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Posted by: bajmurray Feb 27 2012, 09:22 PM

OK folks.

I keep seeing posts about what's wrong with TCC. I can't say that I disagree with many of the comments.

However, what I'd like to see is some suggestions about how to make things better.

I'll start off with a couple:

Bring back the trade-a-thon.

Pack pull of the month.

Let's hear what you have to say!

Posted by: northicehero99 Feb 27 2012, 09:38 PM

Contests never hurt, but it would be better if we could get some manufacturer sponsored contests.

Email blasts of things going on - hot topics?

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Feb 28 2012, 08:03 AM

How about northicehero99 back on the team?

Posted by: RGBII Feb 28 2012, 12:22 PM

Touché

Collect Hard!,
RGBII

Posted by: northicehero99 Feb 28 2012, 12:26 PM

That guys been Kafka'd!

Posted by: mjda Mar 4 2012, 03:40 PM

The biggest suggestion I can think of would be to find out what is causing the viruses to keep coming back, and fix that first. That seems to be one of the biggest things that contributed to pushing members away. Even members who didn't actually get the virus could have grown weary of returning when so many others were complaining of it.

Also, what happened to the TCC Awards? That was always a big thing and it seems like it was just bypassed this year. Maybe because the team thought it wouldn't have been big enough? Well, in my opinion, that's no reason to have put it off. Those of us who are still here would have participated, and maybe (just maybe) someone who just checks back often might have got involved with it too. This always gave members something to look forward to, as in a little recognition, or exposure, for their collections that they may not have gotten otherwise.

Brian, bringing back the pack pull of the month is a great idea! It gives those who don't currently post their pack pulls/box breaks anymore a reason to maybe come back and do just that! There needs to be a reason for someone to come here and post, and this might help that exact thing. Heck, it sure ain't gonna hurt!

Updating the front page might be a good idea too. That's the first thing that potential new members see when they come to TCC, and at the top of that page is a MoTM announcement that hasn't been updated since January 2011. They might also notice that the latest entry in "Hobby News and Headlines" is from 2006, and the latest product review is 2009 Classics!! I'm not saying that the entire site needs an update, or a new theme. This one has worked for so long, there's no reason it still won't. What it needs, however, is some fresh content added to it.

I'm sure I could go on and on, but these are the main points that crossed my mind first.

Posted by: finestkind Mar 4 2012, 06:55 PM

Yes, Yes.


I can bribe him with jelly beans.

Posted by: beanschat Mar 4 2012, 08:38 PM

I HATE getting the pop up about Norton when I come to this site....I'm stupid though and do keep coming on...but not as often as I would.

TCC WAS on the right track with the checklist...that's why I do more on another site anymore...it has helped me with some MONSTER trades..

I've thought about doing a Dollar Daze thing again.

But, that virus issue has to be resolved. If people are afraid to come...they won't, kind of like having the best restaurant in the hood...

Posted by: bajmurray Mar 4 2012, 08:53 PM

And yet, not everyone gets the problem.

I'm running Internet Explorer with Norton, and have NEVER gotten a warning or had any issues.

We need to narrow down what's causing the problem and who is vulnerable.

Posted by: RGBII Mar 4 2012, 08:59 PM

I have two "gurus" running the the same
operating systems, browsers and anti-virus/malware
software as the few that have had the same
warnings/problems appear.

They are both professionals and it is costing me
a tidy sum.

They have both attempted to sign on our site for
the past three days in an effort to recreate the
warning. They have had no success at this point in time.

Collect Hard!,
RGBII

Posted by: finestkind Mar 4 2012, 09:33 PM

I have the same. And don't have any issues pop up.

Posted by: dualshock Mar 4 2012, 10:39 PM

I work in the IT department of a medium sized college. I'll test out the site on different OS's and browsers there and let you guys know my findings (if any).

Posted by: northicehero99 Mar 4 2012, 10:48 PM

I don't get any warnings about a virus, and I am using Xfinity with Kapersky antivirus. I do notice however on another computer that I get a pop-up about an add-on trying to run, but I never add it. Not sure if that is virus related.

Posted by: beanschat Mar 4 2012, 11:19 PM

I suspect that it is within one of the ads as I don't get it everytime. The last time I got it was 8:39 PM CST tonight, even after my latest Norton update. Here is the information on it:

Name: Web Attack:Malicious Toolkit Website 9
Attacking Computer 129.121.51.246,80 ( a separate attack was 129.121.51.246/Home/Index.php)
Source Address: 129.121.51.246
Traffic Description: TCP,www-http

reported by Norton Antivirus using Internet Explorer 8

Posted by: urbanmonk Mar 5 2012, 12:11 AM

I'm running Firefox and a ad-blocker add on and have never seen it, Windows 7 with Norton.

