Serious poll #2 [please read comments before voting]

[Eve]

Serious Poll # 2 [click on comments for details]

Right, yes, another poll about money. But it's important to get all your oppinnions, etc etc, so here goes. Please actually READ the following before voting, it'll make all the difference, swear!

So as you know, MTS2 costs $270 per month, however lately you may have noticed the site getting sluggish and whatnot. This is mainly due to us hitting our bandwidth limit of 60GB a day. Now, we've implemented tons of fixes and whatnot to make the site as pared down as possible, however it's come to the point where we really need to upgrade.

What we need is to switch to a package with unlimited bandwidth [the next step up from what we have now] and a RAM upgrade. This will tide us over for the forseeable future as obviously there's no limits on unlimited bandwidth. The only problem is that it'll be expensive.

The RAM upgrade alone will be $500 and having unlimited bandwidth will increase our monthly costs from $270 to $500, which is a big jump when you consider this site is really community funded. So there's an initial outlay of $1,000 with $500 per month after that - the price of popularity I'm afraid. And, although we have $740 in donations at the moment, you can understand our need to increase that so as to ensure the sites future. That's why we've come up with the following fundraisers for MTS2:

Option One:
MTS2 Tshirts.
We make up a one off batch of say 200 tshirts, divided into 5 groups of different slogans [50 shirts per slogan]. Some of these slogans include "I mod your childrens games" or "Tomatoes, sausages, panites: MTS2.com" - we haven't figured all the details out yet. Please only vote for this option if you're willing to actually purchase a tshirt, otherwise there's little point in us going to all the trouble of organising them. We just want to know if you'd be interested in buying a tshirt and we'll hammer out the specifics after the poll.

Option Two:
MTS2 Supporter.
A Supporter would sign up to pay a low price - say $5 - per month. Before you all start freaking out and squealing "paysite, paysite!" with fangirl vigor, let me just stress that MTS2 will remain completly free to everbody. The only difference between a normal member and a Supporter is perhaps a doodad icon thingy under their avatar - nothing else. And the fact that they'd be helping the site out in the long term, which is always good. If you have any further ideas for a Supporter, then please comment.

Option Three:
MTS2 Auctions.
Basically, being the big geeks we are, Delphy and I have waaaay too much stuff, everything from programming books to boxes of mysterious cables to old "I wouldn't wear that but someone thinner/shorter/less colourblind would" clothes. We propose a series of auctions held on our forums, kinda like our own mini ebay, where we put up stuff and you guys bid with all proceeds going to the donation fund. We wouldn't have shoddy crap either, I know I personally have a shrink wrapped Pinky Street figure, stacks of unread Writers Digest and large pewter statues from my fairy/dragon fixation a while back. So really it'd be a bit of everything and all in the name of fun. Oh and helping the site, of course.

Option Four.
Regular donations.
Dont do any of the fundraising stuff and just rely on regular donations as we do now. It's risky, as our costs have increased so much, but if people want it that way, then that's fine too.

Option Five.
Buy Delphy's Ponytail.
Yes, the generic "gag" option. Basically Delph had a ponytail of a good 4/5 inches and when he got scalped recently [sorry, got a haircut :_P] he kept his ponytail - it's still in the original gogo. So we auction that off. Pics of the fabled ponytail to follow...

Please take a moment to think about this seriously as it really does affect the future of the site. And only vote for things you'd be willing to participate in. Buying a tshirt may appeal to you, but if you're going to have trouble actually making the purchase, then vote for something else.

Cheers,
Eve.

PS. And of course, if you can think of anything else we could do as a fundraise, let us know.

[RGiles]

Could we get a scan of the ponytail? Just so we can see what we'd be voting for? :D

RG

[Eve]

"Pics of the fabled ponytail to follow..."

Good grief danners you need glasses.

[Clowndancer]

This site is worth being given a helping hand, I cannot contribute by creation, but 5 dollars would be fine as I would be helping others who visit to enjoy what all of those who do create. Art mus. even Disney have brick with the initals or names.

Thank you and I thank all of you on this site that had added zest to Grandmas Sims

[Faylen]

Site supporter sounds like a pretty good deal, you know, and wouldn't violate any licensing agreements, laws, whatever. I wouldn't buy a t-shirt, because the only place I wear them is to the gym - and my sweaty body would never encourage anyone to visit a site advertised on it. . .

[Numenor]

I volunteer to be a regular supporter. $5 a month for an icon under the Avatar it's a real bargain! :D
Maybe you could let the supporter choose the "supporting" effort: 5/10/15/... $ a month will give them a */**/***/... icon. Cool!
Actually, some members, like the Moderators (and the Supermoderators ;)), deserve a full row of icons just for the hard work they do (ehm... they do it for free, right...? :))

[navyblue_moon]

do you have to have a credit card or could you send a money order for any of those options

[RGiles]

Since the T-shirt plan would require putting some money down, I would suggest saving that option for later. But it's definitely a good idea and I do think people would buy them.

Right now I'd say the supporter icon thingy. That's the fastest. Other options should be used later. all of them are good.

I already HAVE glasses. Isn't that sad?

RG

[ScottyToledo]

I like the supporter idea as well. I can afford 5 bucks a month for this site. It's definately worth it to me.

Or you can sell sausages!

[Carista]

lolz.. nobody wants to bid for Delphy's ponytail! =l

[darter1234]

I agree with both Numenor and RG. The supporter option would give the fastest results, and the idea of it being tiered would allow those with less cash flow to still help out while allowing those that can support in a bigger way to do so. Maybe a silver, gold, platinum type level.

[Loverat]

RGiles you pet, try wearing the glasses on your EYES instead of on your sausage =) or tomatoes!

I have been a part of a couple of websites that have supporter packages and I likee that idea!

[tkdjunkie]

I'll be a supporter! :P

Is it possible to make the monthly donation variable (user's choice of $5, $10, $15, $20, etc., per month)?

[Carista]

yeah. I think having variable amounts is a better idea. those who can afford to give more can give more and for those who cannot, $5 will be the minimum then.

[tkdjunkie]

do you have to have a credit card or could you send a money order for any of those options

This site uses PayPal, and PayPal accepts almost every tender ... with the exception of one's firstborn and spare limbs ... :P

www.paypal.com

[AngryBunny]

I think the supporter idea is good, $5 a month isn't a lot and not everybody would have to do it so this gets my vote. But if there were t-shirts I'd definitly want one :D

[crazy4sims]

maby you sould ask eagames and maxis for help. or go into advertising (i hear it could pay very well). if you need help with maintaing the site , i will be willing to help. (i have basic skiss and i'm willling to leurn). or sponsor ship off a nother company.

[rednotdead]

yeah supporter would be nice id rather give my money here than to some other sites lol

[Numenor]

Is it possible to make the monthly donation variable (user's choice of $5, $10, $15, $20, etc., per month)?

I think that this wouldn't be a good idea, because Delphy and Eve (or better, Eve and Delphy: we are polite persons :)) should rely on a known monthly income. We already can make variable donation today. The problem is that we should at least declare to the admin what is the minimum monthly "effort" they can count on.


RGiles you pet, try wearing the glasses on your EYES instead of on your sausage =) or tomatoes!
Loverat, you are a mith! I have definitely to attend to your next course of English :D

[ScottyToledo]

I have a question about the ponytail. Has it been washed? ;)

[BlueJeannie]

I didn't vote for any because I think we could do a variety of them. I've contributed and would have no problem becoming a site supporter but wouldn't mind a t-shirt later on either.

Would it be feasible to do a variety? Keep open the donations, have site supporters and do other things to raise money? There may be a few that can be site supporters, others that only once in a great while can contribute, but no pressure on anyone(let's face it, we know not everyone can spare money).

Oh, if you are auctioning dragons, Let me know!!!! I collect some, :D

[RGiles]

RGiles you pet, try wearing the glasses on your EYES instead of on your sausage =) or tomatoes!
Cheeky! I don't see how it's any of your business where I put them. Then again, maybe I'd see that to if I... never mind.

[polskasister]

So, I like the idea of the supporter. Like BlueJeannie, though, I think you should keep regular donations open and even do the auction thing. T-shirts would be cool, but they do cost money to make, so maybe that could be done at a later date.

[daysies]

I'm up for being a regular supporter. I already allocate some of my money for things like this. I'm happy to help!

Edit:
I finally donated! (I've been procrastinating.)

[Care]

I say the supporter idea as well, You could do the t-shirts and sell other MTS2 items as well. Why not go through some place like http://www.cafepress.com/ They make it you sell it type deal. Heck you could still do the auction idea as well for extra money you may need.

[tabbysgranhag]

Auction the ponytail - and let those of us who do not win the coveted trophy become regular sustaining donors (patrons??) I'm in for the $five/month, but I would like to give the year's donation in a lump, would that work?

[anglesims2]

I like that Idea the supporter one even though I can not do that myself for a few months due to car repairs and doing upgrades on my computer, It is expensive on every thing in this world it is not just here it is every thing in this crazy world we live in and it will go higher and higher the rich will get richer and the poorer will get poorer I am in the below poverty my self but I thank god everyday for my low income housing. If This is gone I am gone due to I can not realy work due to my lower back spine my disks are degenerating one by one. So I say supporters sounds like a good plan.

[Elizabeth46]

this isn't one of the choices but, what's wrong with using something like fileplanet.. I have been getting some awesome houses and things from Sim Estates1 and 2 ..it is a free site and I have never , never seem them ask for donations..so it must work...so why not go that route???? plz answer..I would like to know..

[Niomi]

I'd be a supporter! I really need to donate but I'm not very good at remembering things.. heheheh.. ^_^()

I'd rather it not be an auto-withdraw, though. How about an email once a month, saying 'it's time to make your payment this month', and as long as I get one payment in for each 30-day period, I am in the clear? I'm really paranoid about overdrafting and I'd like to have complete control over when it goes out. This way a supporter could have the money withdrawn after payday, or if a sudden expense comes up they could put paying off till later in the month when the money is more available.

[Eric]

the first 4 look like good ideas to me.... with MTS2 supporter being first while leaving regular donations available as an aside (?). my choices 3 (tshirts) and 4 (auctions) being additional options at a later date? mostly just for fun (kathy would probably like a T-Shirt)?

the 5th option (yeah i know it is a joke(?)) just does not appeal to me lol

EDIT: although hmmmm i could make a voodoo doll with it which might be fun :D

[Geekess]

I had my wisdom teeth out recently, I will gladly offer all 4 up for auction! :D
Other than that I would love to work on the t-shirt project, I make logos and slogans 5 days a week and couldn't think of a better place to help out... I mostly useless in any other area. *sob*

[crazy4sims]

oh wait i heve just had a great idea . we all know that the sims 2 team keep sasying that there gonig to bring out a coustem content tool (here's where you all come in) join the the team and take care of that in excange for that thay pay for the site

[Slip]

Don't put all your eggs in one basket! You can have it all: an auction, donations, pledged support,... do everything!!!

I like the support thingie with the icon thingie below the main thingie... (he he) Onward and upward --- MTSims2!!!

[tkdjunkie]

I think that this wouldn't be a good idea, because Delphy and Eve (or better, Eve and Delphy: we are polite persons :)) should rely on a known monthly income. We already can make variable donation today. The problem is that we should at least declare to the admin what is the minimum monthly "effort" they can count on.

True ... I suppose it would ease financial planning and budgeting if all of the "supporters" gave the same monthly amount. Then MTS2 would at least be able to count on a "fixed" support income plus a "variable" donation income.

