News - 2014 to the future FEEDBACK

[Mikey]

News - 2014 to the future




As you all will have seen recently, we have been looking at reforming the News department for a long time now. There have been so many things tried, quite a few of which has failed... but we're hoping to make a step in the right direction with this new plan!

What this thread will do is let you know, basically, what's going on. It's not set in stone, and we have left quite a lot open for future possibilities and developments! We've been through quite a lot of suggestions and "final" plans to get to this stage so it's nice to get it finished and published.


For now though, Welcome to the plan.



Articles


As you may know, the current department basically writes articles on Habbo's new ideas and events. As well as that, they do some bigger articles: from offering room reviews to interviews and the odd speciality Feature article.

After reviewing each type of article and the reception to them, we've put this together with a few of our own ideas and formed this plan!

We'll be moving away from the Habbo News & Rumours... mainly because it's posted on the forum before one of our reporters can get to it! That means we're left with the fantastic features & bigger articles.

The department will be re-named and rebranded. As we're removing the focus on the "News" element, we're going to name the department 'Articles'. I honestly don't know how this will go down, but News seems outdated and not very representative of what we'll be offering.

Examples of Articles that could be on offer as the department grows:


Rare Values Watch (Dan's already existing article series!)
Celebrity round-up / real-life roundup
Staff spotlight interviews (both Habbo and Habbox staff)
Tutorials on new features on the client, as well as looking into things like Wired guides
Research-based articles, such as looking into Habbo or Habbox History
Forum round-up, and forum news
Weekly Habbo round-up (this is the closest to the current department, but more condensing the week's news into one article)
Some Habbox announcements


as well as some we already do:
Room Reviews
Badge guides
...etc.

Now, like Dan's above, some of the sections will be assigned to a reporter; exclusive to them, or with them managing it. We're perfectly happy, and encourage you, if you have an idea of an article or series you'd like to take over, to give you at least a trial in the department. We do have an announcement here though: myself and Drewar are very happy to announce
lRhyss
has returned to the department, under the title of Head Article Writer, and his responsibility will be to manage the Habbo badge, event and game guides.



Staff



Staff in the department will look something like this:

Drewar (Articles Manager)

Because of his dedication and experience, Drewar will be promoted to Articles Manager!

lRhyss (Head Article Writer)

Rhyss will be mainly in charge of the Habbo guides, but will help with a few other bits, especially at first. There is a possibility of new Heads coming in in the near future.

Articles writers

The current staff in the department will be automatically transferred, but we will be looking to get some new staff too! The staff in the department will be expected to post TWO in-depth articles a month, showing progress at least ONCE A WEEK in a personal updates thread.
Or, FOUR articles a month that are shorter (room reviews, short/repeat interviews and Badge Guides).

Proof-readers

Pretty much what it says on the tin. A small team of proof-readers will be given permissions on the site to edit all the articles. These people will be expected to have a VERY good grasp of spelling, grammar and a good eye for design. They will also be managing the layout of articles, and helping to form style guides and things for the Handbooks we'll be re-doing (seriously, they're pretty much the same ones I wrote when I was asst manager WAY back).

We are hiring proof-readers and Articles writers: if you're interested in these roles, please apply using the following form!

Habbo and Habbox name(s):
Role applying for:
Past experience:
Have you got an idea or request for your own section or series? (don't worry if not!):
What would you add or change to this plan?:

We'll be taking on anyone with a half-decent application for a trial in the department, so get them in. Please send a PM to either myself, HabboxNews, or Drewar, because we will be assessing them together for now! Once the initial stage is over, Drewar will take COMPLETE control (exciting stuff)!

Guest Writers

Some members are very interested in certain things - some can do fantastic Wired guides, some building guides... but usually they can be so busy! Occasionally, we will be spotlighting some Guest Writers. These will be the very best of Habbox, producing all kinds of guides. If you think you could contribute to this, a one-off article, then let us know and we'd be happy to publish that. Just a reminder that normal writers only have to write 2 big articles a month though, so not too much at all!




Questions? Queries? Suggestions?



Just PM me or Drew. Please. We'll get back to you.





I agree with the decision about leaving Habbo News and Rumours, it's not really needed. Love the other ideas though and Proof-Readers.. oooh!