Posted by: 5toosweet Mar 5 2012, 12:01 PM

Honestly, I never see the home page cause I have it setup to go right to the forums. But a facelift would be helpful. New members or guests would view TCC as a ghost town if they still see those old articles.

Posted by: mjda Mar 5 2012, 05:40 PM

Well, since that should be in fairly good hands then, maybe the team could concentrate on some other suggestions here?

Posted by: captkirk42 Mar 6 2012, 02:23 PM

Ditto on most of what Dwight said, I don't have Norton but I run Firefox with Adblock Plus at home and at work and Never seen the virus warning.

And Ditto what 5toosweet said about having it automatically go to the forums. The only time I go to the home page now is after I have logged out of the site at work upon my next visit. Again no virus warning.

As someone else said the team needs to know WHO has gotten the warnings and virus and what system, software etc they are running or were running when they came across the warning. Maybe there should be thread somewhere or a new forum section for "Site Issues and problems". Members could post a message in that section about any issues they have and then the appropriate team "staff" check things out (ie contact various experts/gurus about the issue(s))

Someone mentioned something about "contests/prizes" along those lines there could a regular site sponsored contest/give-away. The prizes would come from member donations. That would require a team member to be the official "recipient" of the prizes and keep track of the contests. An incentive for members to send donations could be an automatic entry into the next official contest.

Posted by: captkirk42 Mar 7 2012, 10:41 AM

Earlier today about a half hour ago I was getting a MYSQL Server error. I wonder is that what these other people have gotten?



The error says this:


Warning: mysql_connect() [function.mysql-connect]: Can't connect to local MySQL server through socket '/var/lib/mysql/mysql.sock' (2) in /home/tcc/public_html/forums/ips_kernel/class_db_mysql.php on line 120


There appears to be an error with the database.
You can try to refresh the page by clicking here.

Error Returned
mySQL error: Can't connect to local MySQL server through socket '/var/lib/mysql/mysql.sock' (2) mySQL error code: Date: Wednesday 07th 2012f March 2012 10:10:19 AM

We apologise for any inconvenience



Clicking the "here" to refresh only refreshed the error page didn't take you to TCC.

Forgive me if this should have been posted elsewhere, but this would be a good example of the type of "Help me I got an error" trouble messages that could be posted to a "Help" section or a "site issues" sub-forum.

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 7 2012, 10:43 AM

It appears that it was a Server - Database error of some kind.

Richard submitted a ticket, so hopefully he will provide the details of what happened.

It was NOT a virus.....

Posted by: captkirk42 Mar 7 2012, 12:02 PM

Thanks. I didn't think it was a virus but seeing as I haven't experience what the others have been talking about I thought maybe they were just seeing a DB error., or the site was down for a few minutes, but that was not the case.

I probably just had one of those quirky hiccuping bugs.

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 7 2012, 12:18 PM

Sorry if I confused. The site was down for several hours due to server/database stuff. bob_TCC had it resolved.

Just wanted to make real clear to everyone that it wasn't due to a virus. Also, there was a file that was modified, that gave the indication of virus, but was also fixed.

Posted by: captkirk42 Mar 7 2012, 12:31 PM

Ah I must have stumbled on that modified file while the fix was in-process.

BTW how is the "ghost in the machine" Mr. Bob_TCC anyway?

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 7 2012, 12:34 PM

He stated that all is well.

Posted by: northicehero99 Mar 7 2012, 12:38 PM

So he does exist?? JK.

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 7 2012, 12:42 PM

Yep, just like Santa...

Posted by: msw_sportscards Mar 9 2012, 12:48 PM

Here's a suggestion...don't boot your most active members and top traders just because there's one CZT member they don't get along with. That might keep site activity up there.

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 9 2012, 12:56 PM

Marc,

Beyond popular belief, no one CZT member can or will boot a member by themselves....we presently confer regularly on such decisions and decisions to remove a member from our community is not taken lightly. The member must act in such an agregious fashion to be removed and generally is given ample chances to remain a member. In the end, it is of there own doing or failure to comply.

I ask and do not expect this topic to become a debate in this thread, just felt it pertinent to respond accordingly. If you wish to further the dialogue, please send me a PM.

