posted ago by Woodinleg ago by Woodinleg +12 / -3

I have a proposal for the powers that be and my fellow patriots. I don't know if this could be implemented or whether the idea is even feasible from a technical aspect,. So I look to others for wisdom in this scheme.

What would be the benefit or disadvantage of implementing a system that encourages the use of upvotes? I have noticed in my own use of the platform that I repeatedly neglect or forget to upvote comments and posts that keep me coming back for more. This got me thinking of how to overcome this such that it becomes second nature.

I would love a system that encourages engagement by offering an incentive and keeps track of my upvoting behavior through a positive reinforcement mechanism. Therefore, I propose a daily bank of upvotes that accrue if not spent. The spent votes accrue in the spender's and recipient's favor and can then be used to purchase flair, avatars, or other goofy prizes. The idea is to provide a fun way to give positive reinforcement for each other while "training" all users to use the resource. Would this encourage participation and production of new content by lurkers?

I know this is pretty silly but I feel like the amount of engagement could be improved through some such scheme. I am no programmer, and as I've stated before, it may not be technically feasible due to the constraints of time and the tangible costs such a program might incur, but I would enjoy the challenge of giving away upvotes that have a realized value in the end while enjoying the feeling of accomplishment when my contributions are remunerated with pictures of my favorite pepe adorning all my posts and comments.

Please offer suggestions if you have them and if necessary a vehicle to pay for the development of such a program. I for one, get a great deal of satisfaction, hope, and enjoyment using GAW and those working hard behind the scenes do it all for no compensation.

The worst case scenario here; I have raised awareness for the need to upvote posts and comments. I don't come here for internet points, but I feel like our movement is much bigger than is represented by upvote numbers. Those occasions where I get a little feedback and interaction really brightens my day. We are under siege daily and I lean on and thank you all, the good folks here, for the solidarity and fellowship.

Sorry for the length, I tried my best to trim the fat while also conveying the intent as laconically as possible.