Hey guys... I gotta admit I am getting really burned out on running monthly contests on the site. It takes a lot of time to create the contests, then pick the winners and do the followup. I dread the end of each month because I just never seem to have time to properly admin each contest. I feel that I should be using that time to fix some the bugs in the site instead.

I think I am going to do a few longer term contests each year instead of twelve monthlies. Two that pop into my head:
- Photo Rally Contest
- XMAS Toy Drive

I would like your feedback on this. Ideas, etc.

 

Contests every month are cool and all... but here's an idea.

If you're going to have a contest run 2 months, or maybe 3... can the prizes be bigger for those ones?

Keep the same stuff for the others (springs, strut bar, manuals, etc...) but have something super cool for the longer contests. Like an intake, header or axleback exhaust or spipe or something fun like that.

 

Yeah, I would want to keep the same sponsors involved... but if the contest is longer and runs more prominently we could probably get better support from them.

 

Your site, your choice, Darren.

If it gets to dreading the end of the month because of the contests, you need to make some changes.

The site should be fun, interesting, and enjoyable for ALL users, and that includes the Boss and his Mods.

:D

 

Hmmm.. Would it be fair to elect someone else to actually run and operate all contests? Basically lay out the guidelines for that person, then make them aware that they themselves cannot be involved.. Passing the buck is one way of eliminating some of the pressure. Or even doing the contests further apart.. maybe 4 a year.. and just see about having the sponsors up the prize some. Its a tough one for sure.

 

I'd hate to see them go, but its up to you in the end.

Like Stu said, I think delegating could help, but finding an impartial user could be pretty tough.

 

I think I am going to reduce the number of contests.... here they are:
2007 ScionLife Calendar Photo Contest (Apr-Jun)
ScionLife Photo Rally (Aug-Sep)
XMAS Toy Drive (Nov-Dec)

That will reduce the load on me but still let you guys have some fun. Sound good?

 

Sounds like you have a plan boss!

 

I love the photo rally contests but I could never find the time to get all of the pictures taken. Having that last longer would be great. Having a two or three month span would really be nice.

 

so, what pics are we to take in these next few months oh so great Darren

 

I will announce the next contest in the off-topic area soon... but for now this topic is done.