Bob

Posted by: rtsjr Mar 9 2012, 01:10 PM

hate to say one reason i really dont come on here much anymore is boring. seems only the same few people are making trades each month.
almost 3 years trader of the month in a row last few months was pulling teeth to get trades. went from 30 to 40 a month to 15 to 20 all with same people. think have zero pending trades a first here!!!!




trade a thon was a great contest as a former winner great idea!!!!
snake thread seems to have died and that was always having something in it new, fantasy sports leagues are zero here last few years.

love to be active here again if can get more members involved

Posted by: msw_sportscards Mar 9 2012, 01:40 PM

Bob,

Posted it here because it said suggestions were needed. Whether or not it is decided by one or many, when one of the CZT is constantly harassing another member for sometimes annoying but seemingly harmless behavior until it provokes said "egregious behavior", it's a problem. Last thing I'll say on the subject.

Next suggestion, don't try to push problems over to PM when valid points which potentially affect all members are made.

Comrade Marc

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 9 2012, 02:16 PM

Your opinion is noted. The reason, I suggest PM conversations is not to avoid valid points. But, to allow a the conversation to be more casual and may be directed towards other members. I offer that for anonymity sake. And having open discussions on banned or restricted members, isn't appropriate for everyone. I.E. a persons business, should remain their business, when disciplinary actions are take, etc....

My issues with you, stay between you and I (as an example). I am not going to discuss them openly in a thread. That is the point of taking a conversation to a PM.

So, everyone understands, Marc and I have no issues....

Posted by: beanschat Mar 9 2012, 02:36 PM

alright....let me see if I can get something going that will generate a little interest!!

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Mar 9 2012, 03:12 PM

Nice job, Brian. Thank you!


Here it is folks.....http://www.tradingcardcentral.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=308975&hl=

Posted by: mjda Apr 25 2012, 04:44 PM

One thing that might not be a bad idea is to have a few of the active CZT frequent these suggestion threads and respond to some of the serious suggestions.

Take this thread, for instance. It was created by a CZT member, so it looks official. It did get a few replies, with one or two decent suggestions. However, the only suggestion that has been replied to by any member of the CZT has been the suggestion to get rid of the virus, that turned out to not even be a virus.

Even if the response is just "good idea" or "we'll discuss that one further", at least it would be something. I feel like it would go a long way with the members who do want to help breath life back into this place if the CZT would interact with them and their ideas. At least those members would know that there are at least a few people who actually can make things happen around here listening to their input, which was actually asked for.

Posted by: Zimbow Apr 25 2012, 08:25 PM

Trader and member of the month awards??

Posted by: mjda Apr 25 2012, 08:57 PM

I believe they've been doing member of the month awards already for the last few months.

Posted by: bigalexx Apr 26 2012, 06:44 PM

That is the biggest reason that alot of older member either left the site or were provoked into doing something that resulted in a ban. I think it had a much bigger effect than most assume.

I think updating the front page is also a must. When the most recent "Hobby News and Headlines" are from 2006, and the most recent "Featured Reviews" are from 2009, it is a major turnoff to potential new members. This is something that needs to be updated.

I don't think the lack of trades is an issue at this point. The lack of new members, which means that their is a smaller "inventory stream" and no new faces to trade with is why there is a lack of trading. Once the recruiting issues are fixed, so will the trading problem.

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 Apr 27 2012, 08:52 AM

I know when I had more time and was part of the TEAM we were working on redoing the site structure.

A more modern and updated theme.

I completely understand about the team members doing this for free and remember how much time was spent just dealing with "site business" everyday.

I was just inquiring on status.

I would say at a minimum go into teh code for now and REMOVE the member of the month headline from the spash page. Or change the verbage to just way something like " We do Member of Month here at TCC" or something. or even a coming soon. Something that keeps folks from logging in the first time and seeing a post from over a year ago.

I will drum some more stuff up and get back to the rest of you.

Adam

Posted by: mjda Apr 27 2012, 08:59 AM

I definitely don't think the site needs a complete redesign, like some might suggest. This design has been working for a number of years now. It does, however, need to be kept updated. It just doesn't look good at all for it not to be.

Also, I know what you mean about the volunteer team, but at the same time this is exactly what they all chose to volunteer to do. If they didn't want to do it, they could simply say no. I don't believe there are any members of the team who truly believe they were asked to join the team so that they can just "wear the title".

Posted by: msw_sportscards Apr 27 2012, 09:16 AM

Wow, someone else sees it and gets it. You're dang right it had a big effect. If I remember correctly, Bob posted in a time long ago and far away that his vision was to unify the trading card community. It seems clear that in his absence that vision has been lost.

Posted by: msw_sportscards Apr 27 2012, 09:39 AM

Suggestions
1. Update the main page- it's already been said by numerous people, but I'll reiterate. If you don't have enough people to get the job done, recruit more. I'm sure there are still a few members here who care enough to help out.