However, when I asked about having different monthly support options, I meant allowing each member to have the option to commit to a fixed monthly amount was comfortable for them (i.e. $5, or $10, etc -- not changing one's mind every month). Reason being, some members are only able to donate $5 per month, but others have expressed that they are willing to donate more. So allowing flexibile support options would maximize the income generated. And if each supporter's fixed monthly donation amount were to be logged, future income could be easily computed.

The only drawback I see to the monthly contribution idea is how it would be handled if a member decides to withdraw his or her support. Would it be a "cancel at any time" or "sign up for six months" program?

[whitefolks]

As much as i like the idea of MTS2 shirt sales.."i got my sausage modded at MTS2" :) I'll prob have to go with site supporter. :) For those that can, and i stress for those that can, $5 really isnt that much to support something you like :)

[eviltone]

My $.02...
have a mini "store" for those icons... like $5 will get you a pair of tomatoes, $10 will get you a golden monkey, $15 will get you ....

or sell "MTS2 points" that allow you to BUY your specific icon......

i'm trying to find the example i saw recently....

definately MTS2 Supporter.... but in many different denominations...

-Tone

(points system: http://www.aimutation.com/viewforum.php?f=13) which allows you to "buy" things....

i'll post pictures...

[Zandi]

Don't put all your eggs in one basket! You can have it all: an auction, donations, pledged support,... do everything!!!

I like the support thingie with the icon thingie below the main thingie... (he he) Onward and upward --- MTSims2!!!

I'm with Slip on this.
There's no reason why we can't do a combination of things.
This site is definatly worth $60 a year to me to be a supporter but I'm a weirdo who likes to do thigs with out people knowing so the donation button sticking around for my quiet deposits would be great.
Also occasional auctions could be cool.
People could offfer their talents for auction.Highest bidder gets to choose an object for them to make or somethig sort of like an auction for a gaurenteed request forfilment. or raffles ( sp) for various things including the T-shirts and MTS2 merchandise.
Why limmit yourself to one means of income when ypou can have it all?

[Eric]

i would assume that it would be "cancel at any time" based on the fact that real life occurances (ie: child care, unanticipated medical, unanticipated auto repair, etc. takes precedence over a game or website devoted to such a thing any day.

Kathy and i have paid $100 already for this game (2 individual sets of disks) and honestly i don't know if i would or will be able to ever offer up money to a website devoted to it but if/when i did i would not like having someone say "but you signed a contract" :)

EDIT: not implying that anyone would push for a "contract" or anything... just my opinion on the issue :)

[rog3er]

I would like to contribute, and ,in fact, just sent $20 a month ago. But $60 per year might be prohibitive for many. And though I like the supporter option, I don't want to see it evolve into a class division.

On the other hand, with 40,000+ members, I would think that regular donations should cover all costs. If not, then my respect for this community would diminish.

Now that I''ve muddied my own thought process, but hopefully not yours, I'd have to say I'm on the fence. :confused:

[terryl]

Will be more than happy to pay $5.00 a month. With the Sims 1 I was spending @$25.00 on various sites. This site has it all so for me that would be a deal. (sent $10.00 in Jan but forgot to put my screen name in)

[25or6to4]

I tried to get a paypal account, I e-mailed paypal as well and what they emailed back to be sounded to complicated, What I'd like to no is do you take Canadian postal money orders or money orders from banks, also I think the money store does wire transfers, do you take any of these types of payments and well you be posting a P.O. box or address as to where I could send one of the mentioned type's of donation's (excluding paypal) too!.


Thx Craig

[GwydionOak]

I believe all of the above are good options. It give those of us who want to support the site and have different financial situations constructive ways to do so....think I'd have to pass on the ponytail, though. :D

[ForgottenSoul702]

I would definitely be willing to give $5 a month. That's not a bad idea. Supporter it is!

[ThomasRiordan]

I like the teen shirt idea and would probably buy a few provided they're not too high priced and aren't white. A couple of slogans could be "I support teen woo hoo!", and "100% modded sausage".

[Eric]

i'm not sure exactly what is meant by "class division"... i don't see someone having a special icon (?) assigned to them, as showing any kind of preferential treatment but as a gesture of appreciation (?) for continual willing support as opposed to singular gestures?

i don't know i could be wrong about a "class division" (?) but i am sure that if such a (absurd to me) thing were to somehow happen then it would not be by Eve or Delphys design and they would stomp a "foot" down on it, right quick.

what simster says pertaining to westernunion or such methods sounds like a good idea to me but then i admit my ignorance on the subject as i know nothing about how such things are set up or what it takes to set them in place.

EDITED: i assume "class division" refers to possibility of some people saying in a thread "yeah well i am a regular supporter of MTS2 and you aren't so your opinion doesn't count" or some other such nonsense?

sincerely
eric

[Anastayja]

The supporter idea gets my vote.

[Zoltan]

MTS2 Supporter and Regular Donations seems like the most likely of solutions.


MTS2 Tshirts and Bid for Delphy's ponytail prob wont get as much response.
(sorry Delphy :nana: )

MTS2 Auction would prob get response like "HellllppppMeeeeee1111!!! and Your auction broke my game!!! and How do I install this auction, I dont have RAR???" :D

[Elizabeth46]

i'm not sure exactly what is meant by "class division"... i don't see someone having a special icon (?) assigned to them, as showing any kind of preferential treatment but as a gesture of appreciation (?) for continual willing support as opposed to singular gestures?

i don't know i could be wrong about a "class division" (?) but i am sure that if such a (absurd to me) thing were to somehow happen then it would not be by Eve or Delphys design and they would stomp a "foot" down on it, right quick.

what simster says pertaining to westernunion or such methods sounds like a good idea to me but then i admit my ignorance on the subject as i know nothing about how such things are set up or what it takes to set them in place.

EDITED: i assume "class division" refers to possibility of some people saying in a thread "yeah well i am a regular supporter of MTS2 and you aren't so your opinion doesn't count" or some other such nonsense?

sincerely
eric

thank you eric.. I feel the same way.. :lol:

[mjlardo]

ya'll do such a fab job. maybe the supporters could be for 5/10/15(maybe at 15 you get a MTS2 coffee cup or something) but I think the support option would offer the most consistant funds and you could try the others to help raise initial funds for the upgrade. Anyway count me in! where can I pay? ( and do ya'll accept credit cars?)

[johnr2000]

:howdy:
Hi all,
I will support the sight with $ 5.00 per month.
:beer:

[lilsweetiecori]

I think the MTS2 Supporter option is best. Although, I will be honest with you all, my being a stay at home mom, I get no pay for my hard work (4 kids) so I couldn't help out. But if I were working I would definitely put up a little money each month for this site. Look at all the awesome stuff a person gets from this site for free.

I will admit...*runs and hides behind a wall*... I did beg my hubby for a little money a couple of months ago to become a member of TSR...*plugs ears and waits for yelling to stop*... I only did that because I made a bunch of stuff for that site and I cant even download my own things without a membership :blah: But anyway, yep the supporter idea is a great one.

[chbimun]

Like Care said cafepress is a great place to do Tshirts though they can be a bit pricey if you expect to make any profit for them. But... hey... at least you can get a thong with the sausage! And I'd love an MTS2 mousepad over a tshirt anyway!

I myself voted for contributor. I don't have any trouble paying and if you do go the tshirt route I'd be happy to submit a few designs for the masses to vote on. XD

[YesPlease]

I like the supporter idea, while continuing the donation link. T-shirts are too much $ up front, but the auction idea sounds good, too. Maybe a combination of supporter, donation, & auction?

[Braveheart]

What do you mean by regular donations? Do you mean just as it has been, donations gratefully accepted but with no obligation?

[YesPlease]

Continue the donation link for those who can't be a supporter every month, but they can still make a one time donation of whatever amount they can afford. Yes, just as it is now.

[Braveheart]

Thanks YesPlease, now with regular supporter, does that then get you special or preferencial treatment? Will that then set the suppoerters 'apart' somehow? How does that work?

Sorry, I guess I should have just edited my first post.......I will never do this again, I promise, So sorry. Please don't throw me out ;)

[YesPlease]

Hmmm, there was mention of an icon under the avatar that would designate you as a supporter. Some people think that this might set supporters apart and they might be held in higher esteem by the community, like a class system. Personally, I would donate/support, but I don't necessarily need people to know. I'm no good at meshing or creating things for upload, so I wouldn't mind contributing to the community monetarily.

[tkdjunkie]

Hmmm, there was mention of an icon under the avatar that would designate you as a supporter. Some people think that this might set supporters apart and they might be held in higher esteem by the community, like a class system. Personally, I would donate/support, but I don't necessarily need people to know. I'm no good at meshing or creating things for upload, so I wouldn't mind contributing to the community monetarily.

You just spoke my mind. How did you do that?! :omg:

;)

[erbereth]

I agree completely with YesPlease. I am no good at creating things and would happily become a supporter of this site.

[YesPlease]

You just spoke my mind. How did you do that?! :omg:

;)

Look over your shoulder... :bigwave:

[Tarsii]

I would be glad to become a supporter cause this place is GREAT!

[nikki0414]

I'm pretty new here....both in the fact that I've only registred not too long ago and that I haven't posted but twice and haven't contributed any content (yet)....but the Supporter Option sounds good. My hubby is pretty good about letting me do things like that since when he does, he knows I won't complain when he wants to buy a membership somewhere, or a new program for his computer.

[dssly]

I am all forward in helping out as I did in becoming one of the first members at Photosig. Reading everyone comments may sound good on paper, but realistic may cause some conflicts. The support and classifying different icons on the amounts donated place people in categories as good doers and cheapsters and some of our folks are not as rich or under age and does not have the funds to excel a high amounts to donate and seeing special icon reflecting the amounts donate give a bias (is that the right word to use?) reflections to all.
Let keep the supported donations icon simple and share any amount with only 1 icon.
Do have a yearly or monthly membership and have an incentive on becoming a member.
Sale the T-Shirts or any kind of what-you-ma-call-its (I will buy one).

[dssly]

Look over your shoulder... :bigwave:
I 2nd that, or is it 3rds :smash:

[RareNic]

I voted for Supporter.
occational Auction isn't bad idea though... :agree:

[mukuta]

Thanks for this site
I have some remarks :
Yes i would donate , np i will not donate 5 dollar each month i dont like monthly expensives
I would pay gladly 25 dollars ,and then do it again if i have money again
The bandwidht is a afwull lot
however is this the cheapest rate ?
i dl or mainly uploaded 300 giga this month and i pay little ,some providers are a lot cheaper then others
I wouldnt mind some extra advertising on the pages
Its always nice to buy good funstuff , And what about other websites collect money for you by placing a advertising ,that you will bebefit from And
I LOVE THIS PLACE
and i will support it
greetings

[diviant]

Voted for the supporter option but will also add votes for the regular donations as well as the t-shirt thru cafepress idea as well.

[RealHogsFan]

I couldn't guarentee my participation in any of the above mentioned fundraisers, but i could sure try.

[Random]

I'd be a supporter as long as one of the real modders got the icon. They are the ones that make this site what it is. But, like simster, I don't use pay-pal. He/she gave some (imo) really good options for donating to the site.

Or, you could charge certain pay-sites (tsr for example) for use of the CEP and SimPE programs (jk, kinda :D )

[conker87]

I'd love to have a T-Shirt, I'd wear it college with pride :D

[mariposa]

I've never spoken on the forums before, but have been reading them for months now. I generally prefer to keep my mouth shut. I do, however, want to say that I would be happy to be a regular supporter of this site by making monthly donations of a set amount (i.e. $5.00). I think that it is only fair that we who enjoy the site be willing to help sustain it.

