really encompass me, as a Xangan.  I am not an "addict".  I am not very "active".  I am certainly not "outgoing".  I might be a "nut", but please, don't remind me of that by putting that label next to my name.

    That said, I am a (true) Xanga fan and an opinionated one (very true).  I give a lot of (true) feedback on Xanga's changes, both supportive and ... not so much.  I've been around Xanga for a long time (almost six years, very true), so I could be called a senior, but that reality stares at me in the mirror everyday (all too true). 

    With every option, including the TRUE badge, someone will be offended.  For instance, I'm surprised that no one has pointed out that a rainbow badge might be associated with being a homosexual (not that there's anything wrong with that!). 

    ANYHOW, I'm okay with the TRUE badge, despite the fact that my support of it has actually irked some of my long-term Xanga friends.  Or, well, maybe they weren't TRUE friends after all. 

  • Well, John, and Xanga Team, I appreciate the thoughts and the good intentions... 

    but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.  Most xanga faithfuls are those who get premium, or life, or whatever.  this is not a judgment call, it is our choice to recognize you.  In any good community, this is the way to go.

    It's my honest opinion that you do away with this whole thing.  who needs to be affirmed that they are 'true' or an 'addict' or a 'nut' or a 'faithful'?  Judgment calls from above are satisfying (perhaps) but restrictive and somewhat grating. 

    If someone wants to be a 'diehard' xangan, let them be.  these things shouldn't be earned, should they?  why make elitist clubs when all they end up doing is cause dissention and resentment?

    my honest opinion: scrap it.  if people want to be diehards/fans/etc, let it be their choice, to be or to flaunt.

  • Well..............with a vast deversity of people that use Xanga I can see your in a tough situation. You will never please all.....looking at the large spread of ages your always gonna have someone think your only picking certain people.....The "True" notation is probably the best for now....other than that you can have a blog for names and pick the top 5 and then have everyone vote on it.....If "True" is not what the majority wants you can have the contest with the person who submitted the winning name getting a free Xanga premium for a year and if its someone who has premium send them a gift package.....

  • I think it should remain as 'true'. however, i think option no. 2 is not such a bad idea either, altho i'm not so keen on the word 'senior'.... 

  • You probably know by now that I prefer either scrapping the thing outright or going with #2, which was my suggestion to begin with. I was thinking about the issue of people posting too many times a day just to increase their ranking, and I thought that perhaps it could be based on number of days on which a post is made, rather than the number of posts. Then It wouldn't matter how many times a day you post but how many days you participate on the site. That would again give the advantage to us longtimers who've had many, many days to build up a ranking.

  • ON message boards they have a ranking system where after so many posts you get another image. For this example say you get stars. When you join the board you get one star. After 50 posts 2 stars, after 100 posts 3 stars and so on and so forth until you reach the maximum number of stars alotted for that board.

    How about something like that for xanga. When you join you get a true image with the blue box under it. When you have say.. for example 50 posts you'll get the next color (orange)  and after 100 posts ( or whatever I'm just using example numbers) you'll get the next color (red)  and then more posts until you get the yellow and more until you get the green.. and then when you've hit the maximum number of posts ( you're very active ) then you can change the color of the box... to something like Gold.
    (I included images to illustrate what I mean CLICK HERE)

    That would be fun  ( I think ) it would be something to work towards. I'm thinking that perhaps if you work your way up this way it will not bother less active members so much because they know that eventually they will get there too.. it's just those of us who are addicts.. or errrm.. highly active will get there faster. Everyone wins.

    Just a thought! Sorry if it was already mentioned I must admit I was lazy on reading comments today!

  • I think that the cat is out of the bag on this one. Because TRUE status has been given, by and large, to people who are active Xanga users, there will be an outcry if the program is scrapped. Better to modify the current program slightly, with opt-in/opt-out, and possibly a symbol designation, and let the furor die down. It will.

    Be wary of any program that creates distinctions between users. Be aware that besides being users, we are your customers. If we do not pay you for a premium site, we are providing a platform for advertisers. And - it is a mistake to make distinctions among customers. In any business. At least, it is a mistake to make such distinctions in public. TRUE is a very public statement.

    I love Xanga. I will probably buy a life membership one of these days. This place has enriched my life, made me think, jabbed me into becoming more creative, found me some good friends. Whether I am designated TRUE or not, that will not change.

  • Okay, okay, I had commented before but after thinking about it, maybe True is too divisive of a term. I like the idea of the ranking system because I think that it would have the potential to get even more people involved in being active Xangans if there was the potential to move up to different ranks.

  • I think whatever name you choose, some of your users will feel left out.  True sounds ok.  An image might be more inclusive.  Team Xanga - someone will undoubtedly feel left out of the team.  I say just pick one and don't worry about it.

    By the way, I do appreciate you for trying to be as inclusive as possible and listening .. er... reading all the feedback. 

  • well...

  • I'll stay with Xanga with or without the True badge

    I did the survey thinger for an extra 2,000 credits that was on my subs page, but havn't gotten anything yet . Is this just a delay of some sort?

  • i like what you wrote after 2). that suggestion is the best.

    p.s. my old username is mommato2kids

  • I think a ranking system would be excellent! That way you keep the True people and it'll help Newbies perhaps want to achieve the goal of becoming True... I think it's genius :]

  • TRUE is fine, thanks.
    I do not want NUT or ADDICT next to my name.

    It might be hard to format, but what about a scaled Xanga color bar beneath the username?  If you have to change, that sounds reasonable.  I like TRUE though.
    Also, thanks for making the TRUE program.  It was a good idea.

  • I like the name "True"

    I think it's perfect. I don't get why others get mad if they don't get a "True" badge. I think it's perfectly safe to say that those who didn't get this badge means they are not active enough (a.k.a. not blogging enough/only goes online to check messages/has not been active for a period of several months to a year or years)

    The purpose of "True" program is to THANK or recognize the users who use xanga all the time.

  • I like TRUE.  Don't change it.  Even if I don't get one.

  • i'm for the wordless image.

  • I thought of something else.  The difference between Mozilla Fox and Internet Explorer.  In many ways I like Fox better.  Why?  It is so much simpler and if you want more feature, you select exactly what you want to download.  Why not base Xanga on structure of Mozilla Fox?  At least similar.  ***  I know you are trying to make it fun and interesting... kudos to you!!  ***  short stubby pencil in Xanga theme with "teacher" above it for those who gave a lot in forum in helping others?  huh, hubby is calling for me, gonna go without finishing this.

  • I liked true because it's simple and catchy but apparently problematic.

    The picture idea might work.  Maybe call it "eXtreme" or something. Play on the whole X thing. 

    Ah, that's probably really stupid.  Too much work and too little coffee.

  • I really like the idea for #2.  This way everyone gets a badge of some sorts and it's a little bonus when you get a new rank or whatever. 

    I was curious how the True status was decided though.  I know you said it was for your most active members, but how do you decide what's active? Is it the amount of comments, is it blogging?  My boyfriend got the True badge and he had no idea why since he's only been a member for a year and a half.  Meanwhile, our group of friends and myself included have been here for four years and blog almost every day. 

  • Number 2, and I also would love to see some different badges, such as "Member since the beginning" or "Frequent commenter" or "designed a popular theme" as well as number of posts

  • Also-I don't like the idea of a ranking system.  I don't think the idea of TRUE was to say who were better xangans, and who weren't.  I think it's more of a "Thanks for being TRUE to Xanga type of deal.  I feel like a ranking system would take away from that.

  • i like the true badge. keep it. although i'm sad because i think i deserve to have one and i don't yet, even after you've friended me...

  • I think TRUE is totally fine. Let people know there is a nomination process where they can nominate themselves or someone else. A form where you fill out details, that way no one has to be left out. If someone misses out they can petition like you said.

    -Heidi

  • All of those ideas sound pretty good, but I think that numbers two and three sound like the best options. Having multiple badges makes things a bit less black and white, but at the same time...we need to eventually realize that not everyone will get an "award", and stop the middle school drama.

    As for the silly names, those are just...silly.

  • Oh wow...I agree with seesower...John...and would add...*take that vacation:) ha...really..I feel for you..all of you...:( goodness, this can't be easy..I am happy with 'true'..* oh.my..and  I see a 'survey' just popped up in my private page that says win 2,000 credits for filling out a survey...is this for real..or some thing else? You take care...dont' get too stressed** Lee

  • Keep it true.  

  • Quit ruining Xanga.

  • i'm fine with options #2 & #3. i'm actually more than fine with #3, but if i really had to choose another option, #2 sounds good enough. :)  

  • Option #2 seems to make the most sense and will give everyone a chance to get a badge.  Though,  I think you should still be able to nominate someone. Maybe the ones that get nominated would have a different badge or different color from the normal ones you can earn from posting.

  • I'm with #1. Make it an invitation to become a "Xanga Nut/Addict".

    Thanks for listening.. You guys are the best. =]

  • How about like

    "Natural"

    It goes along with something everyone uses everyday,

    Like many people have said; "Xanga is my life, I write everything in xanga, what I do everyday and what I feel goes into xanga".

    The Natural things one does everyday in there life is found on xanga almost.
    A badge could go with like a rainbow, or like the "world tree" haha. a giant tree icon ^^ (small icon but giant tree picture. Make sense? I hope.)

    -Austin / Rakusho

  • Create badges-but-more-objective idea.

    I like.

  • I hate the idea of any label, simply because it is a label.  Why not honor anniversaries instead.  Usually people mention their "xangaversary". The criteria would already be in place. On your xangaversary you get a 1 for your first year, a 2 for your second, etc.  You could have a choice of graphics to put the number on if you wanted to go to the trouble of "opting in".   It's clear, concise, doesn't label anyone or rely on good or bad content or even attempt to number the amount of posts or comments a person makes.   It also wouldn't be divisive.