2. For the members: Referrals, referrals, referrals. Talk to people at your LCS (if you have one); employees and customers alike. Get the word out. If you frequent other trading card sites or even ebay, GET THE WORD OUT.

3. For the members: Be active on the site. Help out where you can. Create interesting threads. Participate in other members' threads.

4. For the CZT: Provide an atmosphere that makes people want to come here and return. Unless someone is blatantly exploiting TCC or promoting an unsafe or abusive environment for the site, get out of our way and let us interact. Some of us do realize and appreciate how much you do. For those who don't, I'm sure there are a few CZT members who will gladly remind them. On the other hand, doing a lot for the site, doesn't make you God. There are and have been several members without the CZT title who have also done a lot for the site. Many of those members are now gone for one reason or another. Please, keep in mind that TCC is a service to its members; members who have many options and choose to come here.

5. If you don't want suggestions, then remove the suggestions forum.

Posted by: mjda Apr 27 2012, 09:42 AM

Marc, very well written post. I agree completely with points 1-3.

Posted by: Krusin Apr 27 2012, 10:14 AM

Random thoughts.

I've had NO virus warnings in months.

I don't think there's anything physicaly wrong with the site at the moment.

The ads on the side bar recently have been advertising another Trade Site, one I hadn't heard of before it popped up. If I were the owner I wouldn't like that.

If there's a way to filter which Sub Fourms posts show when you "View New Posts" that would be great i.m.o. . Sometimes the 1st 2 pages are posts of Case Break sales, while these are important to the participants do we all need to see them? Not a big deal either way.

The Home page being out of date is not good i.m.o. Curently showing member of the month for Jan 2011, box reviews for 2009, Hobby headlines from 2006. Any newbies happening on the site would be lead to belive the site is no longer active and move on before checking out what's happening today. Either make the home page generic or keep it up to date.

As an radio ad (for a gun & knife show) here says every month, "Tell a buddy, bring a friend".

Add a TCC link in your My E-Bay page, there's tons of collectors out there that have never been on a trading card site, I meet them monthly at card shows.

I be back with more if I think of any.

Posted by: mjda Apr 27 2012, 10:25 AM

As it turns out, there was never a virus to begin with. According to Bob, who was speaking from Bob , it was faulty coding that presented itself as a virus. Fortunately, it was never anything that could harm anyone's computer.




The ads on the sidebar are put there by an advertising company, or companies. I believe only the owner has the ability to remove those.



I agree completely, with both statements. Believe me, if I had anyone I could tell, or bring, to TCC I would do just that. Unfortunately, I never get the opportunity to attend any card shows and the closest LCS is 50 miles away (I've never been there either ). Additionally, the only people I know who collect cards are right here on TCC.

Posted by: bajmurray Apr 27 2012, 10:40 AM

It's good to see the discussion and suggestions taking place in this thread. This is the kind of stuff we need to see more of here.

However, I'd like to make the following comments:

1) It's one thing to make suggestions. It's quite another to try to do something to improve the site. Kudos to msw_sportscards to using the "Chain" thread to help drum up new members. Also, special recognition to Adamsharpe for bringing back the "trade-a-thon".

2) It's easy to blame volunteers for making decisions you don't like. The site has pretty high standards that were set by the founder, and the team is trying very hard to live up to them. As the CZT member who has been on the team the shortest amount of time, you should see the kind of junk we have to deal with that never makes the main forums. (Logging on at 6 am one morning and having to spend an hour deleting pictures of an overrated "singer" flipping the bird in multiple threads is no fun, let me tell you! )

3) If you have an idea you'd like to try but aren't sure if it's appropriate, feel free to PM a CZT member. Trust me, that's the kind of stuff we love dealing with!

4) On the other hand, sending a PM saying "Why don' t you do such-and-such?" isn't appreciated. If you think it's a good idea, go do it! (see item number 1)

5) Lighten up people! This hobby is supposed to be fun!

Thanks for reading. I personally appreciate every one of you! You guys (& girls) have made this site enjoyable!

Posted by: mjda Apr 27 2012, 11:13 AM

I was with you until this line. There are actually a lot of ideas that people could come up with that they might not have time for. So, those suggestions are shared so that someone with time might take it and run.

Then there are a few suggestions that simply cannot be carried out by any member. Such as the suggestion about updating the front page, which seems to be the biggest suggestion in this particular thread. This is something only a few members of the team can even do.

Here is a list of the suggestion that I have mentioned, or agreed should be done, over the last month and the reasons why I simply didn't just carry them out myself.