[Inge Jones]

If the costs are going up all the time, I'd look to see if it wasn't time to keep them down by concentrating on the main focus of the service. Ie being a forum for existing and would-be modders and designers, with tutorials, tools for download, and a beta test forum where objects were only supposed to stay up for a limited amount of time for genuine test purposes. I would drop the permanent downloads and the space and bandwidth they take up. There are plenty of other places for people to host their creations.

At least, I would be interested in some breakdown of costs if I'm going to be a regular committed supporter. I'd feel it was a worthy cause to ensure that the only currently viable forum for exchange of modding info was kept open, but not quite so keen if over 80% of my monthly payment was subsidising people downloading pr0n and flashing blue flamingoes.

[fishface60]

I say supporter, the icon could be the Aspiration Meter.

[Samekh]

I thought that this site was run by some munificent millionaires?! I voted for a teeshirt but I understand the risks involved in that (financial outlay). Perhaps we could pay upfront a certain sum and then either have a teeshirt or an addendum to our postings. Whatever is decided - can you make it so that us stay at home mothers can pay by bank transfer from our family tax credit income. I don't have a visa card and the dad is extremely cantancerous (spellcheck?) when it comes to lending me his. I'll contribute something. You own me anyway. I live here.

[crazy4sims]

i'v been reading all your post and ithink that eventualy this site will turn into a pay site. ( i can't afooord any site mebership i can berly pay for evry thing needed to go on the internet ex= mothly internet fee, power of pc modem and other object related to this, and the pc it slef.) i earn arond 150 euro's a month i need arond 75 for bills (excoulding internet) 50 for food and the rest will be devide over wath els i need to pay. how a'm i going to aford an mothly payment if i don't have eny money to send on things i like (change) . even if it's 10 euro's a month i can't afford it . maby you should consider advertisments on the site . (thay'll pay for the carges so that the site can stay free for evry body) (this is only posssinble if the site has enough vistors. becouse the site has over 60gb being downloaded a day you don't neeed to gaint visitors. so go for the advertisments. thay pay good!

[Delphy]

Dean,

How many paysites do you know that actually tell people where the money goes and what it is spent on - heck that announce how much bandwidth they use a day and openly tell you all those details? Not many I'd hazard.

The point is If you dont want to donate you dont have to.

We are not forcing anybody to donate if they dont have the money to. We are not restricting content based on if you have or haven't paid. It's simply to tell people what we would like to do and to plan accordingly and to actually tell people whats happening.

No doubt everybody would be up in arms if we just decided to arbitarily implement changes like this without informing people - thats why we have polls and give out information.

So, instead of whining about paysites, don't contribute :) You don't have to and nobody is forcing you too.

Inge,

I already provided a breakdown of the donation and costs. I don't invisage changing the actual way the site operates, but again the same applies - if you dont feel that your contribution is being put to good use, then you don't have to contribute :)

Hope this clarifies things.

Regards
Delphy

[Samekh]

Dean, I hope it wont be a pay site for that reason. You should be able to use the site, penniless orphans and other assorted children should be able to use the site. Don't get despondent. I'm sure the people that set this up had no intention, have no intention, of making it an obligation that you pay to use it. Tee Shirts. How many people would like a tee shirt to wear down the pub and make the local hicks say 'wah?' Don't put any oblique references to sausages on the tee shirts though. I don't understand that sausage thing.

[Samekh]

You got there before me Delphy. Has something annoyed you? You seem tense.

[mrs cake]

I would love to pay $5 a month to help pay for the site, but in Ireland you can only use paypal if you have a credit card, as a single mother no one will trust me with a credit card :confused: also, how many €s is $5?? if it was €10 or more i could only support the site some of the time. Could you sell Tshirts and do auctions once a year anyway, if this raised enough money you could offer regular supporters a free month or two :bump: ?

[digits26s]

The tshirt and auction ideas would mean a huge investment in time and money, remember there are members scattered all over the world and being a regular buyer of things that i can only get in the U.S i can tell you the cost and hassle of international shipping is a pain.
MTS2 supporter sounds like the ideal solution to me, i know i have a paypal account and i'm sure many other international users do too so that could be one option for a regular payment scheme. I wouldn't even mind chipping in an extra $1 to help cover paypal fees.

[BetsyJayne]

I love the T-shirt idea, the only reason for that being that my Hubby would shit a brick if he knew what I was donating 5$ a month for. But I could probably pull it off, by telling him it was a subcription. We can afford it, he would just shit because he hates my Sims fixation. (Yet I say nothing about his porn fixation :sprint: )

Either way, I would be willing to donate monthly, but I would also buy numerous T-shirts. I am a sucker for clothes. Especially shirts with witty sayings on them.

[Apple]

I vote for supporter, as well as keeping the random donations possible. I'd also like to see some t-shirts, and possibly the auctions at a later date. This site is worth it!! IMHO, anyways. :D

[Samekh]

Is that Alan Rickman or is that you?

[Samekh]

Is that Alan Rickman as Rasputin?

[crazy4sims]

delphy i understant that nobody is forsinig me to pay . i would love to donate if i have ssome money left i will do so . with pleasure . i have a web site and i have a free web domain. and i love to get a domian . and i'm goingt to do evry thing to get it . (you mite be thinking what douse this have to do with this topic) ( well i have no funding what so ever . but i'm going to finde a way were i don't have to ask my visitor(no offence) to pay i'll even take a second job if i have to . so . maby you sould considder advertismens on your site . becouse you get alot of visitors . and the advertisors will pay big $$$$$$ for space on your site . and that i'll liten the lode on the ammount that have to pay a monthly paymet . and maby there willl be money left that you can use on the site for impruvements on the site . ( sorrry for the terrible typing (it's late over here)) . i like this site very much and i have evne set it as my home page .i will suport it eny way i can (if you need help with the site i'll help for free).
i have an idea i was just looking at the forum and i see alot ove colesed topis maby you sould delet them to free up space.

[Samekh]

Dean, I love the way you talk.

It's rum over here.

[crazy4sims]

Dean, I love the way you talk.

It's rum over here.
i'm very tierd it's now 22:00 and i was up sinse 04:00 i'm over tierd i won't be able to g a sleep for a wile (i heve to be up at 07:20 tomorrow)

[mrs cake]

How come so many wives here seem to have trouble justifying using family cash for sims stuff? Ok my husband ran off with my neighbour while i was playing sims, but i just got lucky..lol

[mcmikey]

Do them all!

Mike

P.S.

Well, perhaps not the pony tail :-)

[Samekh]

Oh Mrs. Cake, you jest surely?

I just looked back over the thread and I saw this

There are plenty of other places for people to host their creations.

by Inge.

And I had a go at Delphy for being grumpy.

This is not just a place to host creations, it's free information about how to make them. Did you mean this to sound as off hand as it did?

[trombones03]

There are advertisements on the site - they have been here a while. Very top of every page, right side. Obviously, they aren't paying for enough, or we wouldn't be having this poll. That's why donations are needed. :)

Maybe another way of phrasing "supporter" is calling it a "consistant contributer".

I think that occasional auctions would be nice no matter what the ultimate decison is.

[shokroklove]

id go for the pony tail for a very good reason: a casino once bought a cane said to have the ghost of someone inside it and a cheese sandwich in the shape of mary. now go figure, if you auction off a ponytail there is a good chance some crazy person would be willing to buy it. especially that casino... lol

[mrs cake]

[QUOTE=Samekh]Oh Mrs. Cake, you jest surely?

No i was really lucky...he could'nt fit the computor in his car :lol:

[crazy4sims]

maby you sould make a deal the sims 2 team were be you and some other people do some work for the sims 2 team ant thay suport the site with money (is that an option) maby the site sould handle the coustom content part of the game and that the sims 2 team will pay to the site for making a coustom content tool. this is only an idea. evry body sould allways try to finde more than the the first idea and all so have a fuw idea's running at ones. i mite sound very rude now but do you see what i'm sasying

[Samekh]

Huc huc? Sometimes, just sometimes... I know exactly how you feel Mrs. Cake.

[crazy4sims]

i'm going to go around the office tomorrow and see what i can rease
it will all be for the site

[mrs cake]

thank goodness for that Samekh i thought it was me! =0)

[plaidsquirrel]

Jezze Dean do you love ad's or what. Please for the love of God no more ad's. The ones this site has now are nice unobtrusive ad's that I can glance at but they don't do anything annoying to force my attention. I appreciate that. I HATE sites with huge flashing ad's. In fact AOL pisses me off cause with all their web filtering spam filtering bullshit they put ad's right inside your in-box that you can't even get rid of. It's just making it so that their sponsors have no one to compete with for your time. And you pay 40 or 50 bucks a month for that crap. I ditched them when they stuck the ad's in there.
Okay so I steered way off course there so back to my original point. I think the supporter thing sounds best with the donation set-up you have now continuing on the side for people like me that really can't be sure I'll have even the miniscule sum of 5 bucks to spare every month.

delphy i understant that nobody is forsinig me to pay . i would love to donate if i have ssome money left i will do so . with pleasure . i have a web site and i have a free web domain. and i love to get a domian . and i'm goingt to do evry thing to get it . (you mite be thinking what douse this have to do with this topic) ( well i have no funding what so ever . but i'm going to finde a way were i don't have to ask my visitor(no offence) to pay i'll even take a second job if i have to . so . maby you sould considder advertismens on your site . becouse you get alot of visitors . and the advertisors will pay big $$$$$$ for space on your site . and that i'll liten the lode on the ammount that have to pay a monthly paymet . and maby there willl be money left that you can use on the site for impruvements on the site . ( sorrry for the terrible typing (it's late over here)) . i like this site very much and i have evne set it as my home page .i will suport it eny way i can (if you need help with the site i'll help for free).
i have an idea i was just looking at the forum and i see alot ove colesed topis maby you sould delet them to free up space.

[evenstar88]

Hm... I'm wondering if the t-shirts (if you decide to go aheah with the idea) will be shipped worldwide. I mean, I would love to have a mts2 t-shirt, and I would gladly pay the postage and packing too (duh, of course :P). :D I think the supporter and auction ideas are pretty interesting too :) But I voted for t-shirts because I would buy one, even if only to hang it on my door.

[digits26s]

Mrs Cake $5 is approx £3 a month.

[gk4495]

I vote for the supporter option. I think that will provide the quickest solution. However, free will donations should always be emphasized so that people don't get the idea that their help is not needed, or that supporters are some sort of "super class." While I would love a T-shirt I think that international shipping would become a world class b*tch and more headache in the long run than anything else. (But yes, I'd be ordering one post haste if they were offered.)

[crazy4sims]

Jezze Dean do you love ad's or what. Please for the love of God no more ad's. The ones this site has now are nice unobtrusive ad's that I can glance at but they don't do anything annoying to force my attention. I appreciate that. I HATE sites with huge flashing ad's. In fact AOL pisses me off cause with all their web filtering spam filtering bullshit they put ad's right inside your in-box that you can't even get rid of. It's just making it so that their sponsors have no one to compete with for your time. And you pay 40 or 50 bucks a month for that crap. I ditched them when they stuck the ad's in there.
Okay so I steered way off course there so back to my original point. I think the supporter thing sounds best with the donation set-up you have now continuing on the side for people like me that really can't be sure I'll have even the miniscule sum of 5 bucks to spare every month. i totaly understan what you are saying bit on the
htpmlgoodies.com (http://www.htmlgoodies.com) site say that thay get $500 for only 1 ad at the top of a page ( if you can get that typ of money off 1 ad think what only 10 would bring in a= $5000,- a month (then we wouldn't need to donate at all))) see waht i'm sasying ( you can chose the ad's so that you can get thing that are relavent to the site and are not in you face all the time.