    Thank you John and xangateam for opening this forum to discussion.  I hope my suggestion doesn't get lost in the shuffle.  Either way you are all great and I for one appreciate your hard work.

  • Idea #2 - blog spam till you get the top tier badge! ease mode!

    P.s. please give archiving =( I like to read over my old blogs!

  • I think this controversy is the natural result of all that time spent in classrooms where everyone gets rewarded continually for the sake of their self-esteem. People reach the point of resenting recognition of anything, and wanting everyone to be recognized equally.

    I'm not a nut or an addict; posting every day is a discipline for me. My xanga is my daily journal, and it is important to me. I don't need recognition for it, but I also don't need to be identified by a negative term in order to mollify people for whom it is not important.

    I also like knowing which blogs update regularly, because I prefer to read those. It's part of the sense of community which I like about xanga, to have people we visit regularly and get to know as they write.

    You can't please everyone, but the "true" program makes sense to me.

  • OMFG,   I Thought I Was The Only One That Felt A That Way Bout The
    Badges.   Cause It Makes Me Feel Like I Stayed On Xanga For The Wrong
    Reasons.

    @SeoulSpirit8 -

    I Truthfully Did Not Understand Myspace...   Im Not Gonna Facebook Ever!!!     I Dont See The Point Of Them.  Wait..  Im Going Off Track...

    Xanga = Simple = I Liked It Mores

  • Im Not Sure If Someone Has Said This,   But Here Goes.

    See Im Not Entirely Sure What Credits Do,  Except With The Minis.

    I Propose That People Can Buy Badges With Credits.   I Mean,  Badges Expire After Like Who Knows How Long,  And Cost Massive Amounts Of Credits...   I Think The Only Downside Is People Might Go Crasy Commenting Random People With Spam Comments Like "Random Comment Propz"   Just To Have Enough Credits...  >.>

    Im Destroying My Own Idea...   Least Im Tryna Give The Pros And Cons...   I Mean The UpSide Is More Active Users Trying To Earn A Momentary Badge...   But Also A Down Side Is The Motive Behind Their Activity.  I Personally Hate Random Commenters That Say Nothing About My Weblog Entry...   "Why Not Message Me If You Want To Be Friends?"  

    Imma Stop Typing Now Before I Go Into A Whole List Of Things I Hate About Random Comments...

  • @Exqsme - Hey, I like that idea!

  • I already have left a comment about this on one of your  previous post .
    I agree with indigolady above . All kind of labels are dangerous for Xanga .

    In friendship
    Michel

  • @priorities - Yah that survey is for real.

    @fauquet - Helo Fauqet!  Yes, I saw your analogy on Morgane's post... oh my!  We will certainly try and downplay the labeling component that you highlighted.

    @indigolady - We're not thinking of this as a label, but as a way to recognize our most active users.  I understand how the TRUE icon could be interpreted that way though.  So we'll be looking for solutions to mitigate that.

  • I would choose the last option. People who get the True badge deserve it for contributing so much. :D

  • I'd like to respond to some of the comments.

    First, on the question of whether it is good business to distinguish among customers: yes, it is. I am also a member of Amazon Vine, and while I would not have applied for either Vine or True, I was really pleased to be recognized. I work in a business that has a Preferred Customer program, as many do. Our Premium memberships here at Xanga are examples of that kind of system, and it works well. It recognizes that there are customers who actually keep you in business, as well as those who just benefit from your services.Second, a commenter pointed out that True status is something to strive for. I don't know the requirements, but I've seen True members who don't have premium, people like me who rarely comment, and others who don't post regularly. It obviously is not an elite group that is unreasonably hard to aspire to. It's good to have goals in life.Finally, I agree that I would not want to be identified as a nut or an addict. I work hard on my Xanga, frankly, and I appreciate the recognition.Thanks!

  • For the record, I agree with fibermom.

    "Just an observation, but I think it's kinda funny most of the "I think TRUE is fine" comes from bloggers who already have the badge and most of the push for one of the other two options are encouraged by those who don't have one....I'm just pointing out the trend I saw browsing these responses, not sure what it means. ;) "

    This situation reminds me of an ethics class I had. There was a starter discussion wherein the teacher gave two scenarios: He would sell an A to one student or he would give As to all the students if just one student asked him to sell an A. Everyone was opposed to the first scenario, but only one person was opposed to the second.

    His response? "It's always the student who works the hardest who is opposed to scenario two."

    The essential misunderstanding in this is that "fair treatment" is synonymous with "same treatment" which just isn't the case.

  • No one is complaining the the existence of "Life" Xangans somehow implying others are "Death" Xangans.

    By the way, thank you so much for the recognition.  I do not blog (what i would consider) very often anymore, but i am an active in making comments.  I don't always feel i get as much feedback as i give.  BUT, having this little badge helps me feel that it is truly worth giving the attention.  You guys rock the hell out of MySpace!  Keep up the excellent work!

    Of course, i am not saying it is the only thing.  I have gotten some wonderful feedback from folks on Xanga.  But, the true badge was a very nice surprise, and a very effective encouragement.

    Jealousy is not a virtue, and should not be rewarded.

    Also, an incremental ranking system would really emphasize the "how i compare to you" factor.  If you, Xanga's makers, follow through on option#2, Xanga True will completely transform into a drama-game of comparison in people's minds. 

    What is worse is if you do option#2 and then revert!  Oh my gosh!  Then, not only would it be established as a childish drama-game of comparing others, but then it would be done poorly with only 2 rankings!

    Go for option#3.  Leave Xanga True as a well done encouragement.

    If you fall for the idea that it is a ranking (and act out on that by doing option#2), the Xangan community will fall for it also, and thus Xanga True will be ruined.

    If not option#3, do option#1.  I would recommend "Xealot" as in "zealot".

  • Wait... people have a problem with the true program? That's dumb. I think it's cool. Mostly because I have a true badge. Ha ha. But seriously, props to the xanga team. You guys are so cool you could be the might ducks. :0

  • i fully agree with #2 in that it is ALL-INCLUSIVE. (that means i'd get one! YAY.)

    ha ha ha

    yes the Emo is also an attention-whore. if you hadn't noticed [then u were prolly blind].

    actually, i'm part of a mother's group site called MOMCONNECTION.COM and they do someting similar to whats mentioned in #2. it has never gotten any negative remarks on that site, so it just might work here.

    KEEP ROCKIN!

  • I like idea #1 (a & b).  I also feel a bit like I am in HS again since I didnt get one either and yet, I comment and post often -but only when it makes sense! LOL  Guess that is the price I pay for having had a baby recently and not being able to post and comment as regularly as I was before then. 

    My concern with #2 is that people would be commenting only to get their "badge" rather than because they actually have something to say. 

    You guys are awesome and I love being a part of this community!  Keep up the great work!

  • @Roaring_T_Rex - I love that one!  "Xealot"! 

  • @HungLho - I totally agree with that as well.  I only comment when I actually have something to say that contributes or applies to the post.  I dont want a million comments just so someone can say they "comment a lot"

  • I think that the idea behind the badge is great. I think its great to recognize your top contributors. And I don't have a problem with how its distributed either. I think its ok to be selective and exclusive (as long as its done fairly, of course!). I think that all of the intentions are in the right place. I just think that TRUE has a downside...My only issue is with the name itself, because you label some as TRUE and you are therefore implying that others are not. So I think renaming it would be a good idea. Xanga Team, you're clearly good at making up name, hence Xanga, so why not come up with a new word to replace TRUE. If you're devoted to Xanga, you get a XUGNU badge or a XAG or something silly like that. Or, take a look at what the badge really means. Yes, it means that you are true (faithful) to Xanga, but it also means that you are a Xanga MASTER or CHIEF or LEADER. 

    @Roaring_T_Rex - 

    The opposite of the life badge isn't death... the LIFE badge is available, BY PURCHASE, to anyone who chooses to subscribe to Xanga for life. You should get a badge for that. You paid money to Xanga, supported the blog & you have something to show for it. Those who don't have the LIFE badge simply didn't purchase a "life" plan on Xanga. Its a choice. The TRUE badge on the other hand, is a label/badge that the Xanga team places on certain Xanga bloggers, telling them that THEY ARE TRUE, while implying that others are not.To me, the LIFE badge doesn't say that "YOU ARE LIFE" (which doesn't make sense). The LIFE badge says "You've subscribed for life" or "You're committed to Xanga for life," and those who don't have the LIFE badge haven't. The TRUE badge seems like more of a judgement than the LIFE badge. Just my opinion. :)

  • PS- XangaTeam- even if you don't change anything at all (because you will never please all of the people, all of the time), I think its great that you're opening this topic up for discussion & listening to all sides. You are doing a heck of a job... it can't be easy!!

  • I like all of your ideas and thanks for my true badge!:)

  • To me, my writing has nothing to do with being "true" to Xanga or being a "Xanga adict."  I just like to write, and Xanga happens to be where the majority of my blogging friends and family members are.  (Not that I have any major complaints--it's definitely more my style than what I've seen of Facebook or Myspace.)  Having a badge that says "true" implies to me a verdict on the content of the site--and there is no guarantee that someone who does a lot of writing is doing a lot of accurate writing.  Also, "true" to me could imply some connection with the Xanga Truth stuff that I see advertized a lot on the Xanga main page, much of which I find in poor taste and would rather not be associated with.  I don't like to reject a gesture of appreciation, but if it's just a "badge" that labels me as a Xanga adict, I'm inclined to politely opt out of it if I can.

