For me, and I stress that
this is my opinion, when I got here this forum seemed to me more about detailers sharing their experience and knowledge about detailing. There seemed to be more professional detailers (those who earn their daily bread doing this) and less do-it-yourselfers sharing. We were free to share what products worked for us, in what instances, and what didn't. Who's products we liked, who's we didn't, was shared without any biased rhetoric. Sponsors were not allowed to tote their products outside their own forums; and Detail City did not sell products.
As the membership grew, the ratio of professional members was far overshadowed by hobbyists. Combine this demographic with an excellent web presence, a database of how-to articles, and an established distribution outlet, it made perfect sense to turn this into a product selling site. "Money Talks," I think someone said, and it did. With sponsorship up to $750/mo (last I was quoted by previous owner) why not promote what is available through them -- could it be money also promotes greed??
My curiosity is within all those membership #'s. Of them, how many are unique IP users; just how many are on the payroll with one or more of our sponsors? It really doesn't concern me, and it truly is none of my business. It does kinda bother me though that the majority of the products pitched in the open forums are only available threw them or via the web. As for the sponsor ~ DC relationship, I'm kinda baffled at why a sponsor would pay money to be a sponsor in a place that sells the same things -- isn't that kinda like putting up a Lowes inside a Home Depot?
Once again, this is only my opinions, based upon my experience. I kinda like this place just the way it is -- changes and all. For me, I like giving away my experience and get a kick out-a watchin' the game from the sidelines.