1. Pack Pull of The Month - This is going to be a fairly big undertaking. One that will require a great deal of dedication. One that I certainly do not have time for, on my own. However, I did send a team member a PM letting them know that if they were to start this back up again that I would help them as much as I possibly could. I didn't receive a reply to that PM.

2. Fix the Virus - Nothing I could have done about this, even if it did turn out to be a real virus. Luckily, it wasn't.

3. Do the TCC Awards - This is one of those that I feel like should be handled by the team, simply so it is "official". Also, it has always been handled by the team, probably for that very reason.

4. Update the Home Page - Obviously, this is not something that I have the ability to do.

5. Update the Favorite Team Logos - Again, not something I can do. I did, however, offer to make all of the updated icons if needed. I didn't receive a single reply.

Posted by: msw_sportscards Apr 27 2012, 11:16 AM

1) Kudos aren't necessary, but your intent is well-received. We'll receive our rewards when the site returns to its former status and beyond.

4) I can peronally attest that this isn't always suitable and one should be careful to give such advice when apparently all involved clearly do not feel the same way on the matter and seek to punish those who act on this advice.

5) Amen to that, brother.

Posted by: ffman Apr 27 2012, 11:39 AM

The main page isn't a huge problem for me; most people never see it (I go directly to www.tradingcardcentral.com/forums).

For #4: yes, some CZT members are "strict", but that's mainly when needed due to certain problem members (NOT directed at msw or mjda) who simply can't grasp certain concepts in regards to transactions, breaking the rules, etc. If you think of a genuinely good idea and try to act on it, you won't be "punished" for it.

I agree that I would like to see the Team as a whole be more active in general - but I'm just as much to blame as anyone else (my activity level has significantly dropped over the last year or two). To get this forum back to where it once was it is going to take a group effort from the CZT and regular members alike.

Posted by: northicehero99 Apr 27 2012, 11:56 AM

Marc, I agree with suggestions 1-3. As for this point, I think the CZT do everything in their power to make TCC a place people want to come to. They treat members fairly, give second chances, walk new people through rules or how something works, etc. I don't think any of the current CZT here have a "God" complex, these are hard working individuals that do a lot for the site, put up with a lot of petty stupid crud, and the only reward they get is the enjoyment of knowing they are trying to help this community and be a part of it. They were selected specifically because of how they interacted on the site and how much of a positive service they provided here. I worked with most of the team members and I can tell you they work hard at trying to make TCC a place where people want to come.

Marc, on a side note I am disappointed that we constantly have this suggestion referring to the CZT as an issue. If your last sentence is correct in number 4, and as it appears to me that you have an issue with the CZT here, then why do you "choose" to come here? I am not sure what your true intentions are? I have seen your posts/contests for your new site to host group breaks, so that makes me believe you have no true interest in TCC other than to use it as a way to bolster your site? This is my opinion, and I hope I am wrong, but I would like this topic to move past criticizing the CZT and try to focus on real ways to help TCC and it's members. I like coming here and have no problems with anyone here, but I would like to see things improve in terms of new members and more activity out of the ones here.

Posted by: dualshock Apr 27 2012, 12:10 PM

I spend a lot of time on eBay and took your suggestion of adding a link back to TCC on my profile page. Never thought of it until I read this thread, so good idea.

Posted by: 5toosweet Apr 27 2012, 01:19 PM

I was promoting TCC at the card show I organized and got a few to look into it. It got me thinking.....what if we sent out flyers promoting the site to other show promoters in exchange for advertising their show on TCC?

Posted by: msw_sportscards Apr 27 2012, 01:24 PM

Yes, Brian, the past 5+ years have been nothing but one giant plan to take over the world. I msut admit that I hatched this plot while at SCS, but never got the chance to implement it.

Posted by: 5toosweet Apr 27 2012, 01:29 PM

We could also do craigslist.


While brain storming the card show idea maybe we should organize a mob of TCCers to hit the National and promote the site. At my show I had one of the BO mods setup at my show and he wore the BO shirt and painted his handle on the back. If we can get the shirts still maybe they could do the same at the National.

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 27 2012, 05:45 PM

There are some really good ideas being thrown out on the table, and some motivated folks taking the lead...however, will the suggestions be addressed? It doesnt seem as if they are, ie...updating the front page? Thank you.

Posted by: mjda Apr 27 2012, 05:49 PM

This is definitely the question of the thread.

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 27 2012, 05:53 PM

Also, I posted this in another thread...but felt it was relevent to repost....