  • hi!

  • My opinions on each:

    1) Choose a name that is less of a label

    a) I don't like this idea as much because there are people who are in love with Xanga but who do not post comments or entries. Giving certain people a label such as "Xanga Addict" or "Xanga Nut" may make the people who only read entries feel like they're a xanga addict and deserve a badge as well (regardless of the description).

    b) I really like this idea.

    c) If Xanga is going to use literal names, they're probably going to have to be specific for almost the same reason as 1a.

    2) Create more badges, but make them sound more objective:

    If it's based on xanga entries - some people keep one entry and edit it every day and delete the previous day, but this would (possibly and probably) be counted as a total of only one entry -- not exactly fair. I definitely don't think you should use the word "newbie"... it has about a million connotations to a person who may not know the difference between "newbie" and "n00b." This also has the potential for a person to become active artificially--posting junk comments and entries, etc. In general, I don't like this idea because it goes against the purpose of Xanga (creators? workers?) of creating "TRUE" badges. "TRUE" badges and another other kind of badge has the potential of creating a more concrete hierarchical society, but I personally believe that a sort of hierarchy exists already. (If it didn't, there would be no reason for TRUE to even have developed.)

    3) Stick with the word True

    I'm used to the idea/term for the most part. I still feel a little bit jealous because I don't get a badge (haha), but I understand that I'm not as active as some of the people who have "TRUE" badges presently and therefore not really qualified for the badge. (Considering the goal of the badge was to reward people who actually are highly active.)

  • I like option #2. #1 is a viable option, but I wouldn't go with the picture badge because people gotta address it somehow. Picture this: "Oh I've got the Xanga rainbow badge thingy!"

  • I like the word "TRUE".

    I'm gonna be mean, and just throw it out there: if you are whining about not being recognized, you're a frkn loser.

    Naturally, in life, if there's a winner, there's going to be losers; if there's an experienced person, there's going to be someone's who's relatively inexperienced; if there's someone strong, someone's gonna have to be weak. Following the same logic, if someone's recognized, of course the rest are going to be categorized as "unrecognized."

    Real world ain't kindergarten where everyone can be winners. I'm sorry to say those w/out the badges, but the people who do have it have been fervently writing when the flock was moving toward myspace and facebook.

    In any case, if we keep the "TRUE" badge, those w/out it, if they really are true to the xanga and community, they can have something to look forward in having. It's like earning ribbons for military officers: you got to earn it.

    conclusion/verdict: We should keep "TRUE"

  • Im a very new member, but either way i like #2. p.s. i <3 Xanga

  • True to me, recognizes those who are True to themselves...by keeping and contributing to the efforts of what Xanga is about.

    (just a thought)

  • i think something less serious like "xanga nut" would probably offend fewer people. "true" sounds kind of cultish...?

    quick question - how do you select who becomes a "true" xangan? my friend who rarely blogs and comments got a "true" badge. lol. i found that strange. i've seen users who blog and comment much more often than she does yet do not have a badge (not refering to myself because i know i don't blog much).

  • Universal inbox!!!!!!!  FABULOUS!!!!!!!

    Private page, without being set on the private page?  I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!  Love, love, love it!!!!!!

    Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!

  • i am little dissapointed about the whole labeling thing - but as i have a life i doubt i will ever earn the title - that is if you are still giving it out - so do premium people get it automatically since they are paying?

  • How do you judge who gets it? I have been active with Xanga for over 3 years....

  • I'm fine with the word "True," although your worry about "Addict" upsetting substance abusers I find rather amusing.  Because you know you could do that same thing with everyone... "True" may upset habitual liars!  I'm all about the silly names, but from an icon standpoint, "True" just makes more sense as far as size, etc.

  • @Roaring_T_Rex -

    Xealot is awesome, lol - I love it

  • I like the true badge.  If people feel offended by it, maybe change it to something like the Xanga Star program, where the Star users get a gold star by their name?

  • Hey can somebody help me? I had the new home page and then I accendently{sp?} took it off and I would like to get it back. Have a good day ya'll!!   -C

  • I think you should either go with TRUE, or maybe go with the second option.

    I have a lot of private/protected posts. Would they be counted in that kind of -- badge-giving?

    I actually like the idea of TRUE. It motivated me to post and comment, because I like special things like that.

    I think it's silly that people are so worked up over something like this, though. :/

    If you get it, cool beans, if not -- it's not the end of the world.

  • I like idea number 2 but make the criteria more than just posting.  It would be great if the number of pulse and photo updates could be included in the numbers if they are not already.

    I wish I was more creative and I would come up with some great name.

  • #2 would definitely be awesome.

  • I like 'TRUE'  because of what it means, for that matter, also like 'HARDCORE' & quite like 'FLY' which of course could lead to an esteemable 'SUPERFLY' :)

    I responded on the subject of my TRUE decal as a possible promo link to some other web related business that'd take it beyond the web, scoop up interest to bring back to Xanga - little more required than a press release, print run of some business cards/compliment slips & a poster.

     I would enjoy seeing category 2 come to life with badges like;
    Xanga PROMO, a person who brings in interest through Xanga related promoting
     ~ REAL someone whose site content regularly links them to current affairs while they keep it real on any given subject
     ~ STREET, A Xangan who was the first on their street to get a Xanga site, awarded when everyone on the street [with a computer] has a Xanga site
    ~ BIZ, Someone with a business that operates through Xanga
    ~ RINGA, lookalikes
    ~ COG, someone who works on the mechanism and functioning of Xanga
    ~ MEDIA, someone handling press matters on a Xanga site
    ~ MEDIUM, someone who can mediate, matchmake or tell it like it is with a well-founded elemental awareness or even mystical understanding in order to meet ends

     ...and so on, hope to simply go places with Xanga always meaning something good

  • Well, maybe the TRUE program can stay and there can be more other programs to be launched wherein others can qualify as well. Of course, not everyone will qualify. There are limitations. If everyone else will qualify, then the sense of the program is lost. We can all just have a plain Xanga badge since we're all Xangans anyway. But the LIFE or TRUE Xanga programs have qualifications and we can't all just push ourselves to get it. I'm sure the Xanga team has something in store for everyone that we can all enjoy one at a time. :) Cheers!

  • @PrincessRunner - I agree! I don't have the TRUE Xanga badge but it doesn't make me feel I'm "untrue." I understand who can only get the TRUE badge. Of course, in any other community, there are different programs. The very fact that you joined that community makes you a real member. Now, it's up to you if you will be qualified for any other programs. Let's all support the Xanga team for their efforts to make us happy. :)

  • i, personally, don't see anything wrong with the "True" program, but if i had to choose a different one i would say that option 2 would be my pick.  

  • You can't please everyone ! There are people who will complain no matter what you make it.
    Personally, I think that the ranking system is nice, but at the same time, you should keep the TRUE thing. Maybe you could make it two separate things? One would be a ranking system, to show how long someone's been on Xanga/how active someone is. But you should also keep the TRUE thing .. I think it's great that it recognizes the special members who are active in not just posting, but also reading and commenting. The community is what holds the site together.
    If people feel "untrue" .. well, hopefully they will realize that the badge is not intended to make people feel that way.

    Either way, great job with this !

  • I have a random suggestion that might help promote xanga...

    We should make banners!

  • thanks for Xanga True!

  • I am going to complain about something totally unrelated to TRUE. I've been told multiple times about the xanga surveys to get 2000 credits, and I've been trying to take a survey all day... and it won't let me! I don't qualify for any of their *criteria!* What the hell does that mean?? I've tried to take every survey they redirect me to, and I don't qualify. That's bogus!

  • I like the idea of #2. Perhaps that can work.

  • I don't mind not having a badge. That's not why I blog. I like having a place to write things down and keep in touch with older friends and the people I find interesting and have subbed too. It's like my own little community. As far as the larger xanga community I just don't have time for that. So I don't mind not having a bade. But it does hurt a little that because I'm not interested in participating in the larger community of xanga I'm not a 'true' xanga user. Of course I'm a true xanga user. I don't need a badge to state that. But I also don't need a badge on lots of other people's sites implying I'm less of a xangan then they are. That seems silly, and just plain untrue.

    I like that you are trying to acknowledge members you particpate in the xanga community. That's a good thing.
    I like snoochface's idea of badges you could pick up if you were going to use idea 2.
    I like angi1972's idea of diehard as a replacement word for true. I'm certainly not a diehard and would not be in any way offended to not get one of those badges. It doesn't imply that I am less of a xangan.

  • @frejaluna - You can't opt out of a TRUE badge you didn't get. Some of us have decided we don't want to particpate in the larger xanga community. Some of us, myself included, are content with our small xanga community, but it doensn't mean we are less of a xangan then those that got the badge. I don't care if I have a badge or not. That's not the issue. The issue is that the badge implies that those who got it are a 'better' kind of xangan then me.

    To me it seems that those who like the word are either people who got it or people who hope to get it someday. I fall into neither of those categories. I don't blog for a badge, and I certainly wouldn't go around commenting hoping to get one. I'd rather continue my pretty much anonymous existance. But the TRUE badge implies that this isn't good enough in the xanga community. I don't believe that is the case.

    I just think there is a better way to acknowledge the people xanga
    wants to acknowledge without a word that connotates that someone
    belongs here more or is worth more to the xanga community.

  • I'm not deeply invested in any of the choices, they're all fine, but what about using the five colors in the Xanga logo.  You could either have a progression from one color to the next based on community involvement, or you could add a color as the person progresses from on "level" to the next.  That said, I wonder how other communities have tried to achieve the same results.