[MKR&*42]

About time christ, yes wonderful idea I can't wait to see how it works out :D

[kitten]

i think the proof readers is definitely a good idea. hopefully these changes will improve the department, seems like a good plan to get it back on it's feet!

[Lewis]

@lawrawrrr (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=61966); does this mean for 'guest staff' anyone can just send you any old article at any time, and if it's good, it can get posted?

And maybe I'm imagining things, but isn't news a compulsory thing fansites have to have in order to be an official fansite? Just like events on habbo?

[FlyingJesus]

News - 2014 to the past (http://www.habboxforum.com/showthread.php?t=711655&highlight=articles)

I think it's a nice idea and would love to see it work but it doesn't actually solve any of the issues that news has had in the last 2 years, or anything that's been brought up in the news feedback thread. Articles failed before because no-one cared about reading them and no-one wanted to write for a ghost audience, and I can't really see that changing by saying "we'll continue as we were but with a different name"

Guest articles is a good idea though, should have been a feature for a long time :P

[lawrawrrr]

@lawrawrrr (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=61966); does this mean for 'guest staff' anyone can just send you any old article at any time, and if it's good, it can get posted?

And maybe I'm imagining things, but isn't news a compulsory thing fansites have to have in order to be an official fansite? Just like events on habbo?
Basically, yes!

And it's not compulsory to my knowledge to do anything - we've missed events, as have other fansites, and kept the status. Most fansites don't have News the traditional way anyway.

Glad you think the plan is OK though guys, it's a relief to finally get it out after so long.

[Lewis]

Basically, yes!

And it's not compulsory to my knowledge to do anything - we've missed events, as have other fansites, and kept the status. Most fansites don't have News the traditional way anyway.

Glad you think the plan is OK though guys, it's a relief to finally get it out after so long.

I meant normal events, like the events department :P.

[lawrawrrr]

I meant normal events, like the events department :P.
Oh I see. Fairly sure that isn't compulsory either :P I could be wrong though

[MKR&*42]

Norm events surely cant be compulsory as i rarely ever see habboquests or habbocreation doing them :P

[Lewis]

Oh I see. Fairly sure that isn't compulsory either :P I could be wrong though


Norm events surely cant be compulsory as i rarely ever see habboquests or habbocreation doing them :P

Could be wrong then! I'm sure it was in the fansite way or whatever, that fansites must provide fun events for the community and up-to-date news. I'm probably imagining things then :P

Anyway, I do like the idea of this article department instead of news department. Hopefully it'll turn out good.

[Inseriousity.]

It's what I was planning to move towards (think the proof-readers thing is a bit pointless though) hence the mystic mike article. As for guest articles not sure it'll work, see: newsletter. I suggested to Tom to remove minimums instead where he said he'd let me try it out once people reach their minimums (err ye thanks tom). Instead of moving away from Habbo news altogether, I would implement Tom's idea while these articles are getting built up.

[FlyingJesus]

Is Drewar called Tom I am so confused

[Inseriousity.]

"It's what I was planning to move towards (think the proof-readers thing is a bit pointless though) hence the mystic mike article. As for guest articles not sure it'll work, see: newsletter. I suggested to Tom (Skynus) to remove minimums instead where he said he'd let me try it out once people reach their minimums (err ye thanks tom (skynus)). Instead of moving away from Habbo news altogether, I would implement Tom's (FlyingJesus') idea while these articles are getting built up."

lolol your own fault for having such a common name ;)

[FlyingJesus]

OH right from back then I get it now :P

[Drew]

Drewar is Drew. I've got myself confused so many times over the past few days because Laura keeps mentioning Drew in News stuff and I'm just like what lmao

[lawrawrrr]

We're only going to be hiring one or two proof readers, mainly because I don't want Seniors or Heads to be focusing on that rather than the general improving & running of the department. It's a great idea because there are so many writers who have fantastic ideas & dedication but their SPAG isn't QUITE up there.

[akeel$]

This is cool. I'm glad Habbox is becoming more and more active because I have noticed a small drop in numbers throughout the last few days so yeah, good going guys wish you the best of luck with the article department. Will be cool to see how it goes.

[Matt]

A great idea and change for the News Department! Might even see me joining :O

[e5]

I love proof reading, count me in.