"
Im still here, but I have to admit my attendance is dwindlng as well. However, I always find myself coming back because of the closeness of the TCC community. I have seen how traders have rallied around peers who have suffered tragic life events, and have also watched as we all celebrated happy moments such as children being born, moves, promotions, etc...

However, we need to do something to bring up the volume of members. In any marketing strategy, we have to find what the competitors are doing and see what is working for them. We can talk about the economy, rising gas prices, and other social turbulence; however, other sites seem to be unaffected. Immediately, I can think of two of these such sites that are still very active despite these variables that have "impacted' us.

I have always been taught to not only raise questions, but propose solutions as well.
-I think we need to market TCC. I was invited to this group when I was just poking around in some yahoo forums? It was that easy.
-Put our name out there in card shows. I went to a recent card show and a dealer asked if I deal with --------.com? I told him I did and gave him my handle, but also invited him to TCC. His response, "Never heard of it."
-Finally, we need to update our home page...I am not bashing our CZT at all. They do a great job, considering they are a volunteer force and Thanks should be given. However, when someone visits and the first thing they see is a Trader of the Month and it is from Jan 11, it doesnt show them the level of quality that we as traders are. I am a computer idiot, but am willing to help.

All and all, TCC will always be my hobby home. Now-who wants about 20K commons....lol....um...seriously, who wants em...lol"

Posted by: bajmurray Apr 27 2012, 05:55 PM

I offer 5 bucks, PayPal, delivered!

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 27 2012, 06:08 PM

hmmmmm....nahhhhhh

Posted by: redwing40 Apr 27 2012, 06:39 PM

Let's see, I posted a Contest on TCCs home page on Facebook for the 300 likes, wins a Card, had 9 likes going, and posted everyday, till I got off FB, shame, thought it was good Idea!

Posted a possible Group Submission to BGS for cards to get Graded, one response, NO!

Jackson Mi show, hung flyers every where I could, to bad I had to work, but also linked us on Craigslist at one point to get members coming here to TCC, and on other Trading sites as well, As a Newbie, I try! And will keep trying!

Think I came here reading all the post that have been made, members leaving , I'm here and been here a year, been at Sports Card Forum since 2008, 700 post, first year there still trying to reach my 20th trade, took till 2012 to reach my 114 at SCF, look at my post and trades here, I'm very happy with the site, need more kicking in here, just my opinion!

If the Team needs any recruiting, put me on that list, would love to help anyway I could.

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 Apr 27 2012, 10:48 PM

I hear what you are saying brotha. Issue is, if you want to recruit "new blood" and show them what TCC is about this is exactly the first page they see. I would think most people coming to check out the site for the first would be at the main page first. But that is just my guess.

Adam

Posted by: mjda Apr 28 2012, 10:39 AM

Let me give you some information, including some stats from Google Analytics data. This data is from the last 30 days.

/forums/index.php received 11,132 unique page views. That means, 11,132 different people viewed that page within the last 30 days.

/index.php received 7,657 unique page views.

That means that for every 4 people that view the forum home page, there are almost 3 people viewing the main home page. I would hardly consider that to be a small number.

Here's another bit of information for you. Out of the top 20 pages viewed (uniques) on TCC, overall, 11 of those pages have nothing to do with the forums.

Taking the total number of unique page views from those same top 20 pages viewed, we also get these statistics. The forum pages received a total of 21,420 unique page views, while those "other pages" received a total of 27,366 unique page views.

Looking at these stats, I would say that TCC's "other pages" are absolutely just as important as, if not more so than, the forums.

Regardless of what anyone thinks of these other pages, including the home page, these stats cannot be argued with. It is clear that a LOT of people look at the home page every month.

Posted by: Zimbow Apr 28 2012, 11:48 AM

Noticed when I'm at work and our computers had just been wiped clean of memory. I got on TCC using tradingcardcentral.com. Everytime I use that link it automatically brings me to home page, then I have to navigate to the forums. Its not just 9/10 times, its 10/10 times I view homepage first.

Posted by: mjda May 3 2012, 05:18 PM

Are any of the suggestions that were mentioned here being talked about, thrown out, or worked on?

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 May 7 2012, 10:21 PM

Here is an update from me I thought might be considered interesting.

So for years now, when I was part of the team and even now as busy guy, I have always tried to promote TCC. Team members can look back in the threads and find all the pushing,. I spread the word at shows, the fliers, my Ebay etc.. Even did some stuff on social networking sites. I say all that to mention this...

Five people I met and talked to about TCC decided to come and check out the site based on me selling it as a family environment, the quality traders here etc...