  • option #1 is def my favorite.
    i don't like the forum kind of names thing. more badges defeats the purpose of having badges to single out some people in the first place..
    i  even schools do it. school captains are given badges. prefects are given badges.
    it does seem intimidating in schools. makes you feel less equal.. and feeling less equal in the place you spill your heart out to is kinda.. bleh. so yeah..

    id like to be able to call myself an xanga junkie or an x-junkie....(but then again it sounds drug related)... i like the xanga addict idea. because its most original. like 'true', but people are offended, so you should probably chose something diff instead of true..

    BUT some people who know people who were an addict and  died through drugs, will bring bad memories whenever they read the word addict.. which isn't nice at all. just thought i would point that out. so the particular word addict could be replaced with something else like nut/junkie/fiend/... i don't know..

    but personally i like a xanga "Groupie".. id personally love a badge from xanga that says groupie on it. coz its fun.. but thats just me lol. idk.

  • I wasn't used to this TRUE badge thing at first but now I kinda like it.  After reading some comments about it, I thought it might be really cool (but complicated) if people can earn "ranks" or "colors" (denoted by the number of xanga colored boxes...you know, those color boxes underneath the words XANGA or TRUE... filled in on the TRUE badges) if they fulfill certain criteria. It could be the same criteria that TRUE badges currently use.  Or it could be stuff like: If one post x amount of entries he/she get a certain color box filled in.  If a person posts with x amount of time per month he/she gets a color box filled in.  If a person has been a xanga member for x amount of time, he/she gets a color box. Or it could be like if a person has x amount of entries, they get 1 box filled in on their badge, and for x + y amount of entries, they get 2 boxes filled in and so forth...like rankings.  I know, it gets all complicated, but it was fun thinking about it.

  • @CuteMami - Me too! 

  • @centuscoelis - 

    In your words:  Some of us have decided we don't want to particpate in the larger xanga community. Some of us, myself included, are content with our small xanga community, but it doensn't mean we are less of a xangan then those that got the badge.

    Then what does it matter?  You are presenting a double negative, cancelling out your own point with your explanation.  If you don't want to be part of a larger community and haven't received the badge, then you're NOT part of this larger community of which you speak.

     

    By the way, other than participating in this discussion, I am NOT part of a "larger xanga community" at all.  I don't blog for a badge.  In fact, I really don't blog here at all.

     

  • Wow! Hard to believe the madness is only one month away, Cat wait till the games begin, I am also counting on making a little extra cash on the side betting on them, the last 2 years have been good to me and I have made a little extra at wagerweb.com March Madness hope I make it a lucky 3 this year

  • I like the "True" badge as is (although i still haven't been blessed with its presence...)

    I think using something funny or quirky would also work. Like just the word "ADDICT" or "BORN TO BLOG" or "XANGTASTIC".... the possibilities are endless.

  • If you're going to have this program, then I think someone who's posted very consistently (4-5 times a week) for over 4 years should have a true label.  IE me. 

    Not sure what your qualifications are, and if I need to put in another few thousand posts, but I'm not bitter.  Much.

    Well, actually I am pretty bitter.  But I'll get over it.

    Eventually.

  • it seems like an absolutely worthless feature in my opinion, I've been with xanga since 2003 and consistently write worthwhile engaging blogs, and no one even cares.  Which is fine, I write for myself, but the community that was here a couple years ago, is much different than what is here now, mostly because of the agenda you guys now currently promote.  I say this because most of the best writers left xanga at some point or another.

  • I think some of the people who made those suggestions misunderstood.  That, or I'm the one who's confused.

    As I understand it, the "True" badge isn't given simply for giving a heckuvalot of comments, or posting a lot.  You don't automatically get the badge after posting 100 blogs or leaving 100 comments, or making 100 friends.  The badge was given to people who actually do stuff for the community.  Thus, 1c is completely off the rocker.  2 is similarly moving away from what it means to be True.

    It should be noted that I was lucky enough to be chosen for the honour, and I am hardly the most "ACTIVE" or "OUTGOING" person.  I don't blog that often now, and I don't comment on others' sites as often as I once did - university course load has swamped me.  If I'm correctly, I was given the badge because I help out a lot in the Themes forums.

    I can get on board with 1a, and 1b (to a lesser extent), but I don't see anything wrong with using the word True.  But 1a, yes - I wouldn't mind it being a hilarious, silly name.

  • the whole "true" badge has motivated me to try and be more active in the xanga community (after not using xanga for over a year...)

    now I want one of those badges!  haha

  • ??

  • Some people are just complainers. The idea was a good one. True is not a bad nomenclature. The non-bloggers on xanga are taking offense. So what?

    Why have a blog, if you are not going to be active with it? What is the sense?

    Those of us who blog regularly should not be penalized for it. If your blog is not a "True".....then blog more! Then you will be.

  • I think number 2 is probably your best bet when combined with number 3.

    I wouldn't change the name from TRUE because the ones who earned the badge deserve all of the benefits (for lack of a better word) of an active Xangan.  If I were as active as them and I had a TRUE badge but it was a symbol or something to that extent, I would feel a faint underappreciation of all my hard, but enjoyed, work.  Just because some people can't step up their game doesn't mean TRUE Xangans should pay the price.  Then there are those people who have demanding lives that just can't get on as much as they would like to.  What happens to them?  There are a million factors that influence this badge, and what if we don't take them into consideration?  Whatever has the power to help, also has the power to hurt, which is demonstrated by all the conflicting ideas regarding the TRUE badge.

  • Well... I like the idea of #1- Xanga Addict is cute. And I like #2 as well... that way everyone is included. Unless they want to opt out and then they have that chance as well... also there should be some kind of log in badge thing, cause I know I have logged in to read my subs like everyday for the past several years but went thru bouts where I updated just every once in a while and I'm sure some people do that as well.  I would still consider them to read and comment regularly true xangas or xanga addicts, whatever you want to call it.

    And I also would def love to nominate some people. I have been reading some of the people on my subs list for years now regularly and they don't have the true badge. So I plan to check back and nominate a few people as soon as you guys get that up and going!! Maybe make it where each user can only nominate a certian amount of people that way they have to chose the people who they think are the best of xanga!

    Anyway you guys decide to do it I think that this is a good idea and def going to start getting users more active again! Good work! <3

  • oh, i guess it's nice to be recognized for my greatness.

  • I like #2.

  • I like TRUE, but if you decide to change it I like the word my husband (HumbleWalk) coined: xanguru. He pronounces it so it rhymes with kangaroo.

  • I think it was a nice gesture to recognise  the users who have contributed a lot to the site throughout the  years. :)

  • i think its osm. =]

  • I support TRUE; its purpose is to symbolize users rather than categorize them.

    Thank you to the XangaTeam for giving us so much freedom as it is!

  • you guys should create a feature in where we can send more than one comment at a time. like, the same message to everyone in a blogring, or something like that. or even to everyone on xanga =)

    even if that's not possible, it would be superamazing and make my life a hundred times easier. haha.

  • oh, and I should mention that me & my friend Samantha came up with a code to get rid of your left module advertisement. Jeeze, it was a total switch up from the last ad. We didn't think it would be so easy. We tried all sorts of really complicated html, java, and C#, but when we finally figured it out, we were furious. It was so simple. And we overlooked it.

    You guys are brilliant =)

    but, I don't like the new blogrings set up. icky.

  • @frejaluna -

    Your words: Then what does it matter?  You are presenting a double negative, cancelling out your own point with your explanation.  If you don't want to be part of a larger community and haven't received the badge, then you're NOT part of this larger community of which you speak.

    You seem to have missed the part where I mentioned that my problem is the connotation of the word true. That it implies the rest of us are "untrue" and therefore "unequal." If it's decided to keep TRUE just the way it is, I have no problem with it, but since they are asking for our opinions it makes sense to me to say "hey, couldn't you find another word that acknowledges but doesn't discriminate at the same time." The reason I replied to you was that you mentioned how xanga has all these opt out choices. I was just pointing out that we can't opt out of something we didn't get. We can't opt out of something we aren't planning on earning. But in the intrest of fairness, since the xangaGods asked, we can opt to voice our opinion. It's not whining when they ask for our two cents.

    They stated that in order to get TRUE you had to particpate in the larger xanga community. Since you have a badge it means at some point you did participate....even if it isn't recently.

  • hey i got a questiong? I was wondering how do u get your xanga to be a featured blog and how do u get people to join you blogring. Its aggrivating I check everyday but no one joined i dont know how to get it out there so people will want to come to it. You guys and other people have hundreds of comments and I seam that i can even get one. Please comment back.

  • Your number two option makes the most sense to me. An objective way to give this entire deal a system.
    -David

  • I haven't gotten the true badge, but I like the idea. I think it's good to see whose contributed and have been loyal to xanga. I think that true should stay. The whole xanga team is so amazing and try to make everybody feel fine with everything. And ask for us users to give feedback, which is one thing other places do not give.

    People shouldn't read too much into it. Even if you change the icon or name, there will still be the "badge" and it will be the difference between on xangan and another, so changing it won't really change anything. I say keep it. :]

  • I could go either way on this one. I do like the idea of an icon based on number of posts, ex. newbie, addict, etc. But I think there needs to be some sort of requirement that also includes number of comments posted, activity level, etc. Otherwise, if it's based on something like number of friends, etc. like on myspace or other journaling sites, you get people who send invites to hundreds of people they don't know, and it becomes a game of sorts to get as many friends as possible. But seriously-- if you have 1200 "friends", just how good of "friends"
    can you be? And if you really keep up with them all, then sure, I suppose you
    deserve the "senior" level tag/icon, cause you probably don't have any
    sort of life outside of your computer screen!