[mrs cake]

Thanks Digit! =0) thats €6-ish

[rog3er]

i assume "class division" refers to possibility of some people saying in a thread "yeah well i am a regular supporter of MTS2 and you aren't so your opinion doesn't count" or some other such nonsense?
sincerely eric
I suppose what I meant by "class division" was a possible veering toward a situation where supporters would have a greater choice of whatever this site has to offer going forward. Like those sites that have their best downloads for the paying members. Not that I think this would actually happen... It was voiced as a possible concern. At any rate I'm no longer on the fence. I go for the supporter option.

Hope my rambling hasn't offended you Eric (or anyone else). I'm a huge fan.

:lol: Now stop hassling me & fix the Insiminator so we can have both abortion & Teen Pregnancy :lol:

[crazy4sims]

i'm goging to bed i'll tink how ik kan help more and i'll replay in the moring

[crazy4sims]

here's the aritkal for htmlgoodies.com =



How Much Does HTML Goodies Ask For?
None of your business. Just kidding! I used to have different costs for each of the pages. When I first created "htmlgoodies.com", if you wanted to be at the top of the main page, I asked for $500. Each tutorial was $200. That was for one calendar month.
That meant I could offer 150,000 impressions for $500. Maybe that will help you decide on the amount you want to charge as you're getting off the ground.
As I said above, I am now using a CPM rate. Plus I have someone selling for me. I actually stay pretty far away from the money side of the site. I believe the rates now run about $30 or better for a thousand impressions. The site's pretty profitable.


let me say this if there was no money in the world we would of been better off . there wondn't be the great povity in afrika. for one thing.

[Eric]

I suppose what I meant by "class division" was a possible veering toward a situation where supporters would have a greater choice of whatever this site has to offer going forward. Like those sites that have their best downloads for the paying members. Not that I think this would actually happen... It was voiced as a possible concern. At any rate I'm no longer on the fence. I go for the supporter option.

Hope my rambling hasn't offended you Eric (or anyone else). I'm a huge fan.

:lol: Now stop hassling me & fix the Insiminator so we can have both abortion & Teen Pregnancy :lol:

ah, ok, thank you for the clarification rog3r and i wasn't offended in the least... glad that you did not take offense in return also.... and ... i'm working on it ...i'm working on it... put the whip down please :lol:

[peter_halland]

I would like to vote for costs controll. Unfortunatly this option allways is difficult to implement in growing companies, naturaly. So, the more relavant question is what is the goal for ModThe Sims2 ?

When you have success its like with suger, you want more. I don t want to take you down Delphi and Aobh, i admire you and and your fantastic work and still can t believe how you could make all this here being possible.

What comes next? More people, new content, objects so you can fill a warehouse, animations, ...maybe usermade E-packs? Who can administrate all this and who can administrate the administrators? All for free? Somehow it would make scense to smaller the future way, just to make sure that not everything is going out of controll. Take care of what has achieved and handle it like a tiny very valuable treasure.

I m go to vote for the shirt. I will buy it and get a very nice remind of these funny and exciting days in the beginning of the sims 2. Hopefully i can flagg with it a long time ahead, hopefully you will find the best way. Good luck.

[Grapholina]

Supporter. I don't mind donating to a worthy cause on a regular basis. My only concern is to keep this site alive and healthy.

[rog3er]

Take care of what has achieved and handle it like a tiny very valuable treasure.

hopefully you will find the best way. Good luck.
Peter, well said!

[LyricLee]

OK just my two cents here. I think all of the ideas are good ones. However I do think some people with low maturity issues may gripe about special avatars and such not. So my idea would be this. People who are "regular contributors" and sign up for the 5$ a month plan, could possibly get a limited ammount of storage space on the site. Kind of like an email box has. This they could use for their uploads. Others who cant afford to donate, could still post downloads but theyd only be available for say 2 weeks or so and then deleted. This would conserve space and also give an intangible and not noticable bonus to regular subscribers. Just an idea. :) anything to keep this site going works for me.

[Delphy]

I think I also need to make clear that we do not run this site for profit. Oh and I don't want more than 1 ad on a page which we already have :)

Ren, the PayPal fees, when averaged out, aren't that bad, but the problem with the auction idea is that it would have to be something owned actually by MTS2. I wouldn't like to take somebody elses hard work and sell it off to the highest bidder.

Dean,

While I appreciate your help, this is not a get rich quick scheme :) Think of it more that we know we need to upgrade, and if we can get a core of supporters then the normal donations would probably cover the rest.

Peter,

Administering the site is something is done for free. I do a lot of backend work on the database, the scripts, vbulletin hacks, and all the other staff put in many hours moderating and keeping you lot in check =) It's all done for free and will stay that way :) I do think about future needs, but really all the stuff you are talking about is using the resouces of disk space and bandwidth. The actual moderation of the site would grow as needs demand, and I would imagine there is no shortage of people willing to help out :)

rog3er,

Let me state again that supporters will not get access to anything more than the normal registered members would - we do not intend to restrict the site based on if you have paid or not. While we may introduce a small icon under supporters names, or a custom title or something like that, it would in no way shape or form restrict or open up access that would not otherwise be allowed by normal registered members.

Lyric,

Everybody already has access to upload thier own avatar, and we do not restrict people to only upload X amount of megs of attachments. This would, I feel, discourage people from posting multiple hacks or mods since there are people that contribute greatly to the site in terms of actual modding ability, but may not neccesarily want to contribute in terms of a monetary amount. Since the site is built upon people modding the game, this is not an area that I would go into.

Regards.
Delphy

[rog3er]

OK just my two cents here. I think all of the ideas are good ones. However I do think some people with low maturity issues may gripe about special avatars and such not. So my idea would be this. People who are "regular contributors" and sign up for the 5$ a month plan, could possibly get a limited ammount of storage space on the site. Kind of like an email box has. This they could use for their uploads. Others who cant afford to donate, could still post downloads but theyd only be available for say 2 weeks or so and then deleted. This would conserve space and also give an intangible and not noticable bonus to regular subscribers. Just an idea. :) anything to keep this site going works for me.
NoNoNo! Hackers and object creators shouldn't have to pay in the first place. It's the hack & object USERS (like myself) who have the oppurtunity and (depending on thier sense of ethics) the obligation to contribute monetarily.

[~kathy~]

A calendar with nudes of the guys from this site would raise money as well. I nominate Eric to drop his pants for the cause.

[Az777]

Hrmm...

I'm thinking that keeping the donation button up and adding optional donating methods would be beneficial. Western Union and a P.O. box or address to send donations to would help those out of the country or those people who don't want to donate online for various reasons.

Opening a MTS merchandise purchase 'store' page would also be a good way to make some xtra money and give a choice of shirts or mugs or mousepads, etc. This opening could always be done after a test marketing run. I believe it would be better to offer shirts, etc., to those people willing to straight out buy them instead of as a general donation reward.

Also, someone had mentioned the possibility of a division of class, etc., if supporters got a particular icon. Instead, I think a special batch of avatars could be made and used by anyone who donated/supported. There's probably more Tshirt design ideas out there than shirts to put them on, so why not make supporter avatars out of some instead.

Since recognition is desired by some folks, why not open a new thread that lists the names (or pseudos) of that months donators. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can do so, too. The donation amount doesn't have to be displayed so there's no 'more generous than the other guy' issues. A monthly drawing of the donator names for a MTS merchandise 'prize' would be doable if the staff thinks it's affordable.

I've found that most high-dollar donators tend to want recognition and appreciation more than material things.

:turtle:

[GRIM_REPAIR]

Here's my two cents (pun intended)!

Forgot T-shirts! My bagpipe band tried that and it was a wash (you always end up with overstock, and the intitial outlay is annoying). Plus mailing all that stuff is a headache.

Here's another idea: Sell CD's of the site's contents.

Yeah, I know this goes against the whole "Free" idea. And you would have to get permission from everyone (ugh, more work!). But this has the added benifit of lowing your bandwidth (Hmm....I don't need to downloard 650Mb of stuff...I'll just buy the CD). The best would be to add an added value browser/installer to get on/off your downloads folder (clean installer sort of does this already). Also CD's are sort of cheap to make, and cheaper to mail (then say t-shirts).

Also make all the "Visible Post Elements" off by default for new accounts. Also, encourage people to turn these off to lower bandwidth.

But $60 a year, is a bit much. Heck that's what I paid for TS2. Then again everything's expensive when your an unemployed system administrator playing TS2 too much.

[rog3er]

rog3er:

But if we want to contribute, we should be able to. Most of us understand the service we are getting at no cost to us and don't mind supporting it as we can.
I agree. :agree:

[rog3er]

A calendar with nudes of the guys from this site would raise money as well. I nominate Eric to drop his pants for the cause.
I like the idea of the calendar! However, I would like one of the women. Maybe eric can get you to volunteer! :howdy:

[kandoo34]

<Mental calculation>... $5 is, uhhhh, about £2.65?? I could afford that ;-)

I think a combination is a good idea; keep the ordinary donations link going, with monthly "appeals". If people will sign up for a regular donation, that is fantastic, and something to show the bank manager in case of overdrafts :argh: Could you set it up as a direct debit type thing rather than waiting for people to remember, as well as relying on memories? 'Cause my memory is crap, and I *would* forget. If £2-odd came straight out of my bank, I wouldn't even notice it. (Yay for the current exchange rates LOL).

Auctions are fun, but it might be better to sign up at ebay or similar, so that you get some kind of protection - also, then others could auction for MTS2, with proceeds coming to you.

Having a small "supporter's store" as a side venture is a good idea. If you had a small stock of t-shirts, mugs, hats, pens, bumper stickers, whatever, you could have a permanent shop open - there are free small 'shopping trolley' programmes available, but I can't remember where off-hand - we used a free one when we first opened our retail site, I could try and track it down? What country are you in? I know of a few promo companies that are quite reasonable in the UK. It would be good to have the same items modded into the game, available to supporters (regular or occasional). Or does that smack too much of "pay-site"? If so, have the mods anyway for free ;-)

Most plausible right now is to set up an auction forum/ebay membership, and set up the regular supporters. Work on the shop idea in the background, getting costings/artwork etc.

[seeingstars]

I voted supporter which I can easily afford to do. I just wanted to say that a T-shirt would be kinda cool too if the logistics of getting those to us wasn't so daunting. Aren't you guys in Ireland or something? Shipments overseas would cost quite a bit.

Still, it would be fun to see just how many people stop you on the street when you're wearing a MTS2 shirt and start arguing with you about something they object to about the site or start wanting to have your baby because they feel they've met their sole mate or something. ;)

[electric]

I like the supporter idea. I'd definately buy a t-shirt too.Im not aquainted with paypal yet,i'll have to check it out to see more on it but i dont have CC so i dont know how id go.I've no problem donating here,you guys do such a great job and everyone is helpful & informative.Anyway, i live here lol

Go the tshirts too.Like an annual thing

[Marlomkr]

I would go suporter, but like many I am lucky on a weekly basis that I have a positive in my account. So I would at this time not be able to help, that is one reason i have not been able to donate as of yet, but I do have plans to.. Bad thing about donating is Pay pal, I can't stand them they charge you to add a card, which i would have to do in order to donate. Is there any other way I could send money or refundable cans.. lol

[jacktoon]

How about keeping things as they are and open up another smaller site for the non sims stuff like , cartoons?