My feedback from the folks:

All five went to the main page first (As most people do) and 4 said, "do they still do MOM there?, Why is the splash pages year old?, Why have reviews for products a decade old? January 2011 really?The other just said, WOW that looks way to "busy" to keep updated"

Three guys turned around and left arguing that if they can't keep the main page current then what can I expect inside

One guy ventured in a bit and looked at the trading sections and said it was not active enough for his taste.

the other guy said he might sign up just based on my opinion.

The overriding comment is that there are so many options out there why should I give it a try. Basically saying, it might be great but it was all about first impressions to them.

I just wanted you to know what some of the first timers are saying. these are passionate collectors who love the hobby.

Is being a team member a hard job? Sure it absolutely takes time. I was a volunteer and did it but had to relinquish because of other priorities. So I am not saying you guys aren't trying. But the facts are the facts.

Now if everyone is happy with the way it is and wants to keep it this way and that is the popular decision then fine but I just want to throw it all out there.

Everyone talks about druming activity back up and I agree that would be great but if you want to then some changes need to happen.

Current members:
Incentitive either through contest or whatever? I will try and drum a contest myself.

Email blast about things going on around TCC. Everyone plugged an email in so use it.

Maybe a simple monthly newletter. It can be canned or scripted to update.
Stuff like:

Look who is trading? XXXXXXXX
Did you see who added some sweet stuff to their PC this month? XXXXXXX
Did you hear? Check out this hoby news...XXXXXXXX


Here is a good site that helps you script it
http://www.2createawebsite.com/enhance/create-newsletter.html

New member:

Active members ask to put up flier like the one I did in my B&M. Ask the shops to come and check it out.

Add it to your EBAY sigs if you care.

Facebook about it. I have been posting in social media on sites like UD, Panini, Topps etc where collectors go to get info. Heck tweet about stuff going on here.

Please please.. if you cannot update the main page go in the code and remove the box break link and delete the MOM splash. Les it better if what is there is very old. First impressions are key and ours is not good.

Attached is my draft shot of a more current TCC main page:
More current two column format.
Less is more.
Just a starting point. Not nearly done just a brainstorm session.

In the forums slide the trading section up. Should be a focal point and not have to scoll to it IMHO. That is just a flipping inside the rule set.

I will try and build a base idea of a forum site either in photoshop or maybe on a free hosting site to test out some ideas when I have time. I will call it like Adams site or something goofy to get a blueprint.

My thought here is like I have in my professional and personal life. Just because it has always been that doesn't mean that is how it should be now.
Be creative. Don't sit on it and knock it out.

"A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties." -- Harry Truman

That is all I have for now. Take it or leave it. I will get more ideas soon as i can squeeze it in.

Adam


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Posted by: Tarasadie17 May 7 2012, 10:43 PM

Great post Adam, some real good input...

Posted by: msw_sportscards May 8 2012, 12:43 AM

Adam,

Great post. I like the email blast idea. I have a members area on my box break site and after my Bowman release break is over next weekend, I will be sending an email blast(it'll take a simple click since there's a button for that ) to everyone who has become a member of that site. I mentioned TCC numerous times during our A&G break last night as well.

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 May 15 2012, 10:13 PM

Nice. How did the email blast go? Any feedback?

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 May 15 2012, 11:12 PM

Really roughly done but maybe something like this?

Posted by: Tarasadie17 May 15 2012, 11:43 PM

I can't tell you how much I hate it when I come to the homepage and the recent topics are nothing but box break transactions... total turn off....

Posted by: mjda May 16 2012, 07:20 AM

Maybe someone with the power to do so, can remove the group break sub-forums from the recent topic search. It would be my bet that it can be done with the click of a button from within the admin control panel.

Posted by: redwing40 May 16 2012, 04:11 PM

Can we just move the Hockey box Breaks and Hockey News to one section, along with Contest related to Hockey, and assign one MOD to handle it and maybe add extra help to update sport news, Box Breaks, Trades so forth with all sports sections, I would enjoy to click on Hockey and everything I need to know is there!

I will volunteer to make post on NHL News, trades, playoff stats and offer other topic's on Hockey on one section!

Think this will break down everything on the Home page as Just Box Break Central

Posted by: redwing40 May 16 2012, 05:49 PM

Just a suggestion, from me that is, or we can just talk more about it and not make changes, all talk, no action, reminds me of a 70s Elvis tune, come on, the site is not that bad, I'm on 4 other trading card sites, but yet, I call this home, just to many sites kicking around now, new ones popping up, just hard to keep up, change is good!

Or just tell me to shut up already, Lol! Since my opinion don't count since I'm fairly new!

Posted by: Tarasadie17 May 16 2012, 10:02 PM

Over a year plus 1000+ posts doesn't make someone "new"... I like your suggestions...