    You may also get people who leave one word or one line posts or comments just to have it "counted" as a post/comment towards their tag requirements. I'd hate to see Xanga become another "flashing-icons-glittery-stuff-you-can't-read-youtube-itunes-semifacebook-"super-site"-wannabe  site where loading one page can often take forever, even with a new computer and super-fast connection. Bigger isn't always better!

    I like the way points for mini's are currently counted. Use this same type of system for the new icon idea, and when you hit a certain point level, you get a permanent mini (until you collect more points). So... definitely go with a tag of some kind. Or even a "star" color
    system kinda like EBay uses. Instead of "Power seller" you could have
    "Power Writer" or something along those lines.

    I've been a xanganian for several years now, and post/comment pretty frequently. But all posts are for a reason and have actual meaning behind them. As mentioned by another user, I like the simplicity of Xanga. I have both a myspace and facebook site, and rarely go to them. I'm on xanga almost every day if not several times a day. I do more of my journaling on here than I do with paper and pen! I've referred friends to xanga as well.

    Can't wait to see what you come up with!
    WLB

  • @ChristianHilton - hardcore sounds good, so does "i have way too much time on my hands to sit around and
    think of ways to label myself and others-core"

    >.>'

    =]

  • Can i temporarily change the language setting on someone else's xanga so that i can read their text? PLEASE HELP!

    -stephen

  • i like the ranking idea mostly because i've already made so many posts.
    i do like the idea of having the TRUE program. although i dont use everything xanga has to offer, i have posted as often as i can over the past few years.

    even after myspace, facebook, livejournal, friendster and all those things, xanga was my first and i'll always be true to xanga whether i've been "labeled" as true or not.

    people shouldnt be hurt whether the name is TRUE or not, you know you've been true to xanga inside. (sorry, i got a bit mushy, haha.)

  • Seriously, Xanga was totally all-fulfilling back in the day. All these new bells and whistles are useless to me. But that's just me. Be Xanga, nothing more, nothing less. No seniors, no newbies, just people with older join dates (but not necessarily more posts). I don't see why a site like this needs so much revamping and competition. And I'm sure there's no need to thank us for using Xanga; after all, it's our pleasure.

  • I say that the ranking system sounds like the best idea... but then again I'm STILL waiting for my badge... guess I'm just not as true as the rest of you... stupid random rhyming not on purpose.

    RR

  • So you've created something that designates a blogger that produces a lot of comments.  Didn't you already have that?  You used to post the most popular (the most commented) blogs on the main page.  Now they get some neat little badge no matter how long they have been around.  What do you do to recognize those that have spent so much more time and emotion but have not whored themselves out just to get some little piece of HTML?

    You've "tweaked" this site to the point where it is difficult to use.  At best it's annoying and at worst it is unusable.  When I joined Xanga the beauty was in its simplicity.  I blogged, it posted, people read if they wanted to, and if I got really adventurous I could join a blog ring of people with a similar mentality.

    Now you've added mini's and the true tag and those truly annoying and disruptive pop-up link previews.  This has become more about appearance than substance.  If I wanted that I'd take Myspace more seriously.

    I'll stick to my small group of dedicated writers, writing about things of substance and not worry about who is getting the most comments and whether that means they're more or less true than anybody else.

  • I would consider my self and addict to this site.

    I like the idea of something silly or just a graphic.

    Anything to me really would be fine.

    Except something thats literary.

  • 1. a- Something silly I like. I would consider myself and addict to this world.
        b- A graphic is also a good idea too. Maybe have a little acorn looking thing with a happy face anime-type looking. Awww just my idea though.
        c- Meh no opinion really, too literal is just boring. Like watching the president talk and have clapping for 30 mins. No thanks but if the majoirty wins then it wins.

    2. Is also a very good idea. I just dont know how that would work for the people who change their username alot. I would deff keep this name though if you do decide to do it that way instead.

    3. If some people are going to feel put down or out of place with out the badge/word whatever you chose then I say dont keep the word true. Wanna be fare right?

    Maybe you could combine 1 and 2, like have two as a rank system, newb, la la blah junk n so on till an addict or nut whatever you want then when they get to the nut rank you could have the little smiley face nut graphic I was talking about... Ohhhh this is fun thinking of ideas!!

    Yes I had to write my own opinion from my real blog!

  • i like "true." stick with it!

  • @tazz66 - Call it a cut-off point then - if you have to go a long way to make a refined summary statement entailing a 'round-the-houses' haul to get there with innumerable in depth items en route & publish it all so that it is the simplest way of finding it all again wherever and whoever you are then for your benefit I'll simply mention that I will at some juncture have acutely outlined a profound element in the nature of the human condition from a personal point of view - one that could otherwise be an emerging symptom in myself and others if I just let news & current affairs stream through my life unchecked - To present though, contrary to your remark, I am finding that I do not have enough time and have had to brush up typing skills and better equip my vocabulary for the daily steamroller of world events taking place.  I have to more or less want everything going on with just a comment from me to mark it's passing in my life because it's impossible to directly oppose it, so I dutifully place information like putting items in the wash at the right temperature....    Even when I am content with the effort, I will [have to] do it all again and the 'cut-off point' it perceivably creates will be be a line drawn representing a person and their rights, or the new face of a campaign I either endure or promote.   It is a lifetime in the making whatever you do with your time as anyone who inherits genes can tell you.

  • @chaoswone2 - have you typed the http://pageaddress into Google's 'Translate a Web Page'

  • I like the true name.
    It's probably because I have it but I feel like this is waaay too much drama for a little button that means "thank you"

  • and ps I love it.

  • Please remain true to the "TRUE" program. I was honored to receive the badge, and it can give non-TRUE users something to work towards, right?

    ~~Mary~~

  • put the blogrings back the way they were.
    They are just way much confusing nowwww

  • I think it's funny how the ones who don't have the true badge are the ones mostly complaining, but once they get it they keep quiet.

    I don't care whether or not I have a 'true' badge because I blog and use xanga for my own enjoyment. I use xanga to vent and keep in contact with my friends because I don't use facebook, myspace, or whatever.

    If you claim to be a loyal xangan then keep doing what you're doing and over time I'm sure you'll receive the badge too.  Stop being babies.

    I'd also like to add that I agree with whoever above me mentioned the uselessness of the new features, like the minis.  And the annoying pop up ads.  The ads on the left side aren't too hot either.  They make my xanga look much more unappealing than when there were ads on the top of the page. 

    I like how Xanga gives us the option to keep our old layout or try out the new -- can we do that with the subscription page too?  Cause I really don't like the new look of the subscription page >O<

  • I like #2.  Longevity and number of posts should count for something, if anything's going to count. 

    There should be a way to weight it for post quality as well. I know some terrific bloggers who have been on Xanga for quite a while, who write well-crafted and incisive analyses, but who don't really get much traffic, perhaps because they don't write about Paris Hilton enough.

    Also those who actively comment on other's site should be recognized, since Xanga just wouldn't be any fun without comments.  Well, most comments.

    I have a deep-seated bias against popularity contests

  • This seems like just another way Xanga is trying to promote the blogs and users they want to promote creating an elitist environment where us little guys who are active but receive little or not attention find it impossible to move up. 

    Like the new stars system, it makes it even harder for good bloggers to move up and the same old crap floats on top.  You used to show us the most recent posts, new members, and other cool ways to find new content.  Now all we are exposed to is Theologian's Cafe which shares little of his own ideas and thoughts and is void of any real content. 

    Thanks for pushing quantity over quality. Thanks for nothing.

  • You have GOT to be kidding me!  This is just another example of political correctness run amok.

    Honestly, it's just too bad everyone has become so hyper-sensitive these days ...

  • I love the TRUE name and program. So what if they aren't being recognized? This isn't supposed to be for everyone.

  • By the way, I think a badge system is a really bad idea. It will do nothing but junk up people's comments and xanga pages.

  • I don't really get the whole point of it but I prefer idea 2.

  • The objective badges thing sounds like a good idea. You do a certain level of posts, comments, and you go up from newbie to novice, and so on. Although I am curious as to what the criterion was for being named to such an honor as the original badge. I had a friend who started her xanga at the same time I did react to my being named "true" by saying "man I gotta get internet". In all honesty, I only blog because I have a habit of getting frustrated with paper journals and burning them. This is much cheaper.

  • Dear XangaTeam

    Please, oh-please, could you list [preferably in full] the criteria you use within the selection process?  I would thoroughly enjoy being given the opportunity to opt-out of being a TRUE Xangan, but this is proving decidedly difficult because it seems I'm not fulfilling the criteria which would allow me to be considered for such an honourable title.  This hurts me, XangaTeam.  You've left me feeling battered and bruised, and so-very inferior to the thousands of Xangans you hold in much higher esteem.  But, as is your will, I shall just continue plodding along with my Xanga, and allow the harsh and unedifying task of fulfilling the unknown criteria take over my life. 

    Thank you XangaTeam gods, for listening to a mere UnTRUE.

    Love, katiefinger x

  • I like TRUE.... reminds me of that old song, be true to your school. 

  • i like both numbers 2 and 3, but i'd lean more towards number 3..  it's really hard to please everyone..  more work for you guys..  thanks so much for the hard work in prepping all this and stuff..  :)

  • I think John and co pretty much have my viewpoint on this after my blog on the topic.. but to those who say that this is "something to work towards" - it's already been stated that it's only been given to a select few (thousand) and that we can't apply for it.  So how can people work towards it?  And why should we implement competition here?  What community enforces competition amongst its members?  Why set community members up against each other, or hail some above others without letting it be up to the community itself? 