[Chippiewill]

I'm confused, was renaming the department articles meant to be some kind of get out of jail free card for having an entire department post 1 thing over the course of three weeks?

[FlyingJesus]

Well to be fair the department only has a manager, a head writer, 2 main writers, 2 trialist writers, and a trialist proofreader, with the opportunity for infinite guest writers to pitch in any time they want. Can't possibly expect more than 1 short badge guide with such a skeleton staff surely

[Martin]

I'm confused, was renaming the department articles meant to be some kind of get out of jail free card for having an entire department post 1 thing over the course of three weeks?

and that article (badge guides) existed when it was called News, so we're yet to see anything new. :P



Well to be fair the department only has a manager, a head writer, 2 main writers, 2 trialist writers, and a trialist proofreader, with the opportunity for infinite guest writers to pitch in any time they want. Can't possibly expect more than 1 short badge guide with such a skeleton staff surely


The trialist proofreader must be rushed off their feet omg! That article does contain mistakes though so it's not like they're gonna be bored. ;)



It's only been like half a month (feels more like half a century) since it was introduced so I guess we will start seeing the results soon hopefully and the front page of Habbox will be looking nice and refreshed once again! There was lots of positive ideas in the thread, its just seeing them implemented now- I heard one reporter asking for a banner for room reviews (woo that was done under news too |-)) so im guessing we'll see one or two of those soon. HOW EXCITING!


I'm hoping for lots of special world cup themed stuff, so that guests get an impression that we're current etc. I'm sure there's lots planned already! :D



At this moment in time though, I think there was more updates with LESS staff under NEWS. :P The front page really does need to be looked after a bit more if its going to be advertised in events etc to potential new members. The impression given is not so great!


I could go on for hours but I've just done a late shift at work so I'm super tired. :( (lucky you!) :D

[Inseriousity.]

and that article (badge guides) existed when it was called News, so we're yet to see anything new. :P





The trialist proofreader must be rushed off their feet omg! That article does contain mistakes though so it's not like they're gonna be bored. ;)



It's only been like half a month (feels more like half a century) since it was introduced so I guess we will start seeing the results soon hopefully and the front page of Habbox will be looking nice and refreshed once again! There was lots of positive ideas in the thread, its just seeing them implemented now- I heard one reporter asking for a banner for room reviews (woo that was done under news too |-)) so im guessing we'll see one or two of those soon. HOW EXCITING!


I'm hoping for lots of special world cup themed stuff, so that guests get an impression that we're current etc. I'm sure there's lots planned already! :D



At this moment in time though, I think there was more updates with LESS staff under NEWS. :P The front page really does need to be looked after a bit more if its going to be advertised in events etc to potential new members. The impression given is not so great!


I could go on for hours but I've just done a late shift at work so I'm super tired. :( (lucky you!) :D

I was super busy, didn't pay as much attention to news as it needed (hence why I had to resign) and there were more articles.

[Martin]

I was super busy, didn't pay as much attention to news as it needed (hence why I had to resign) and there were more articles.


News had so much potential, it was just unloved


:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:' (:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(: '(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'( :'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:' (:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(: '(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(:'(

[Chippiewill]

martin for news manager 2k14

[FlyingJesus]

Anyone who can read a bloody feedback thread properly for news manager 2k14

[Chippiewill]

God; for news manager 2k14

[Martin]

martin for news manager 2k14

Awwww thanks Will! :D The only reason I moan so much about news and offer feedback is because News was my first manager role at Habbox, my longest manager role and the time where I believed I was most confident. Back then teamwork was a lot more important and I got on so well with all of my staff it was like a little family and I have such fond memories of those times! I think one of the most important things of any job is to enjoy doing it, and the results are much better when that happens, communication and encouragement go a long way and having a good bond with your staff and making them enjoy and have a passion for writing and being creative is one of the best things ever! I used to love sitting down on a Sunday night and writing out my reports (we had around 10-15 staff in the department then I believe) making a cute little banner for them, making graphics and geeky things and trying to introduce more fun and lighthearted things into them too just as a bit of a thank you to everyone for all their hard work! You get such good vibes when you can tell someone is proud of what they've achieved and its getting good comments and stuff, really boosts morale! Will always be one of the best memories I personally take away from Habbox and its all down to my staff who made it such an enjoyable and productive department to work in! :D


Anyone who can read a bloody feedback thread properly for news manager 2k14

Does making one count? ;)

http://www.habboxforum.com/showthread.php?t=792415&p=8066567#post8066567



@God (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=104290); for news manager 2k14

Might just work... :O

[Chippiewill]

Shenanigans aside, is the department dead? Is it such a foregone conclusion that it's beyond discussion?