[kzlyh1947]

I vote supporter and would gladly be a supporter. Although, I would prefer not having the special icon or notation.

I spend a lot of time here at MTS2 and would like to see it stay around until (and beyond) Sims 3 is "born." :D So I'll definitely do what I can to help.

The T-shirts and Auctions are nice ideas but I think the logistics of it all would be a nightmare. :fright:

[dilandauluv5]

I voted supporter. Any information that would give credit to the supporter should only be displayed on their user page though. That way, if you really want to know who gave MTS2 money, it would be up to you to make the effort to look for yourself. :anime:

[TortureTheNannies]

Option Two:
MTS2 Supporter.
The only difference between a normal member and a Supporter is perhaps a doodad icon thingy under their avatar - nothing else.


Eve and MTS2 have the right attitude. My objection rises from a worry that 50,000 members of the human species cannot possibly adopt that attitude unanimously. Some lost soul will believe a support icon creates an uber class that they think has extra rights of some sort.
However, the option I reject is also the most efficient and lowest overhead to generate revenue for this site.

I'm voting for the T-shirt idea BUT I want anything other substituded for t-shirts. keychains, wooden nickles, paper plates with glitter designs.. I'll read suggestions and agree with somebody's item idea.

[~kathy~]

I have posted the idea for a calendar in the adult section and general discussion sections. Anyone interested in this please contact me.

[James009]

Are there any other options? Advertising on the server? Hosting other sites?

[dsk3801]

Supporter is a great option -- I'd do it in a heartbeat. It's like pledging to PBS -- you don't do it for any "reward", you do it because you appreciate the site and the hard work and expense involved in freely providing a useful and entertaining service.

[PsycitzoFREEK]

Well.. at the moment i haven't been to active on this site BUT... You guys are all amazing . I would rather much support you guys then some other MONSTER sites ... "mentioning no TSR names" LOL . I think cafexpress is a great idea , I would deffinitly buy a mousepad,coffecup, perhaps a teeshirt. The problem is i am just recently getting things in order with a job , then comes waiting for two weeks for the first paycheck. But, i agree with the previous voters saying "don't put all your eggs in one basket" & i think killing 8 birds with one stone is better then one on one :Pimp: Anywho i would deffinitly like the option of supporting too but i think it would be better to stick for that option to what it is now,except maybe other options of payment . Some people have horrible experiences with banks & credit cards me being one i'm 20 and have allready been in thousands of dollars of debt,which thankfully have recently payed off. But if that will be the only option i would deffinilty be down in supporting ,i just don't know about 5$ a month consecutivly. I think i might be able to shell out maybe 30-40$ one month then perhaps only a 1$ or maybe none the next . Like everyone's been saying things happen & change. Plus ME-only having dial up really sucks trying to get downloads. BUt then again in my case im trying to move out of my parents house ,$$$ is a pain in the ass .But hook me up with some funny asscesories or teeshirts & i will try my best . Thanks guys for reading my rant or whatnot. Hopefully i'll become a big poster ,i like the work everyon's been doing .- Freek :D-
O yeah
p.s "We don't need no stinking icons" lol

[Sims2DW]

I am sure this has been thought of, not sure if it will work, but. How about dividing sections of the site onto different servers, donated servers, that are donated by the community. We (DazzlyWorks & Simations) are getting a dedicated server with up to 1200GB bandwidth a month, now this won't cover your entire site but we can give up part of our server for a section of your website? Just a thought...

[Inge Jones]

It's not that bad an idea Sims2DW. I have some spare space too.

[nobbydog]

It should stay as it is coz you always get way over your needed amount already....and if you ask for more in the future,then we will give more...you just have to ask

[Rayv3nsSH4D0W]

I like the shirt Idea, but I think that Supporter/Sponsors would be the best way to start off. I, myself would not mind owning a MTS2.com shirt.

[bobmonkey]

i vote against MTS2 supporter becuase i think it sounds a bit like habbo club, and sounds like a hierarchy. don't throw stuff at me please. oh, and where is the spell check thingy, i cannot find it.

[SimilarSam]

I already have a ponytail. :D

My vote is for MTS2 Supporter option. I'd go for that.

[upinout]

I voted for MTS2 supporter, but I agree with others that I would rather the icon go in the user profile, not by the user name.

Regardless, I still want a t-shirt too.

[Bortai_Degera]

It's not that bad an idea Sims2DW. I have some spare space too.

I also have space to spare. Heck we could all probably come up with some way to keep the costs down by mirroring or hosting downloads, etc :)

[eunmi38]

I like the supporter idea, because $5/month is low. Do y'all have a paypal acct set up? That would be ideal since either cc or checking acct can be used.

[KKai]

I did not vote because under my current situation I am unable to donate any money online.

I like the idea of MTS2 support.
However, I do want to voice my position in against the idea of different suport option (5/10/15/etc.)

The primary reason is that the privilege of being a donor may be taken away from many people. I am sure that there will be more than 100 members here who will support the site. Under the min amount, $US 5, there will only be 100 privilege positions available (the monthly cost is $500). To increase the amount that one can contribute the site monthly will lower the number of donors, and so the privilege to be a donor.

[tatsel9]

Supporter idea is the way I would go but there would have to be checking acct or money order set up so you could pay I will not use a credit card on line I have two checking accounts one I use on line and odd stuff and I keep cash to the amount. Just watching my back I have been stung before! This site is best site around I hear about it all the time at other sites even the main sims2 site you would be crazy not to support this in some way I am new at this I will put up my first object soon and meshes for long hair on girls and guys? THANK YOU MODTHESIMS2 AND EVERY ONE WITH UPLOADS!!! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- :rofl: ---------------------------------------------------{TAKE CARE OF YOUR SELF} AS CHII WOULD SAY :bunny:

[sachemeq]

Have ya'all thought about not hosting pictures except for downloads?
I'm not sure how things work, but I have seen an onslaught of picture threads lately.

[Melodyway17]

The supporter is a good idea - a) it allows people with not so much income to help a site they adore so much, or enjoy spending time on, b) the results could be faster, depending on the number of supports - 5 a month is already 60 a year - times that by maybe a 30-100 supports...oooooo.

[Delphy]

sachemaq,

I know, and thats why we have turned off attachments in GD and Sims Chit Chat.

[daysies]

sachemaq,

I know, and thats why we have turned off attachments in GD and Sims Chit Chat.
Yay! No more "post your most [adjective] Sim here" threads... *snicker*

Edit:
Not that I thought those threads were useless (well, maybe some of them...)

[maxxie]

I go with supporter as well - experience here shows that most people are honourable (even if we have some textual jousting) and I think if everyone gave what they could afford you'd see a great benefit. Also agree with the others that stuff like T-shirts etc as a sideline is a good idea.

[ilikefishfood]

Many of us would be happy to make donations, or be monthly supporters, but have the problem that PayPal is not available in many countries (like mine). I think donations would increase significantly if there was an alernate means of donating (direct payment by credit card, money order, etc). It's not that we don't have credit cards, but tat Pay Pal only accepts them from a very limited list of countries.

If you do go the supporter route with only Pay Pal as a means of supporting this amazing (I practically live here) site, it's going to be the same prob for many of us who would happily give.

[lobstergirl]

I want to buy a shirt but I am also interested inw aht you have to auction too. I'm an avid ebayer so I kinda wanna see. :) Let me know what's up.

[Katt1367]

I voted for supporter, but only because there was no sausages lol

I just donated 20.00 today, it's not much but my hubby let's me spend 30 a month on sims2 stuff. I already spent the rest,or I would have given it all. I'd rather donate here every month.

Whatever you all decide will be fine by me but I can't bid on Delphy's ponytail cause my hubby will kill me if I pay money for some guys hair.

[Mutantbunny]

I had to really think about this. I don't have any gripes with the site--it loads fast most of the time--other than the gripe it's being overrun with the younger set which bums me....Ah well, too bad so sad and all that.... I am not in any position at this time to partake in any fund raising (expect for funds for me :)) so I thought for a while may be I shouldn't put in my 2 cents. Then I changed my mind.

My thought: I think you should employ all of the options. What can it hurt?

You can have a 'lot' of T shirts printed up and offer them online (a WOO HOO like in the game would be great) and should be easy enough to come up with even by yourselves if it came to that (I know I could help with design and planning and there must be a ton most of others.) A few basic designs, some iron aplique or if you know someone with a silk screen, a link on the front page.....also other items could be come up pretty easy (a woohoo keychain bob, stuff like that--this is something I'm good at if you need ideas.)

An ebay type auction with any goods that you can come up with (the funner the better?) would work to bring in revenue and others could contribute goods too, just like ebay.... And Delphys tail would be way fun. So would that new tricycle. :)

If I could afford it I'd be a regular supporter--But I can not at this time as rent isn't even in the bank--there's probably lots of us that are in the same boat and may not be a blunt as I am and not wish to admit it--but it's a good idea too. Why not?

Then those that want to 'donate' whenever they can. Why not this too? Some of us that go month to month might find this one the easiest. I gotta say tho--it smacks of a paysite and we all know how that goes over with this crowd (and I agree with them.)


So, I pushed the supporter option--but only because there wasn't an 'all the above' option.

[hardonmachin]

I think the suporter and the autions are a good idea.... but I certainly don't think you should stop the regular donations... The first thing auctioned should be delphy's ponytail :p

[lostdeviant]

I'd like to donate but I don't have a credit card... could I do a bank deposit to an account? any bank with branch offices in Mexico city would be fine :- ) for example Citybank, HSBC are both international and have offices here (since they bought national banks that is).

[lostdeviant]

I'd think a better idea would be to have one banner ad + donations. or are banner ads evil?

[dolphin26]

First off, let me say that the transparency of this site’s financial resources is great. I really like the donation details link I just noticed on the front page! It makes me glad to contribute, and I really like the idea of doing a small set amount a month (like $5) so that MTS2 can plan monthly expenses instead of having big fluctuations in donations over time.

Some here have criticized having an icon next to your name on posts if you are a supporter, but I for one like the idea of such an icon as long as it is small and non-animated. If we’re not going to give supporters any other special privileges, let’s at least give them a public acknowledgement of their support. Having this be in a visible place, such as in their posts, gives a strong incentive for people that can to be a supporter. I don’t think just having it in the profile is enough of an incentive – people just don’t look there much.

I would never look down on anyone that can’t be a supporter, and many people contribute in vastly larger ways on this site, whether it be as a moderator, content contributor, providing good beta testing feedback, or even just answering newbie questions. But I don’t think having a tiny, non-animated icon next to your name in a post is too much to ask if you’re contributing financially on a monthly basis.

Also, for what it’s worth, I’m always looking for T-Shirts that reflect what I like to do, so a MTS2 shirt sounds great to me. I’m not sure that the initial outlay sounds worth it, though; the supporter idea sounds much better from a financial standpoint.

[dolphin26]

I did not vote because under my current situation I am unable to donate any money online.

I like the idea of MTS2 support.
However, I do want to voice my position in against the idea of different suport option (5/10/15/etc.)

The primary reason is that the privilege of being a donor may be taken away from many people. I am sure that there will be more than 100 members here who will support the site. Under the min amount, $US 5, there will only be 100 privilege positions available (the monthly cost is $500). To increase the amount that one can contribute the site monthly will lower the number of donors, and so the privilege to be a donor.