    Having or not having the TRUE badge adds a context to words here.  If I don't have it, and I'm against the programme, I'm a malcontent.  If I have it and I'm against the programme, I'm accorded more respect - and it's not necessarily due to the strength of my argument.  The presence of absence of the badge lets others read motive into my position which simply isn't there, and that's just one reason why I think this was a bad idea.  I want my words taken at face value, without contextual meanings being read into them, and this takes away from that.

    And sure, there are competitions in life, and I am a realist - people can't all win everything (we all have our strengths and weaknesses), but you know what?  There should be some places free from competition.  We're not all gonna be published, and we're not all Pulitzer prize contenders, but we should all have a voice, and distinguishing between our voices on a basis of how often or loudly we shout, rather than how well we articulate, is anathema to what I thought this community was about.

    I still like the opt in / opt out rankings in Option 2 best.  And the exact criteria need to be clarified and made available, so it's not some big mystery.  If it still needs to be on quantity (rather than a nomination based 'quality' concept) you could even make it a dual thing - on one hand, the number of years you've been on Xanga, and on the other, the number of comments/blogs you've made.

    And on a "quality rather than quantity" note.. have you ever investigated a sort of "personalised recommendation" system?  One of my favourite ways of finding new Xangans is from seeing who my friends read.  I won't look at a Xanga "TRUE" badge and go ooh I should read that person.  However, if I could look at my friend's Xanga page and see a section there saying "I recommend THIS blog or THIS post" I'd be far more likely to go check it out.  I know it's about a gajillion times more complex than it sounds in theory.. but a link or button on each post that visitors could hit, and add to their "personal recommendations"?   I'd go back to Premium for that alone.

  • I like #2 and #3 better than option #1. I personally found the 'true' label somewhat perplexing although I am slightly pleased to be noticed as 'true.' I wouldn't use the word 'addict' because of negative aspects of that.

  • can i have true

  • @ChristianHilton - ........ i was bored at the time and had nothing better to then to mess with someone because I'M the one with nothing better to do.

    =|

    nice reply though ^^

  • Ive been around for a while... and by that I mean years.... left more comments than I could even imagine... blogged more...  and find myself without the "TRUE"

    Do I care?  No.  I think Im at a point in my life where it doesn't make a difference.  I blog when I get time... but then again... some "recognition" for the past 5 or so years of my life blogged out would be nice... as others who joined with me those years ago have earned their badge of honor.

    But...  whatever.  Life goes on and so will the xanga community.  Good, bad, or indifferent!

    And at this point, my opinion is pretty indifferent to this whole TRUE idea.

    }i{

  • I say keep it TRUE. Why do people have to get offended so easily? If it is that important to them then I think they would be able to earn the badge, if it isn't that important, they'll have to go without the designator.

  • @frejaluna - ditto.

  • I know it seems ridiculous but I kind of feel left out. I've been blogging on Xanga for almost six years (though I had a different account for the first couple) and it makes me feel like I'm not a true Xangan just because I don't have enough time to sit around and leave comments all day. I like having a place where I can come and write when I want and what I want and share my life with my friends and family. But I guess I think the true badge should be based on more than just how many comments you leave. I could go leave a thousand worthless comments and I'd get a true badge because of that rather than actually contributing to the community.

    I have to admit, I like option two the best but I know how hard that would be to do so I suggest changing the Xanga true badge to a Xanga addict badge. Because I've been true to Xanga for six years now. (Not blogging on other sites.)

  • I actually like the name True-- I find that it's a nice way or rewarding the most active members. I personally don't prefer the other names either-- it makes the awarded members sound like people who go on xanga all day..

  • i like idea #2 then probably the members will get some incentive to go to the next level...

  • I like option #2 best.  I feel like the last kid picked for a team right now, and it's not any fun.  I think if you gave it the ranking type of badge it would be less of a painful experience for those of us not yet found "TRUE".  When I first saw it, I flashed to the show Moment of Truth. . .

  • @tazz66 - That's ok, all things being equal though I should address the balance;  I do not believe boredom exists & that your route lapsing into what is perceived to be a state of boredom is an onset of muscular or cerebral fatigue, one that signals the need for balance rather han complete rest, so you did something, but what might you have done if you were well in advance of the changing state and had a host of measures lined up - instead of nothing better to do.    At least you already have the keyboard at your fingertips, but consider a musical instrument too, a big sketch pad, get Google SketchUp etc.  Tthere's probably no such thing as idle hands either as it is conceivably just as hard to keep from doing something as not doing....  Think of it as a mess and you you're looking at a cleaning job you may never be able to contend with.  Regard it as a peat bed and you as sowing seeds and it's flourishing with life & pollinated since the first comment.  :)

  • Thanks for the message! I'm happy to be back on xanga. MySpace got way to boring!

    Ryan

  • To be quite honest...it's the internet...really? I don't understand the huge fuss. If it's going to cause that much of a hassle though, I would just go with a ranking system like most message boards. It eliminates bias and is equal.

  • Option 2 gives people something to shoot for.  It's has a quantitative value and it doesn't seem like it's assigned as arbitrarily.

  • I dont know if any of you have ever played the game "Guild Wars," but it has a title system that seems to work out pretty well.  There are different titles available based on what you do in the game.  You can earn multiple titles, but get to display only one of them at a time.  I think that might be a neat idea for you to use here.  You can have different titles reflecting how long someone has been a xangan, or how many posts they have posted, how often they post, or how many comments they leave, or how often they leave a comment, or how many (or often) pictures they post.... etc. etc.

    You can have different levels of recognition, for different things that people want to be recognized for.  And they can pick and choose which one they want to display.  Similar to the way people can choose different profile pics when leaving a comment.

  • I like TRUE. I'm dedicated enough to update regularly and comment on other readers' and subscribers' blogs. But then again, I don't speak for everyone...

  • @tazz66 - That's ok, all things being equal though I should address the balance;  I do not believe boredom exists & that your route lapsing into what is perceived to be a state of boredom is an onset of muscular or cerebral fatigue, one that signals the need for balance rather than complete rest.  So you did something, but what might you have done if you were well in advance of the changing state and had a host of measures lined up - instead of 'nothing better to do'?    At least you already have the keyboard at your fingertips, but consider a musical instrument too, a big drawing pad, get Google SketchUp etc.  There's probably no such thing as idle hands either as it is conceivably just as hard to keep from doing something as not doing....  Think of it as a mess and you're looking at a cleaning job you may never be able to contend with.  Regard it as a peat bed and you as sowing seeds and it's flourishing with life & pollinated since the first comment.

  • i like idea number 2 and 3. personally, i think sticking with true is just fine. i'm definitely ready for my badge. after about 6 years of xanga and over 5 paying for it myself, it's about time we get some kind of appreciation. and soon enough, i'll be a xanga for life member. awesomeness. thanks for keeping things interesting enough to keep me around. love it!

    *Jac*

  • I truly (no pun intended) have not given it any thought one way or the other - so I would never be bent or unbent by being deemed True (which I have been-Thanks!) or not! Truly! I post and read posts and stay here @ xanga because I like it - and not for whatever badges may or may not be dished out.  But thank for attempting to recognize folks and I'm sorry you're having such problems!  My grandma always said "the road to hell is paved with good intentions!"  LOL - kinda...  Good luck!

  • wtf man.... why the hell did u change xanga? my xanga is completly different now.... no more html.... dude u destroyed it. thats it man imma delete this shit right now.

  • TRUE is fine. I would feel more insulted than complimented if labeled a xanga "nut" or "addict"

    There will always be a segment unhappy no matter what you do, but they will get over it. I'm sure if you brought up how everyone felt about the LIFE badge, there would have been folks against that as well.

  • Personally I think it works quite well. Good job 'all!

  • I still like "TRUE" the best and I would definitely not want to be labeled "Addict."

    (I just had to try out this Mini.  I'm not implying danger or piracy.) 

  • The tag 'true' just doesn't fit with what you are trying to achieve. That tag gives the impression that the writer on those sites say things in truth while others are false. It just didn't set right with me. Or it means that Xanga is the ONLY place they blog...so are you going to check out all these people to see if they have other blogging sites? That is my impression on what the 'true' tag means to me.

    i have been a Xanga member since 2001 and i blog almost daily over those 7 years. Xanga is the only place i have my daily life in print. Sure i have a myspace account so i can read up on my children who have accounts with that 'other' blogging site. But i remain true/loyal to Xanga and even have become a lifetime member.

    How about after so many entries they are a Xanga Nut and even more entries will give them the 'Xanga Addict' tag. i know what you are trying to do, to reward and recognize those that support this blogging site. But just what are you looking for in a site that will give them this tag? What level of support or involvement are you looking for?

    i think you should have the criteria outlined and then think of the tag that will fit it. Just my humble opinion.

  • Dear XangaTeam,

    *watches a tumbleweed pass by*

    Love, katiefinger x

    PS: I wrote you a longer letter and still await your reply with great anticipation.  Thanking you kindly. 

  • i know you probably receive like a billion comments
    but whatever,
    ok so i thought I might give you a suggestion
    you know how on myspace they have the "Online Now" thing?
    well i think that would be veryyyy helpful on xanga
    and not a bad thing as well!
    thanks for considering!

    -Maria

  • the ads are kinda annoying....

  • #2

  • i LOVE #2 idea :D except we should make it more ... challenging? to reach senior levels. haha ^^;;

  • TRUE is the way to go! stick with it~

  • How about you let each user choose what badge program they want--when they create a new account or when they log in once you've got the program up and running...  Once the user has decided which program--that's it--there's no going back once they hit the select button. I like all three ideas.  I think they are fantastic.  I don't know how to solve that problem.  I would have to see the badge options before deciding which program to opt into!  Keep up the good work!