Posted by: drocksthaparty May 16 2012, 10:18 PM

I have been a member here for a little while, and to be honest, I don't think people are on here trading anymore like they were a few years ago, because it is not updated. The front page has said the member of the month was Osmond like from January of 2011. If I was a new member, I would leave, since it is 2012 and May. Someone should just delete it, I mean it looks like there hasn't been someone on the site since January of 2011.

JUST SAYING?

Posted by: NYStateOfMind1976 May 17 2012, 10:26 PM

CZT, thoughts?

Can you let us know what, if anything is being done with concerns or is it to swamped currently keeping up with regualr tasks?

Love to hear thoughts?

Posted by: bajmurray May 19 2012, 12:31 PM

The team is working on the Home Page issue.

Unfortunately, it is not as easy as it seems.

Stay tuned!

Posted by: mjda May 19 2012, 01:05 PM

Isn't it just a single file that needs updating?

Posted by: Tarasadie17 May 19 2012, 03:04 PM

It isn't quite that simple. Trust me, the team is working to make this happen. Hopefully we will see some changes in place come June....

Posted by: redwing40 May 19 2012, 03:51 PM

Thanks Brian for the updates! Probably not easy, but gald you guys are working on it!

Posted by: mjda May 19 2012, 04:26 PM

I guess what I should have said is, "it is just a single file that needs updating". I know that because I'm the last one who updated it.

Unless they are having problems logging in to the server, that's all that needs to be done. If they no longer have access to the server then this entire thread is pretty useless until Bob makes an appearance, or at least gets in touch with Richard (or another member of the team) and gives them the new login details.

Posted by: RGBII May 19 2012, 04:59 PM

Touché

Collect Hard!,
RGBII

Posted by: mjda May 19 2012, 05:02 PM

Thanks for the reply Richard. At least we know where things stand for the time being. Hopefully you (or someone) will get a phone call soon. Until then, we'll just keep on truckin' on.

Posted by: redwing40 Jan 7 2013, 09:19 AM

A new TCC Team, with some of the team not on or went some where esle, maybe time for a change, get some new team leadership on this site, with new idea's to give this site a face lift! Step down if you don't care to make a effort for this site and let other members that do step in for the job! Just a suggestion!

Posted by: dlackey Dec 18 2016, 03:43 PM

Are you still taking suggestions on what can improve the site. If so how about

Trader of the Month
Weekly Trade Night

Is there a chat room here? If not would that help.

Dennis

Posted by: aceecards Dec 18 2016, 05:15 PM

we do have a chat room

its over here on the left

Posted by: redwing40 Dec 18 2016, 10:35 PM

This sounds like a winner "Weekly Trade Night" and we have a Trade-a-thon coming up that has been long over do, hopefully we can get things going after the new year.

And yes, trader of the month and Member of the month will make a come back within the new year....another thing on the list for 2017.

Posted by: dlackey Dec 18 2016, 11:36 PM

I did find the chat room on here. What is the trade-a-thon?

Dennis

Posted by: captkirk42 Dec 18 2016, 11:55 PM

It has been ages since I've seen any activity in the chat room. Back when I first joined in 2007 it was a flurry of activity and I think Thursdays were the big Chat Room "Trade Night". Since about 2010 or so maybe even sooner the chat room activity for anything has been dead from what I can tell.

Posted by: msw_sportscards Dec 19 2016, 10:39 AM

I think those of us who frequent the site should dedicate ourselves to setting up shop in chat when we're online and doing card stuff. I have mostly been cataloguing cards lately, but I don't need a laptop for that so I haven't been getting on this site as much. It wouldn't be too hard to have chat set up on my laptop while I work. I can commit to a couple hours in the chat room most nights, but it will usually be between 10pm and midnight central time.

Posted by: aceecards Dec 19 2016, 01:30 PM

CHAT night was huge at one time

Posted by: redwing40 Dec 19 2016, 08:32 PM

tried the chat but need a java plug in to run it, I'll have to work on it to get it to work for me

Trade-a Thon is a trading contest that will go on for one month, at the end of the month we will add up the total trades each member made for that month, the member with the most trades wins the Prize package and Trader of the Month tag in your profile.

I hope to get with the rest of the Team towards the end of the year to get a few things going for the site for next year.

Posted by: dlackey Dec 20 2016, 05:28 AM

Sounds good. Same thing on the chat room for me.

Thanks,
Dennis

Posted by: maple19 Dec 20 2016, 07:25 AM

ok down load pictures like facebook

get companys to donate boxes to preview and used hits for contest etc