Well, I'm not a big fan of the 5/10/15 option either, but more because I wouldn't want to contribute more than $5/month. :D

I do disagree with you, however, in that too much money would never be a problem, provided people aren't giving more than they feel comfortable giving. If, for example, we grow to 300 members contributing $5 a month, but only have say $1000 in monthly costs, we could conceivably have $500 extra a month. If this happened, we could perhaps have a monthly award given to the best content in a particular category, with extra cash going to the winner. So no one need be prevented from having the privilege of being a donor.

Still, it is probably a little premature to be talking about excess cash. :)

[Mutantbunny]

That extra cash, if it appears and I suggest getting a bank account up to a six month cushion, could also go to various things like Tsumani relief.

[deb528us]

A calendar with nudes of the guys from this site would raise money as well. I nominate Eric to drop his pants for the cause.


Oh YEAH! I vote for this one! Time to drop trou boys ;)


Seriously, I vote for the supporter idea, with no icon thingy to broadcast who can and cannot donate. I would be more than happy to donate when I can. A few less espressos won't hurt....that bad.

[DMDye]

I voted for supporter, and I wouldn't mind an Icon/thingy under the username as a recognition - but, right now, I can't afford $60 (both my husband & I are unemployed); and I can't commit even $5/month until this situation changes... Why not bring it down to $3/month or a 1 time payment of $36 (sorry for the analogy - but pretty close to what an EZboard EzSupporter is)?

Whoever can contribute more should be given the option to do so.. broaden it to 3/5/10/15 monthly or in a lump-sum, and... keep the "Contribute" button open.

Plus, I'm sure we all have 'stuff' we can contribute to an auction... we donate the stuff, winner pays for straight shipping (no charging for the packaging nor the gas & time to go to the post office) and all the auction money goes directly to this board (winner pays MTS2 directly).

Even if it's just 'gag' stuff - I have loads of things I'd be willing to contribute that I'm sure are not worth over $1, but maybe someone would like... (maybe just for the entertainment value) - at least they won't end up in the dumpster and hey, 30 things @ $1 each would be $30 extra the site would have that I can't afford to give outright.

[cardine]

I like the supporter idea, but I think that if you can't afford to pay $5 a month, then you should have to do a task (for example sign-up for a website that would make ModTheSims) $5 instead of having to pay the $5. It would be a little more complicated but it would probably yield more money.

[Delphy]

cardine,

We aren't going to *force* people to have to do something to be a supporter. If they want to contribute a monthly fee, they can do, but equally those that want to pay randomly are just as welcome to do that :)

It's really about getting some kind of base income so that we can more easily track shortfalls.

[Eric]

I say that MTS2 should auction off delphy in pieces (not just his pony tail). start with his toes and work up from there. :)

[crazypinecone]

I'm really interested in seeing that pony tail picture.... when is it going to get posted?? I'm sure I'm not the only one :bump:

[jillysolo]

I would not mind contributing on a regular basis but I am too scatter-brained to remember these pesky monthly bills. The only way I stay out of trouble is automatic deductions. How about letting people have the option to pay their choosen amount monthy, every 3 months or every 6 months. And if a person commits to being a supporter, a reminder would be helpful. And continue excepting donations from anyone who wants to contribute occasionly.

[Grumpapotamus_Rex]

Hmmm..... Well I voted for the T- shirt thing.
I think the T-shirts would be great if it was just the Mod The Sims 2 logo.
Also would hats or toques be available at all? That would be really cool too.
I have 5 sisters and we all love the Sims 2 and Mod The Sims 2 and I could not think of a better gift for their birthdays and whatnot ( sort of on the topic.... I have 1 brother and I bought him a whole spam outfit online for his b-day as a joke...... it was hilarious! But then I gave him a hundred bucks to ease the hurt of recieving a gift like that) so if you guys had hats and T-shirts and socks or whatever I would be a big customer. Keychains too maybe ( I collect them).

But there wasn't the option to vote for 2 things. I also think that there should be options. Maybe you could have T-shirts and such for sale and people could still be the option to support the website. Some people may want to buy T-shirts and other Mod The Sims 2 gear and you could have them on sale regularly, and some people may want to pay $5 a month. I would certainly do both. I wouldn't be buying clothing every single month but I would pay $5 a month for what I consider the best Sims 2 site on the internet.

And if you are going to leave 2 options open why not leave them all open? It seemed like a really diverse vote to me and maybe it is just convenient for everyone to support Mod The Sims 2 in a different way.

I also think for the people who support monthly there should be a monthly gift of sorts. Maybe a really nice object or set or something that the people who dont support don't have the option to download. I'm not saying they don't deserve it or something but if you come up with really nice things people will be let's say inspired to pay the monthly support.

Anyways that is just my 2 cents but I would consider that as the best option.

[peaches_n_cream]

I think the supporter idea is great - min $5 per mth - as that is pretty standard - if not cheap in comparison. I think MS2 is luved enough for everyone to support it like it should be - you provide all the stuff we want but hasn't been included in the game!

Cheers,
Vanessa
:beer:

[kaleighgraham]

Hi... :howdy:
Here's my two cents, as late as it may be...always takes me a bit cuz I think on it awhile. I'm sure most if not all's been said before. As with most of the ones I've read, I would go with whatever you chose. There is nothing wrong with a pay site, after all, people have to pay their expenses. It's not like we're all rich and bandwidth is cheap.

Everyone could afford just a couple $ a month. Maybe give a choice to pay in increments - read in monthly increments 1/3/6/9/12 - (and/or if they do downloads, by downloads/bandwidth, like Simhosts.com or whatever that site does, its a bit complicated for my tastes tho, maybe someone else can figure that out, too much math for me)

I would also buy a t-shirt or whatever. And, seeing as how you guys are so inventive, maybe you could save up your ideas and put one good idea out there each month to sell? That way you can make extra money each month or something like that. (I'm a Donater/I'm a Test Subject/ whatever)

As for Auctions -Ponytail (I'd bid but be more than happy if you didn't send it to me, if I won it :D ) /Special Sims Items/Special Icon by the name - Perhaps you could make a couple of special icons/items, one for the biggest donater, for the month/year/whatever...one who donates most regularly-something along those lines as well as special ones for just donating period.

Everyone loves this site cuz 1) you are the first out with everything and come up with the best ideas, 2) you're so cool, 3) there is a variety of people and personality types that can generally get along well with anyone, AND 4)last but not least, you guys are very nice about helping people out with their Sims problems.

I'm pretty sure anything you decide to do will be acceptable simply because it's you. (hey - it's the truth, aint nothing wrong with that). I'm also sure, as with any other post I've put up, I'll think of 25 other things to write after I've posted - lucky you :nana: - I rarely, if ever, edit

[Rrngdrgn]

:2cents:

I would like to buy a t-shirt (if it was on a black shirt). I love all those t-shirts that have funny little sayings on them... what can I say... I like to giggle...

However, I would feel a little strange about a shirt that said something about getting my sausage modded at MTS2.com... my mind tends to be in the gutter most of the time... :D :Slap:

I just wanted to say thanks for keeping the members here informed about the $ situation and asking our opinions. A lot of sites simply don't care what their members think.

I haven't donated and I feel bad. :weep: But I haven't had any extra money recently. I will certainly donate some money when I get around to doing my taxes!

[LordHellscream]

supporter option is probably preferable, i have already donated a little bit of money and i dont mind donate a bit more to keep the wonderful site up

[StoneKrush]

I'd Love a T-shirt... Then I can look like my sim :blink: :confused:

But donating is also good... hmm, the many choices...

[Khiadra]

Rather than marking supporters with a special icon, why not just make it so only supporters get to show a .sig and personal avatar?

Obviously the bandwidth used in showing avatars is practically nil, but if you're attempting to minimise costs, every bit should help. Avatars and .sigs don't add anything to a post but people like to have them, so why not tie it into the supporter's package?

[Eric]

actually khiadra... i disagree concerning the signature...

it serves (for me anyways) a valuable purpose. i use it as a reminder to people that visit my forum(s) to read the initial post for information concerning my mod(s) which may help save me time having to post the same answers to the same questions multiple times.

at least i like to think it helps concerning that :)

[Rooby]

I just finished moving out of a house we lived in for six years, and I really don't want any more stuff. Ever. We are disgusted with our accumulation and consumption right now.

I would personally be comfortable with a $5/month donation, but would rather do it in a quarterly or annual payment.

After contributing, I would like a special notation next to my avatar, and I would like to be referred to as Your Highness.

>;)

MTS2 is GREAT. We are staying in temporary quarters with NO INTERNET - GASP - and I was recalling from memory yesterday how to make a nice, cute, young nanny for my simlings. My nanny is adorable and far more pleasant now.

I really appreciate the generosity of the folks who post here and the folks who maintain the site. I've moderated for free before and I recognize a work of love when I see one.

Rooby
www.webofthread.com

[Britva]

While I voted for the pony tail, and yes I would have a use for it. I too like the idea of the supporter...

[Delphy]

What on earth could people possibly *use* the ponytail for... other than to make a voodoo doll? :D

[Darkmoon]

Well Delphy....if it works...who knows whats going to happen to you...:devil:

[lunameow]

If I could afford it I'd be a regular supporter--But I can not at this time as rent isn't even in the bank--there's probably lots of us that are in the same boat and may not be a blunt as I am and not wish to admit it--but it's a good idea too. Why not?

I'll echo this. I'd love to be a regular supporter, but that would cut drastically into my monthly ramen noodle and day-old bread budget. (And for those who may have seen my name on a pay site somewhere, I got that from someone else as a Christmas gift. :P) It's a great idea, and I especially like the part about not taking things away from people just for not having spare money. Maybe as much as folks here love customization, a "platinum level" option could be to add their own tagline under their avatar or something.

I really dig the auction idea, especially the pewter fairy/dragon figures. I have a hunch a LOT of folks on here are into stuff like that. T-shirts would also kick flufftails, with logos just crying out to be made, such as "Play it YOUR way."


As for the remark about the "younger set," there's nothing wrong with us younger folks. (Umm... 31 IS young, right? :Panda: )

[tmadrk]

For a site of this caliber I could and would pay $5.00 a month, maybe even $10.00 a month. Just don't take away my MTS2 website! Heck if worse comes to worse I would hock my car, my computer, my dog, or whatever just so I could afford to pay for having this site. UMMM...now that I think about it, forget the dog he is too valuable to me. I would rather have him than the car. Good roomies are hard to find you know.

[fido]

I voted for supporter about a week ago, but as with all things in life, the unexpected happened. You see, I just got out of the hospital, not only did I have the privilage of nearly empting out my familes meager savings account to pay for the opportunity to lie (or is it lay) in an uncomfortable hospital bed, while being chastised for making too much noise as I passed kidney stones, ( the male version of child birth, pain wise, according to doctors) because they felt anything stronger than aspirin might mask a secondary problem. Any way, I guess what I am trying to say is "stuff" happens. Good intentions can't pay the bills, keep you options open. I love this site, while in the hospital I missed it, even through the pain. Sounds dumb, but true. I will donate when and as much as I can, but you can't make plans on those types of promises. The site comes first, true belivers will be happy no mater what you decide, as long as you remain on line. I hope this made sense, I finally got some pain killers, not from the hospital, but from my doctor, oh ya, another bill to pay. Does it ever end.

Fido

[Britva]

:D My hobby is creating period clothing for the American Fur Trade era. I try to get my hands on any friend's ponytail that cuts their hair. Most of the time it is used as scalp-locks for Great Plains style native clothing, or for a dolly to match a little girl's costume I make. Nylon hair from salons just doesn't feel right.

[lesmode463]

I like the $5 a month Idea as well, but I dont like the idea of more icons for more money.