  • I like #2's suggestion with the ranking from Newbie to Seniors or Veterans. Of course, what do you do when people slack off or just simply dissappear? Then you label them (Senior-non active) but that's just too long. Hahah! Anyway, I like that whole ranking thing.

    "True" is still good. I'm not sad or dissappointed that I'm no longer a "true" xangan since I have slacked off in the past year. But it does give me something to strive for on those days when I have nothing better to do.

  •  I think if you want to honor those who have contributed greatly to the success of Xanga you should go for it. Those who want recognition should work for it and not complain about those who have been given a gesture of appeciation. Those who have applied a great deal of time without seeking recognition should count it an honor (which I do) to be known as TRUE.

  • I think it would be best to have an icon or badge of sorts, but it would be rad if it was in levels...just a general overview of how many posts, instead of a ranking sort of thing. =)

  • I think you should leave it the way it is, although I do like the idea of rank badges; rank badges for so many entries, comments, etc.  As for the TRUE badge in itself, you're going to have someone who is going to find the badge offensive no matter what you call it.

  • I really like the whole idea, im just looking forward to getting one(i hope), no matter what the name.  Its a good concept and the name doesn't matter.

  • Another question that was raise with me and a friend was what is the True badge based on?

    Usage of xanga?

    involvent in the community of xanga? ( like vistiing other xangans, posting comments, etc etc?).
    There's too many factors to count in for a badge like the True badge. i see people left and right that have true badges and wonder what factos were used.

  • When I received the True badge, I was kind of tickled.  It is nice to be recognized.  But it didn't mean anything, since it was unclear who exactly was recognizing me and what exactly I had done to deserve it.  I just write my entries, so my friends and family members know how life in Bangkok is going.  Not setting out to win any awards.

    Based on the points you outlined, there are two things that I think would add value to the True badge:

    1) Have it be (at least in part) a process of nominations.  Kind of a "respected bloggers" list.  Maybe you set it up so the Xanga team reviews it, or maybe if you haven't done a lot of posting or quality posting, you can't yet nominate others?

    2) Any name will have its fans and foes.  Some sort of a logo instead of a word, though, will remove some of the fervor over whether the badge is positive or negative.

    Regards - Christao408

  • I know you xanga admins might never get to this comment, but I'm looking for a job after college.  I'm an EE major... but always up for CS jobs as well. =D

  • The second options sounds the best to me.
    What are the requirements for the 'True' program anyway?

  • Thank you for my TRUE badge! :)

  • Well after checking out a lot of the Xanganites that have gotten the 'TRUE" emblem I still dont see how you decide upon who gets it and who does not........you say its given to those that post and comment on a regular basis yet I have been to numerous sites where the Xanganite post once or twice a week and comments very rare on many sites......why not give us a break down on how you rate the sites.......for "TRUE"

  • I'd like something silly...the TRUE label just made me feel like I was snubbing my friends...but I did appreciate the thought, trying to make us feel appreciated...

  • I happen to like the True system as it shows us who participates in the community.  It's an attempt at bringing people together.  It encourages people to talk to each other, to communicate and share ideas.  It's a great gesture, and it shouldn't be surprising that people are going against it.

    Change is scary.  It's alright to be apprehensive.  It is, however, important to remain open minded.  It's open mindedness that originally showed us the world is round.

  • ' Xanga ' is just perfect to me.
    i've been in it for three or four years already, gotten so use to it

    but i just have to say those google ads...
    it is kind of invading into my blog ( a bit....)

  • @slave_slutangel - I completely agree - I really wish they would outline the terms for this true things.

  • I have a question for the team.........It doesnt matter who answers it.......I have a crap load of Pdf files I would love to share with my friends and subscribers........How do you upload them , then post them so that others can download them?????????

    You can answer here or oh_mother_may_I since I am the same person.

  • I'm sorry some people got hurt for not getting the TRUE badge, but I have to vote number 3. I write because I love to, and being awarded and recognised (although I didn't ask for it) for doing something that I love is incredible.

    That said, I also have to agree with SeoulSpirit8 about the ranking system. I quote, "That defeats the purpose of writing. I would encourage writing for the sake of writing the pure joy of it." This is exactly what I thought, too, when I read suggestion number two.

    Therefore I vote for number 3, but if that doesn't work, I'd settle for number 1(b). Thanks! :)

  • I know personally. I am on xanga all the time, but it doesnt mean i write on my blog all the time. I love xanga and I just wonder how you could compare someone who writes on xanga all the time, but someone who is on xanga almost every day to see how people are doing in there lives and leave comments and write only a few times when something big happens.

  • perhaps a ranking of amount of time of being on...rather than the number of times they write would be more appropriate.

  • actually TRUE is already a nice word. basic and clear enough.
    suggested word: merit
    as some of you suggested, addict is also good!

  • ...I think it shouldn't be about how many comments you have, because not everyone writes on xanga for the fame/comments. I think that if you do a "rating" system or whatever, it would be great if you just made it go by how many posts the person has rather than how many comments. And it should be by images, not by titles...kinda like with the minis, you have to have a certain amount of posts to get certain images

  • Observations that I think are still being overlooked by some in the xanga community-

    It's not that the 'true' badge signifies one is better than the other as a person, but several who already have true badges were quick to judge those with friend lock as 'bad' in some way in previous blog threads.

    It's not that the 'true' badge itself is making some people feel snubbed so much as the xanga community with true badges lending to that feeling by saying 'get over it'.

    It's not that anyone has truly ~earned~ a 'true' badge already, since the haphazard rollout happened before critical criteria was established and published, but they are thinking they did somehow, even though others who better meet the criteria still have not.

    It's not that some are taking it too seriously so much as those with 'true' badges telling others not to take it so seriously.

    Watching the social psychology unfold on this has been fabulous, and would have made outstanding thesis research.

    I've been with xanga for four years and have watched all kinds of hooplah over changes and never blinked an eye, but this one thing has impacted the idea of 'good' and 'bad' so quickly it's scary.  Some people immediately took sides and started making judgement calls on other people they've never met, all based on the true badge and what was being said about it.

    Like I've said before, earning badges turns xanga into an online game system.  As others have pointed out, you throw a few short meaningless comments around and you earn a prize.  If you are going to make this a game, I say go big.  Do like some suggested- make a whole bunch of badges and ranks to earn, make the prizes fun, and don't base it on judging a person's worth in this world.  Too many are ready to jump on the bandwagon and wave sticks, making wrong assumptions, such as those without badges aren't 'good enough'.

    There are a lot of people on xanga who live with terminal illnesses or other big problems who aren't responding to this crap with 100 foot poles.  They use friend lock because they are tired of inexperienced people giving them 'advice' or people feeling bad for them and becoming overly attached.  They aren't here to be popular, but they are wonderful people, and wise beyond their years.  From my own experience, friend lock and protected posting was one of the coolest things xanga ever came up with.  As much as I like hobnobbing, all it takes is a couple of people using the internet poorly to really make someone's day worse.

    I would LOVE to see a badge program installed seperately for the locked community.  There are small groups and blogrings that have been here on xanga for years who care for and support one another through some very bad and hard stuff.  These include nursing and medical staff, family support, and children with both terminal illnesses and mental challenges.  People dealing with severe depression on top of other problems might like to have a cheery little badge, too.  Sometimes the little things mean a great deal in this life, day to day.

    Sorry so lengthy.  Me personally, I live the minis and badges, I think they're cute, but it would be nice not to be considered 'untrue' by others just because they can't openly read my blog or see where all I leave comments.  Perhaps a locked true, eh?  Or rainbow or whatever.

  • I like option #1.  When I first saw the "TRUE" tag popping up I thought it was some super serious member verification system or something!  Anyway, I think it's about time to give me a TRUE badge hint hint lol I've been here since 2002!

    Or, publish the ways in which the badge can be "earned" - like, how many posts? how many points?

  • I love the reply button. thanks!

  • XANGA IS GETTING REALLY RETARED LEAVE IT ALONE IT WAS AWESOME AND NOW IT IS REALLY STUPID!
    I HATE THE NEW MESSAGE BOX!!!!!!!!!

  • bahh, your new blogring system is annoying! i get hardly any visitors. ive heard so many complaints from other layout makers!!!

  • i'm just glad to be a part of SOMETHING...

  • How do you get the old xanga back?

  • CHANGE THE IMBOX IN MESSAGIN BACK TO THE WAY IT USED TO PLEAE
    its soo uglyyyy now and i have heard lots of complaints

    THANKYOU

  • i think the "true badge" concept is a good idea; I haven't earned my badge yet but from the moment i saw one, i wanted one

    i really like the idea of the ranking badges like forums use.  senior probably isn't a word i'd choose for the highest rank.  but like others have said, it's just a word.

    ya'll are doing great!  i love xanga!!

  • Interesting...

  • I personally don't think it's your job or place to LABEL anyone. I know a lot of people, myself included who were offended by not making Xanga's 'cut' I post protected, but I've been a diehard Xanga fan and supporter for nearly seven years. Your TRUE thing almost made me walk away ... then I remembered the reason I'm here. For the friends I've met and not your judgement.

  • I really have to say that I really, really hate the changes you've all been making around on xanga. They're annoying and they're ruining my experience of Xanga as a whole, and I am not the only one to feel this way.
    The new startpage, for example, is useful, yes, but it's irritating because it doesn't look liek my site, it looks like a boring livejournal or something. Don't even get me started on the "themes" functions [although I suppose I can live with those as long as you don't remove the old layouts]! And the latest adition to the blogring pages!? The recent update thing? 
    I don't see the point at all.

    Leave Xanga as it is! We like it exactly because it's NOT Myspace or Livejournal.