[FlyingJesus]

They're working hard behind the scenes

[Chippiewill]

This'll all pay off when V7 is done!

[Martin]

BRING BACK NEWS

:'(

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d8/c4/b9/d8c4b9a138d70a6ab4c7102f5c797062.jpg

[FlyingJesus]

http://i.imgur.com/aT00iDt.png

Can't wait

[Martin]

http://i.imgur.com/aT00iDt.png

Can't wait

:O Sounds exciting!!!!

Probably something breathtakingly exciting like room reviews or maybe even... interviews :O:O:O:O (#beentheredonethat)




Guys I don't know why we are worrying, the articles manager has posted hundreds of times in this thread reassuring us, posts heaps of articles on a weekly basis and seems to be really showing us that the whole exciting department changes put into effect a few hundred weeks ago are going swimmingly and things have improved ten-fold! :O It's such a big department role wise now that all bases are covered- even a proof reader in case people are capable of checking their own work or someone actually posts something! :P

[Lewis]

:O Sounds exciting!!!!

Probably something breathtakingly exciting like room reviews or maybe even... interviews :O:O:O:O (#beentheredonethat)





Guys I don't know why we are worrying, the articles manager has posted hundreds of times in this thread reassuring us, posts heaps of articles on a weekly basis and seems to be really showing us that the whole exciting department changes put into effect a few hundred weeks ago are going swimmingly and things have improved ten-fold! :O It's such a big department role wise now that all bases are covered- even a proof reader in case people are capable of checking their own work or someone actually posts something! :P

I can't tell if you noticed that tweet was in 2012 or not lol :(

[Martin]

I can't tell if you noticed that tweet was in 2012 or not lol :(


Oh I didn't to begin with haha! Just saw Laura had posted it and assumed it was recent :P


Not that it matters, we've been waiting years for Version 7, so I guess its possible we're still waiting for this exciting news thing? :P Habbox like to tease us nice and early for such things! :D

[Lewis]

Oh I didn't to begin with haha! Just saw Laura had posted it and assumed it was recent :P


Not that it matters, we've been waiting years for Version 7, so I guess its possible we're still waiting for this exciting news thing? :P Habbox like to tease us nice and early for such things! :D

Aha, wouldn't surprise me!

[The Don]

:O Sounds exciting!!!!

Probably something breathtakingly exciting like room reviews or maybe even... interviews :O:O:O:O (#beentheredonethat)




Guys I don't know why we are worrying, the articles manager has posted hundreds of times in this thread reassuring us, posts heaps of articles on a weekly basis and seems to be really showing us that the whole exciting department changes put into effect a few hundred weeks ago are going swimmingly and things have improved ten-fold! :O It's such a big department role wise now that all bases are covered- even a proof reader in case people are capable of checking their own work or someone actually posts something! :P

Martin it’s one thing giving feedback and constructive criticism, but your passive aggressive approach and condescending tone isn’t helping you convey your point. All it’s doing Is making you look incredibly petty which doesn’t benefit you, the department, or anybody else because all it's doing is putting people off taking your suggestions and posts seriously. If you actually want the news department to be improved then you’re going the wrong way about it.

[Martin]

Martin it’s one thing giving feedback and constructive criticism, but your passive aggressive approach and condescending tone isn’t helping you convey your point. All it’s doing Is making you look incredibly petty which doesn’t benefit you, the department, or anybody else because all it's doing is putting people off taking your suggestions and posts seriously. If you actually want the news department to be improved then you’re going the wrong way about it.


I've offered plenty of advice, improvements and opinions about the department in various threads. It's just when you don't really get much of a reply or reasurrance back from management where it gets frustrating and these kind of comments slip out as there doesn't seem much hope!


I agree I can be a little sassy at times, and I apologise if news management read this! :P You're doing a fab job keep it up!