But I do have a question, what op system is the site run under?

[killer12]

I'll be a supporter! :P

Is it possible to make the monthly donation variable (user's choice of $5, $10, $15, $20, etc., per month)?

I completely agree some months are differnet differnt month support options would be great :beer: :blah: :mrpantha: :fallen:

[AlbinoNoodle]

I would like to vote for the supporter option, but I can't sign up for Paypal, believe me, I have tried. :(

I would also love to have a T-shirt, but realistically it's not going to generate a reliable monthly income for the site, so that may not be the best option.

For those of you interested in the ponytail..Delphy has admitted that it looks like a dead rat :D or was it a wet rat ?:confused: You may want to think again. ;)

[Delphy]

Just so you all know, we have implented the MTS2 Supporter option. :) Thanks for all the input!

I may still auction off the ponytail though...

[Zeljka]

Stumbled in late (it said serious and that just didn't sound as fun as everything else here) but I'm glad you went with supporter.

Don't understand people against the idea when the only thing that's changing is that you're telling us you need a bit of help from those who can afford it.

I have never paid for a site, nor bought online (paranoid) but considering what I've received here for free has kept the game more interesting than any single expansion pack will... I'm more than happy to donate. What's 3 less coffee a month when I'm still left with 124? I love the idea that you aren't taking away anything from those who can't help. (yes, I remember the days when $10 was too much for me and once I have kids, it may be again)

But, I am paranoid and too stupid for paypal... I would like an option to pay in another way, and being too disorganized to do anything regularly, I'd like to send it once a year...

[deadkytten]

I like the auction idea. You could post new idems for auction each week/day on the homepage. I am definetly curious about what you would auction and can see mysef participating if I see an idem I like. The supporter idea seems good since everyone likes that idea, but the auction is my favorite, for Delphy's ponytail (that I would not bid for) and random wierd goodies.

[mcwick]

I like the auction idea (mainly because it means you'll get rid of your junk, and I can buy it cheap and add it to MY junk). Another option to this is to have the people on here auction stuff off too, with proceeds going to MTS2.

I think that, in combination with the donation icon thingy is a good idea. As soon as I get a job, and the money associated with it, I'd gladly donate money. But I think the auctions could and would be fun, too.

Personally, T-shirts are of little use for me. I just got out of college and am inundated with them already, and, as soon as I have my "real" job, I won't have much use for a T-shirt. I'd probably wear it while gardening or working out, where it wouldnt' exactly advertise well for the site. T-shirts also have a much lower profit-margin than any of the other stuff.

[Lady_Wilk]

I voted earlier today and had to vote and run :sprint: I would totally pay to be a MTS2 Supporter. I pay on another site for Sims2 items. I don't think it is a waste of money, I work hard for my money and I do with it as I please. Alot of people think it's silly to pay for sites like this. I am the type of person, I want what I want when I want it. Everything has a price. This is a GREAT site. If I need help theres a whole community here to help you. Theres always a Mod on to help if your in need. The objects and hacks are up to date when needed or if theres a problem their on it. I would like a T-shirt option too. With the T-shirt thing, I'd just leave them blank and when a request is made then print that type of shirt. I made that mistake when I screen printed T-shirts for my business and was stuck with the least liked ones. Just an idea. I totally support the pay option though....... :up: When I can't sleep at night :coffee: this is my place to hang.


Lady

[ParsimoniousKate]

I can't believe people are whining about having the supporter option. I think a $30-$60 a year supporter option would be a great idea. Have you considered expanding the advertising on the site, you could have a non-advert version for those with supporter status, which obviously equates to the same forum but quicker page loads, not having to have annoying flashy ads. Obviously you'd get the income from the adverts.

I don't know if I'm allowed to post this but your projected costs seem a bit on the high side if you're only using 60Gb per day, our host (www.servermatrix.com) does 20Mbit lines from $199 a month, they will chuck in 1Gb ram upgrades for $40 a month or a one of fee of $300, and obviously as you can squeeze 220Gb a day out of a 20Mbit duplex that should give you room to breathe. Their service and tech support is good, so far its been the cheapest non-reseller hosting I've managed to find.

[Gaiasdaughter]

all fundraising ideas are good, I love this site and will donate later (I promise, my daughter is coming over in 2 minutes so I am on the run) :blah:

Don't know if I will remember to donate every month though? :Slap: But I will try :beer:

And thanks for everything guys, you are the best of the rest! :D

[Vettvilling]

I sincerely apologize if this idea has already been put forth in one form or another, but I am presently not of a mind to scan all of the posts having been contributed as they seem repetitive and I am weary. So far as my glancing appraisal of the pro-offered options has determined, there is no drawback to offering the proposed Supporter program; yet, it would no less prove advisable to retain avenues by which sporadic donations might be contributed as is the present circumstance. An unfortunate drawback to the format of this poll is such that certain of these ideas prove compatible and could be enacted to varying degrees simultaneously, but each person is given the option of supporting only one.

In either case, my vote reflects the sound quality of your Supporter plan, but I would also desire to note that I think the option for regular donations should remain open.

With regards to the t-shirts, I observe that the level of loyalty and appreciation for this site is such that were you to gauge the demand you could establish a set number to produce and they would be probably sell in fairly short order.

As per auctioning your possessions, I can't help but think it sounds desperate, even if you are eager to be rid of them, it just seems like a measure as befits a last stand.

(Un)fortunately, I have no opinion to offer relating to the ponytail plan.

Whatever the result, I have been visiting this site with regularity since it's conception and would direly dislike to see it fail, I wish the best of luck to whatever endeavor(s) you undertake. Thank you.

[nanatoana]

I think the supporter idea is a great idea, as well as keeping the donation option open for those that can't be a supporter. I have not donated yet as I have been a member for about 4 hours now! I have been to your site a lot lately, and except for earlier today when I couldn't get on your site, I have found a lot of useful help, tutorials, and downloads here.

If you need any help, I would be more than happy to help out, free of charge. I'm not really a creater of objects, meshes, or the like, but I do have a working knowledge in other areas.

[oceanbreeze]

I like the supporter idea but i think you should have the option of say 3 months, 6 moths, 1 year etc just in case something comes up or you could have it set up so you pay 5 dollars a month and cancel anytime just because sometimes things pop up and you are no longer able to pay that 5 dollars just a thought, another idea is to do donation packages and have them available to supporters and anyone else who donates that month. Ok thats my whole two cents.

[sweettoothlady]

Instead of t-shirt I think mugs or mouse pads would be a better idea. With T-shirt there are all different sizes and that's bad. You want to think of something that has no size and is universal. Does that make since?

[BionicSquirrel33]

ok a few comments:

Merchandise: T-shirts are a great idea I think, though I wouldn't buy one myself because shipping to NZ would probably cost as much as the shirt itself. Mouse mats? who uses a rollerball mouse anymore? Mugs I like too. I say do this further down the track when there's spare cash in the kitty to pay for it upfront

Donation: Is what I prefer and will do when I have a few debts paid off

Supporter: Though I would happily pay $5 or more a month to the only TS2 site I think is worth it, Some months I'm a lot better off than others so I would prefer erratic donations eg $10 one month then $5 the next then $30 3 months later.

Ponytail: Ummm got one of my own ty :D

Auctions: Would be a bit of a headache to do I think but if you're looking to get rid of that stuff anyway then what can it hurt :P

[BlackKat13]

I know EXACTLY what we should do, we should sell MTS2 panties! Not sim panties, real panties! Get the MTS2 logo printed on 'em!!! And for men, we can sell "man-ties"! Good idea?

[spitinkitten]

Count me in on the monthly donation thing. Well worth it!

[Sims2SoapStyle]

I know I am late in this running but I just posted a new thread about t-shirts cause I really want to expand my t-shirt collection and I want a sims 2 t-shirt and would rather get it from here than from Maxis or EA cause I already gave them $85 for the two games. I would ask around members and see who would be the most reliable to make t-shirts themselves or go to cafepress.com which does the Foamy cartoon merchandise. I would also like a mousepad or coffee mug. I would pay a monthly support fee, but the hubby and I decided to take our wack at the "try for baby" command and money will be tight.. but I am getting a little bit of tax money in soon and I would LOVE to buy a MTS2 item or two or three..

[Torch654]

In other forums I use #2 works well, although the people there are older and spending a lot more on there Hobby (please nobody take offense none meant). Good luck with this.

[pa3n]

supporter is a very good idea. i would love to help this site. if paypal would be available here in our country though. :blink:

[foreverjadon]

I wouldn't have a problem with the supporter idea because there is such a wealth of information here at MTS2, but couldn't a combination of efforts be done.

Also being that Delphy has had the haircut, why not have the auction with a condition? A small lock of the hair going to the highest bidder and the rest donated in the bidder's name to one of the organizations that create wigs for cancer patients! That way it's an absolute good!

:elephant:

[Loony064]

I totally agree with Jadon, especially about the part about donating in 1 of the bidders names to a Cancer Foundation that creates wigs - i feel strongly about that cause and am actually growing my hair to make a wig for some1 who has lost their own hair due to cancer.

[Inge Jones]

Hi, please don't be offended, but there are two schools of thought on adding to old threads. If the person really felt the need to comment on a topic that was no longer current, would it be better to add it to the sleeping thread or start a new one? The only other alternative would be once a topic's been discussed it can't be mentioned again, and I don't think anyone would want that rule.

[Delphy]

Reviving this thread is fine, since it's a serious question :)

[novas-mommy]

oops my bad! :D:D
Nova-storm

[jellybeanluver]

I vote MTS2 supporter

[PixelPixie]

Personally, I'm for Options 1 or 2. (See below) I would definately buy a T-shirt to support the forum!!

Option One:
MTS2 Tshirts.
We make up a one off batch of say 200 tshirts, divided into 5 groups of different slogans [50 shirts per slogan]. Some of these slogans include "I mod your childrens games" or "Tomatoes, sausages, panites: MTS2.com" - we haven't figured all the details out yet. Please only vote for this option if you're willing to actually purchase a tshirt, otherwise there's little point in us going to all the trouble of organising them. We just want to know if you'd be interested in buying a tshirt and we'll hammer out the specifics after the poll.

Option Two:
MTS2 Supporter.
A Supporter would sign up to pay a low price - say $5 - per month. Before you all start freaking out and squealing "paysite, paysite!" with fangirl vigor, let me just stress that MTS2 will remain completly free to everbody. The only difference between a normal member and a Supporter is perhaps a doodad icon thingy under their avatar - nothing else. And the fact that they'd be helping the site out in the long term, which is always good. If you have any further ideas for a Supporter, then please comment.

[riever49]

Having already made a donation, I think that any regular user of the site should consider the supporter option. If that's what you choose, count me in. I guess I'd need to come up with an avatar. What IS an avatar?

[jjf2010]

Supporter is a great idea. Giving the supporter the option to donate monthly, quarterly, semi annually, or annually. This would fit the budget of everyone who wants to donate.

[Amish Nick]

A combination of them would be better.

The T-shirt is a great way to show off the site, get interest form others to visit and earn cash in the process but unless you plan of doing a monthly design how many people will buy the same T-shirt(s) over and over every month to help the site?

MTS2 Supporter is probably the best for it guaranties monthly cash flow for the site but not every one may want to go that way if they don't come here to often or can't afford it all the time.

The auction i think would start out good but wouldn't last long or turn into everyone sending in garbage to help that no one wants.

Donations should be on the board any how, donate what you can as you can, even thous who arnt members may want to help but not want to register.