    -Linda

  • how lovely :)
    &hearts;

  • Sorry I'm ranting about this but, Me and hundreds of other people HATE how you've changed xanga, And want it back the other way, If you don't put it back, I'm making a petetion.

  • Sorry I'm ranting about this but, Me and hundreds of other people HATE how you've changed xanga, And want it back the other way, If you don't put it back, I'm making a petetion.

  • Sorry I'm ranting about this but, Me and hundreds of other people HATE how you've changed xanga, And want it back the other way, If you don't put it back, I'm making a petetion.

  • Sorry I'm ranting about this but, Me and hundreds of other people HATE how you've changed xanga, And want it back the other way, If you don't put it back, I'm making a petetion.

  • Do your thing, i love it!

  • Option number two would work as long as someone still monitored the sites that each badge went to.  The last thing we want is for someone to make "filler" posts and/or comments just so they can have a certain badge.

    Also, is there any word on whether we can hide the badges publicly?  I know it was mentioned previously, but I haven't read anything since then.  Am I just blind or are you still working on it?

    I personally would advise against using the word "addict" as it has a negative connotation.  Maybe "TRUE" doesn't work for some people, but I think "addict" would be much more controversial.  You're more like a therapy than a drug to a lot of users anyway.  Something like "active" is a better alternative, but ultimately, I think you guys can come up with an even more creative idea.

  • I like the idea of "true". I have juggled the idea of jumping to some other form of blogging, but I always stay true to Xanga (you all keep it simple). It's good to see that my 3+ years of almost daily posting is being recognized.

  • I kinda like Xanga Nut...or Addict....or Freak.... Or something....I don't really care either way. I'll take whatever label you've got because it's an addiction that I have.

    Proud Member of Xangaholics Anonymous... or not so anonymous.

  • I wonder if xangaholic has been suggested yet =P

  • donka.    if I can't be a featured blog, then let it be true.  it's like recognizing the underdog/cat/mouse

  • people are just being dramattic. I dont want some stupid "sign" next my name. people always want to ruin something. whiners! if you want to be considered a TRUE member, then POST more and stop whining!

    ugh.

    xo

  • With the TRUE label, that shows people that I'm a Xangan through and through.

  • @JoannaxDavis -

    Xanga Team,  If I Were You,  I Wouldnt Change Anything Back,   And IP Ban Joanna >.>

    But Thats Jus My Opinion Cause I Hate Threats...

  • You know.... I like the idea of having several badges, where you could work your way up... but I do NOT like their idea of the best, longest, most devoted blogger being "SENIOR"... makes us sound old. And maybe I am old, but I don't like being labeled as such. :)

  • Cant Please everyone, I see nothing wrong with the True although I guess it could be because I have one lol.

  • Personally, I'd just like a "False" badge. Screw "True".

  • I like #1 and #2.

  • I don't see anything wrong with the name true.  However, maybe the #2 idea could smooth over the waves from other members who feel left out.  But, then again, keeping it the way it is will only encourage people to be more active!
    You'll never be able to please everyone... so just go with what feels right =)

  • Hey, it's just not a big deal. The true thing is fine, people get so worked up. I don't use half the new crap that comes along, label me complacent. It's another way of saying "satisfied".

  • I think I should get a MILF badge, too!

  • From what I have read in most of the comments here, people like the concept, but don't particularly like the name.  As an alternative, might I suggest "Spirit?"  As in, these people have the Spirit Of Xanga.

  • Personally I like 'Xanga Addict'. It's not the most original idea, but people would get it more than having 'TRUE' stapled to someone's xanga, you know?

    But ohh, ranks. Yes i think people would love that. :] Maybe the team could make up a sort of demo, trail and error sort of thing, and wait for feedback?
    The only think with ranks though, is it might cause some division among the less mature population of xanga... haha.

  • Ooo #2 sounds cool; but really, I'm alright with the title TRUE.

    It may sound biased since I am a (proud) TRUE badge wearer, but I only ever thought of the name as meaning loyal - not discriminatory.

    :-S

    Some people are just dramaholics.

  • I think it is a good idea to award the users who have been on Xanga for a long time. It gives the satisfaction of seniority. But of course, there will always be drama when it comes to labels.

  • I LOVE the badges, and I do NOT like option 2.  Some people post tons of little nonsense posts (many posts per day), every single day.  I do NOT think status should ever be based on the amount of posts of their own that one makes.  I often only post every few days--but I do spend much time on here every day visiting my friends and commenting on their posts.

  • I like being 'true'.  I think it's nice validation for being dedicated to xanga and it doesn't require any sort of popularity contest.  I also like the name you stuck w/.

  • I think we should all calm down.
    :D
    Nobody is gonna cry cause they didn't receive some silly badge on a blog site.

  • To be honest, I really like the TRUE program.  To me, I'd think it would make people want to use the site more, so they could earn their TRUE badges.  Personally, I love seeing it by my name.  I like knowing that you can now buy premium with credits, because that makes me just want to comment, comment to earn those credits.  For a while, my credits seemed to be stuck on a number, but now that they are working, I'm very happy.  :)

  • So, what is worth more towards a TRUE badge: commenting on other people's blogs, or posting your own?

  • So I've thought about it for a while and I think you guys should implement a system like deviantart.. There, each user signs up and is able to put what kind of "deviant" they are. You can be a newb, critic, supporter, addict, wise ass, old fart, gift giver, etc..

    So for xanga there should be medals or badges like: xanga newb, x. addict, x. regular, old school xanga, x. intellectual, x. slacker, x. photo poster, TRUE, etc..

    But make it so only some users, say those under 20 posts or comments can only use newb. Then as you participate, by commenting, posting photos, blogs, videos, pulsing,  you earn different badges and you can choose to display only 1 or none at all in unison with the LIFETIME badge. And there should be a few badges that everyone can pick, fun ones like xanga clown. Or maybe even have a few exclusive badges for "purchase" with credits. Iono.. have fun w/ it. =D

    Anyways, keep up the good work!

  • No matter what you do, somebody will be unhappy with it.

  • I like to pulse a lot.  Do we get credit for blogging on pulse?

  • i always wondered why i all of a sudden had the TRUE Lable next to my name after leaving comments! haha i dont mind it :)

  • I like #2 idea - should also create badges for those who blog daily or weekly.... encourage those to xanga more often and jot those thoughts down. 

  • I like 1b. choosing something that doesn't have a name is bound to offend less people and this is easily accomplished by using an image instead of a word .  You could actually combine this with idea number 2 and have a series of badges that would just be images.  If a person is really on Xanga that much and posting and reading entries, they would eventually come to know what each image "badge" meant.  Being a person who hasn't been deemed "TRUE" yet, it is kind of frustrating seeing people that have been around less than me "earn" this designation.

  • Stick with the name "True". Hey it's like that Bucky Covington song.... "Not everyone made the team when they tried... we got disappointed but that was alright... we turned out alright..."

    I was never in the "popular group" in high school and I turned out reasonably *twitch twitch* well-adjusted *twitch twitch*

    If I'm voted a TRUE member, that'll be great... I love Xanga... Whether TRUE or not, I'm a Xanga ADDICT... i'm a Xanga FREAK.... so if you decide to give me the TRUE label, so much the better... but If I don't get picked for the team, I'm reasonably sure the sun will still rise tomorrow. It's a cool thing, but people really need to learn not to take everything so personally. If you get the mark you get it... if you don't, oh well! Guess you're just not as addicted as the rest of us! LOL ;)

  • I like it =]

  • I am not a "True" Xangan, but to be honest I can't say I have much feeling towads the name one way or another.  It is like the "Life" tag I have, it doesnt mean that others arent committed to Xanga to life, it just means I have lifetime premium (a gift).  I don't feel bad seeing the true tag...after all, I know it doesnt mean that I am not a "True" Xangan, it just means that right now with my life (being a full time college student) I don't have as much time to be active on Xanga as others.  That said...I have several Xanga friends who feel really bad about not being true, so I can see the wisdom in changing the name.

    I like choice two myself.  I think that is a cool idea, not just because no one would feel left out, but it would be interesting to see where everyone stands, and whether a person is a Xangan newbie or a regular veteran.  I used to be on another Weblog site that did something similiar to that, and it seemed to work quite well.

    Whether or not you change the name...I will contiue to LOVE Xanga!

    Alisha

  • I met my husband on Xanga in '04... can I get a True lable? (PS: OK, maybe he deserves one, too... but you should also tell him he can't keep it unless he updates more often ).

  • I like the idea of an ADDICT badge.  Maybe.  It's funny.  :)

  • people who haven't earned it are trying to cry their way into "earning" it

    keep it true.

  • true is good with me.

  • Nudia's right... my bad, it's "only" been 3 years since I started my Xanga... so I guess my 3 years of posts and comments haven't been good enough to "earn" any props? I still love my xanga... but, why be hating on people, it's not like I hurt anyone by *asking*?

  • Lalalalala

    I still can't believe you added me to the True Badge program. I do have a post dedicated to this, so if you want to know what I think, just read my blog entitled "Hong Kong is raping my Xanga"

  • I don't mind the "true" badge name but the "die hard" sounds cool too. I so wanna become a True member though >< 

  • I like the first 2 genre's of changes.  Thanks for listening to your community and "TRUly" representing your community and being a voice for and with your people.

  • I like the second option...

  • yes.

  • It is very unique.

    Daniel

    http://danielepl.blogspot.com

  • thx

  • I got subscribed to by True and was excited about being "True". And, then I got a big fat nothing. What's the deal? Where's my "stinkin' badges"? So bummed... (even the smiley is bummed...just look at him *sigh*).

  • It isn't special anymore. People just write about nothing these days daily and get it...

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