[lRhyss]

BRING BACK NEWS

:'(

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d8/c4/b9/d8c4b9a138d70a6ab4c7102f5c797062.jpg

The image uploader and news editor haven't worked since Habbox broke :'(

[Martin]

The image uploader and news editor haven't worked since Habbox broke :'(

Oh that sucks :(

I guess one of the good things about articles though is that articles can be pre-made ready to post on the site at any time etc, so things like this wont effect staff output/meeting their minimums etc as they can be posted in the staff forums ready for copying over when the site works. Rather as with news it was all live and relevant to current goings ons so would expire etc.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[lRhyss]

Oh that sucks :(

I guess one of the good things about articles though is that articles can be pre-made ready to post on the site at any time etc, so things like this wont effect staff output/meeting their minimums etc as they can be posted in the staff forums ready for copying over when the site works. Rather as with news it was all live and relevant to current goings ons so would expire etc.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I agree :) I have a badge guide pre-written for the World Cup badges, it's just playing the waiting game now :)

[CrazyLemurs]

Hi o/ triallist proofreader here lmao
I just did some work on the most recently posted article, and there were 10 (yes, 10) changes I made. I have a reason to be here, if we get more articles. And if you guys are so miffed about not having any articles, I welcome all of you to come write some and see how crushing my blows are when I proofread your work ;)

[FlyingJesus]

No-one said there wasn't a reason for you to be there

[Chippiewill]

Congratulations to lRhyss;, the only member of the Articles department capable of writing an article.

[Chippiewill]

I can only assume that -:Undertaker:-;, Americanozz;, bikini;, Drewar;, and iAbby,.; will be either dismissed or produce a flurry of articles within the next few days. In the meantime management seems very quiet on all this.

[Chris]

I believe Laura is back tomorrow. We will be looking into this and doing whatever necessary.

[lRhyss]

I can only assume that @-:Undertaker:- (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=24233);, @Americanozz (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=63952);, @bikini (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=119486);, @Drewar (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=3835);, and @iAbby,. (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=119033); will be either dismissed or produce a flurry of articles within the next few days. In the meantime management seems very quiet on all this.
I believe Undertaker only does the rare values weekly thing, not sure where it is though.
Drew has been working really hard behind the scenes, changing a lot of... Well things (trying to to get Bolt660'd) :P
Not sure what's up with the others though

[FlyingJesus]

I wonder if it's possible to have an active feedback thread where "X is away" or "there are things happening behind the scenes" aren't used as excuses for absolute failure to perform

[Martin]

I believe Undertaker only does the rare values weekly thing, not sure where it is though.
Drew has been working really hard behind the scenes, changing a lot of... Well things (trying to to get Bolt660'd) :P
Not sure what's up with the others though


What on earth is 'getting Bolt660'd' LOL

So I guess if you don't know where everyone is, that means they aren't posted away :O


Behind the scenes things are all good and well and help for the longterm, but when the current stuff gets neglected is where there's a problem and there needs to be a balance between the two. It's no good putting everything on hold and having weeks/months of dismal output when lets be honest, it doesn't take that long to write a decent article, and if other departments are capable of spending hours and meeting their set minimums per week then I don't see why this should be any different. If staff aren't pulling their weight then the manager needs to step in and do something asap, and if needs be it then falls upon them to fill in the gaps where necessary and write some articles themself to keep things going!

I think when big changes are announced to a department, obviously more eyes than usual will be on it, and its a bit like a damp fish (idk if thats a term) when all we've seen so far is pretty much a couple of badge guides which existed under the news department.


I agree with Tom, those excuses are used far too much these days and its really letting things down. I think there's so much potential there, and its just being missed. If things are in the pipeline then thats all well and good, but I don't think realistically it should take a month to get a decent output going and at least some creative bits and bobs up, especially with the amount of staff that we currently have.

I believe there is a three week rule for posting away, so I'm guessing those that have failed to produce anything/do any work for three weeks will be dealt with accordingly.




Okay I hope there was no sassy comments in that, I tried my ultimate hardest!!! :'(

[Brad]

I totally agree with everything everyone I said. I do have to admit that there was a long time while I have been in the department that I failed to post an article (due to waiting for approval.. and still.. but still posted it anyways).