Also include different pay options, paypal, credit card, or a mailing address for thous who don't have ether of the first two would be a good idea.

[Grapholina]

I agree with Amish Nick. If you guys had a mail in address, I would be able to give you my money. I refuse to use credit cards online since I've already been burnt.

[Bonjovibabe]

I would rather go with the supporter idea and the t-shirts. But I also think there should be options for mailing in a payment. I don't like using credit cards online either. This site is well worth supporting, its the best site around!!

[didinnedidinne]

i prefere mts2 supporter and donation when it is possible

[drunkelf]

If I lived in the U.S. I would probably buy a t-shirt, you should put some "sims screenshots" on the t-shirts, not only words...

[Drawboom]

I'm with those who vote for a variety of options. Keep the donations option, seek regular supporters, and offer T-shirts whenever you get an idea for a clever one. I'd be more than happy to support; this site is definitely worth it. But I currently don't do credit cards. If I could mail a payment count me in.

[ZenFrog76]

I would either like a TeeShirt or an auction (depending what was up for grabs...hehehe)
I like Tee Shirt idea best...everyone can have something then...

[John55]

I voted for supporter as well. Sense I just became one. I do not need T-shirts. Got plenty of T-shirts already. But I do download alot of things from here. Get alot of ideas from here. At times when I am fighting my leg pain the only time that helps keep my mind off it I logon. So! Why not support! :beer:

[RunsWithKnives]

I've run a few forums and what has worked for me is to just let people know when you need the cash. The donations will come pouring in because people don't just think to donate, but when you put up something that says, "Hey, we need to fill the till!" people do it very willingly. And for this site, I suspect you'd have a flood of $$. Just do it a bit in advace because I imagine a lot of people aren't coming here everyday, but more periodically, whereas my forums had daily traffic that was very regular. And I think you'd want to get help from the regulars and the not so regular visitors as well. So just put up the post and keep bumping it.

[TheBlindBat]

So... Why not supporter based system AND sell T-shirts?

[Cher]

My personal opinion is, buy a flat rate membership. What I mean by this is you get an option for suporting donating whatever, for one, two, three, six months or one year at a flat rate. Like some of the other sites do. The downloads and site are already free here so you get no special favors. I personally would rather do it like that instead of doing it every month.

[simplydownloadaholic]

I chose this name because this site has made me an addict of downloading. I have no problem supporting
this site, but prefer to mail in a money order.
I think the other ideas are great too.. perhaps use one for the ram upgrade and use the supporter one for the
monthly fees. I would not order a tee shirt, but we all have computers,and if you made a mouse pad I would order that cuz I can use it. My mom passed away with cancer and I would bid on Delphy's pony tail and donate it to a center. that was a very unselfish idea.

[LizzLove]

I like the supporter idea, everyone likes to have a little icon thingy under their name. T-shirts would be fun, but the shipping and such could eat up a lot of the potential profits. But still I would love to have ModTheSims2 tee. hehe.

Now all I need is a good job so I can become a supporter. ;(

Love
LizzLove

[shadow50501]

Being on a fixed income (both of us) it is really hard to donate to places even though you really want to. I am hopeing that after the bills this month there will be enough left over that I can donate here. This place has become somewhat my second home. I check in here every morning and at least 2-3 times a day. I download a considerable amount because the workmanship here is the best in my opinion. You all totally rock!!!! (See I can be groovy in my old age) :lol: Making it manditory to donate before you can download will hurt me but I would totally understand if it was needed. As to the teeshirts, bring them on, I will skimp on the grocery money for one :lol: I need to lose some weight anyway. I am tied to a chair 24-7 with a back injury and like John55 this takes away a lot of the pain by keeping my mind on other things besides the pain. I am not even supposed to be on the computer today (I had a lower epidurial this afternoon) but I couldn't not come in here, it would be a sin.

[tiggerypum]

I think that monthly supporter (or the option to donate and have it count as however many months, for those who don't want to deal with monthly $5 donations) and some sort of icon to show the person is a supporter.

I think an icon (fairly free to the site, unlike say, a coffee mug) could be a nice support 'item' to share.

What comes to question is how to do the icon(s) so that it's nice but not a huge deal. Indeed, it should not turn into a 'better than you' contest over the kind of icon or how many icons or level of support. We all know that some might scrape to find $5 a month and some wouldn't be scraping at all to send in $20.

I lean towards 1 icon for supporters of any sort. Be it a 1 time payment or monthly.

The bookkeeping for a more complex system could become a lot of work (imagine having to enter 100 $5 payments every month) and then arguments if someone's icon doesn't update correctly.

And yes, that would mean that someone donates once and they're always a supporter. It's not bad -- the icon will remind them, it will remind others, and it's no maintainence for the site managers. If it seems like a good idea (and there's space) there could be a new additional small icon added every 6 months or year and anyone who donates during that time gets an additional icon. That could give incentive for multiple donations while at the same time, still not making a huge distinction about HOW MUCH is donated, just that the person did make the effort to donate during whatever time period is posted. I mean - a 2005 donator icon, then a 2006 icon for any donations in 2006 (yeah, I'm optimistic) or something like that could still be incentive for folks to consider donating again w/o it being a huge race.

*Tig* :beer:

[eqqueen_05]

I like the idea of Supporter. Even if it is 5$ PER month, thats not a big deal. Here, let me look in my couch, ill snag you up 5$ .... Point is, the T-shirts might cost more than you make, the auction would probably work (you wouldnt believe some of the stuff that actually sells on E-bay), but you cant be sure about the 5Th option. personally i would feel bad auctioning off something that could be donated to such a good cause. Keeping this site as a donation site isnt a bad idea either, but its not a guarenteed idea. nobody can tell for sure when someone will donate. would you be keeping the same options to donate if you switched to support?

[aimlesscoyote]

I selected "Regular Donations" but would be willing to seriously consider t-shirts if they had a cute slogan or graphic.

[Metranisome]

I would really like a T-shirt!!!
Ohh and I have... 2 friends so far that are also interested!

[suiryuue]

I think instead of choosing one, you should combine them all.

[aurian]

I selected "Regular Donations" but would be willing to seriously consider t-shirts if they had a cute slogan or graphic.

I am inclined to support a site tshirt(s) as well, especially if they contained a slogan of some sort :)

[Jade]

I like the T-shirt idea and the supporter icons as well. I wouldn't really be able to donate, I'm still without a job. So having to pay before downloading would probably mean no more downloads for me. :( But, still, I get the picture.

[isana]

im liking the supporter one... but i think if someone puts down a large sum ( oh say 30 bucks and up) maybe then they can get the tshirts that seem to be so popular more incentive for bigger donations :nod:

[Max3D]

i like the idea to have a TShirt.. like i've a FireFox tShirt :D
btw i hope that MTS2 will remain free :)

[DaGama]

i love the supporeter idea but i think you should do all of em except make the t-shorts when someone pays so you dont make more than you sell

btw my friend has a v-bulletin thing and he says it only costs 160 for a lifetime membership maybe thats for low bandwith or something :blink:

i dunno he better not be lying :fight:

[fergofrog]

Hi. I really don't know how this works but if you become a supperter the get the supporter icon and they get a custom title with Supporter in front of it eg. Supporter of Hacks.

[carevans]

:baloons: the supporter option sounds good to me too.

[Aura218]

As a suggestion, a couple of sites sell "Overpriced Donation Thingies" on a continual basis. Little buttons or stickers that say the site's logo, maybe a silly/clever/cool pic or tagline, and they sell them for $3-5. IMO, this works because they're small, so people who think a tshirt is too much will be willing to stick a button on their bookbag. Also, while I think the paid-account thing is a good idea, a lot of people have the knee-jerk reaction that they won't pay for *anything* on the internet. So giving the button the up-front PR of being for donation purposes makes people feel more altruistic, less "I paid $5 for this?"

Good luck with your fund raising, and thanks for keeping the site running despite money and technical problems.

Kristi

[Priestess1974]

This is a great site....I hope it remains free. I like the t-shirt idea, but your expenditure might outweigh your income....hmmm....the auction thing is kinda cool. Maybe some of our oh so talented folk here can contribute a few items and you could auction them off. I don't know just throwing ideas out there. If I was one of the awesomely talented :grouphug: I'd be happy to contribute. When I am of more means I shall donate. :sorry: I haven't as of yet. :insane: :naughty:

[KatDunn]

Both myself & my neice (she's 9) love MtS2, as I would be more than happy to become a MtS2 Supporter, my neice would love a t-shirt! I think if MtS2 became a pay site we would have stop using it as she would cost me a fortune! :2cents: :2cents: :2cents:

[Delphy]

Hi All,

It's been a while since I checked in on this thread, but I just like to say that MTS2 has absolutely NO PLANS WHATSOEVER to ever become a paysite. It goes against my personal philosophy. :)

Regards,
Delphy

[Inge Jones]

Fine, but what about the mugs I ordered?

[danburite]

As long as MTS2 doesn't become a paysite, i'm willing to help out however I can- I draw the line at paying for downloads, but I see no problem with donating whenever I can afford it. :)

[Sita]

What about the ponytail?

[sscairns]

I like the supporter option,

But if your considering other options...And please don't shoot me for this...

If you have unlimited band width, can you consider selling advertising banner ?

A banner running across the top of the screen wouldn't affect my use of the sight, and could actually pay ALL the bills.

[ParsimoniousKate]

I like the supporter option,

But if your considering other options...And please don't shoot me for this...

If you have unlimited band width, can you consider selling advertising banner ?

A banner running across the top of the screen wouldn't affect my use of the sight, and could actually pay ALL the bills.

There's no way a single banner slot would pay all the bills of a site this size, even placed on every single page. Getting adverts for a forum isn't easy because a lot of the better advertising networks wont touch a site that has a lot of 'unmoderated' content (ie. stuff visitors say rather than stuff written by site staff), and those that will accept anyone generally pay badly. Plus managing adverts is a lot of extra hassle even if they're provided by an ad network.

[Sim Master]

I think the auction idea would be pretty cool, and I also liked the MTS2 supporter idea, but you could only vote for one. I would help out, but I have a lot of other stuff that needs to be paid off first...

[Barbie_Girl]

I think the supporter would be good but maybe a special download for supporters would be nice.

[liljinx1983]

I really hope that it stays a free site because sadly enough, I cant afford 5$ I know that sounds lame, but when your short on funds you have to place your needs above your wants :( and Id really want a membership if they were to become a pay-site. But I know that if they were to become a pay site Id scrounge up the money somehow (just dont tell my husband, he'll get jealous!) I hate this world sometimes, makes me wish that I had the life of my sims! :P

[prashanna]

I have an idea for the MTS2 supporter thing. The supporter could have the icon under their avatar, and they can also be able to change their member titles like mods can. For example mine says "Test Subject" they could be able to change it like they change a siggy.

[Meemo]

I voted for t-shirts but can I say can you please do ladies fit ones if you're going to go down this route - I don't want a great big baggy thing I end up sleeping in.

also different colours - not just black - white and grey marl as well please!!!!

I might even buy two....

[bobalina123]

i think the suppoter idea as well tha sounds cool. oh and i like the idea of being able to choose the amount u donate. thats much better. i also like the idea of auctioning off the ponytail that would be heaps cool! ;)

[3dogowner]

At this point in time, staying with the supporter, contributer option is probably the best idea. I worry that some people (although good intended), might vote for T-shirts and find out that they can't swing it after all. Although, an auction might work (even delphys pony-tail :lol). Personally I wouldn't go with anything that will cost you money to do. I wish I had other options for you.