I do know that I should of just posted an article due to the fact, but I feel that in that way, It wouldn't of came from the heart, so I do take what everyone has said into consideration on how I act and post in the department, and I truly hope that I can fulfill what people say, and give feedback to.

I do take responsibility of my own actions, and I have never used the excuse of "I'm posted away", or "I'm too busy". If I know I'm too busy- or get myself too busy then it's not worth being in the department.

Thank you, everyone, for your feedback.

[FlyingJesus]

Damn what will they do now without all the major input Drewar was giving

[lawrawrrr]

I was hoping while I was away there would be a proper staff drive and some real progress, it was always gonna be hard at first forming this department but I'd hoped it would have been a bit further forwards!

I'm yet to catch up on everything that's been going on, but it's a real shame Drew decided to resign because he did have some good ideas, and obviously his application was the best or we wouldn't have picked him!

[Grig]

I totally agree with everything everyone I said. I do have to admit that there was a long time while I have been in the department that I failed to post an article (due to waiting for approval.. and still.. but still posted it anyways).

I do know that I should of just posted an article due to the fact, but I feel that in that way, It wouldn't of came from the heart, so I do take what everyone has said into consideration on how I act and post in the department, and I truly hope that I can fulfill what people say, and give feedback to.

I do take responsibility of my own actions, and I have never used the excuse of "I'm posted away", or "I'm too busy". If I know I'm too busy- or get myself too busy then it's not worth being in the department.

Thank you, everyone, for your feedback.

I swear that myself and Martin removed the approval system because it was simply too slow, particularly when a manager is inactive. Well... not only that, but if you want to compete and get news out fast and efficient and make the site look cool and updated. Although, if say a manager is always on Habbox, then that wouldn't be a problem; yet even that would eventually fail. You could argue that on the flip side of the coin it was crap quality, but then why not just do workshops and train your journalists (article writers or w.e. they're called) on how to lay out work/ write specifically for Habbox. I just went on the site, and it seems to me that things are rarely updated. But that's been a problem for a while before this re-vamp, so no visible improvements in terms of content to the public eye yet.

[Brad]

I swear that myself and Martin removed the approval system because it was simply too slow, particularly when a manager is inactive. Well... not only that, but if you want to compete and get news out fast and efficient and make the site look cool and updated. Although, if say a manager is always on Habbox, then that wouldn't be a problem; yet even that would eventually fail. You could argue that on the flip side of the coin it was crap quality, but then why not just do workshops and train your journalists (article writers or w.e. they're called) on how to lay out work/ write specifically for Habbox. I just went on the site, and it seems to me that things are rarely updated. But that's been a problem for a while before this re-vamp, so no visible improvements in terms of content to the public eye yet.
Yes, I know- I ended up just presenting what I was planning. (Weekly Room Pick) so I know i can't speak for others, but I do know that I take responsibility of my own stuff. I already have some pre writings ready to go out. :)

- - - Updated - - -


I was hoping while I was away there would be a proper staff drive and some real progress, it was always gonna be hard at first forming this department but I'd hoped it would have been a bit further forwards!

I'm yet to catch up on everything that's been going on, but it's a real shame Drew decided to resign because he did have some good ideas, and obviously his application was the best or we wouldn't have picked him!

Wow. I didn't see that until now. That's sad.

[Martin]

I was hoping while I was away there would be a proper staff drive and some real progress, it was always gonna be hard at first forming this department but I'd hoped it would have been a bit further forwards!

I'm yet to catch up on everything that's been going on, but it's a real shame Drew decided to resign because he did have some good ideas, and obviously his application was the best or we wouldn't have picked him!

Woooo do you have interwebs now Laura? :D

It is a shame Drew decided to resign so early on, and im sure he did have some good ideas too! I think there just needs to be a real passion for wanting to make something succeed and its all about putting plans into action as quickly as possible so that the damage isn't too great I guess. I think its hard to tell from an application just how motivated and determined someone will be to really turn a department around, especially in the middle of big changes etc. I think the main thing which has let this down has been the non existent output we've seen so far, lack of advertising and promotion and I would say so far that no changes have been visible to the public after the first month, which I just find it hard to understand as surely if you have quite a few staff members (including seniors/managers/trialists etc) who are all capable of writing stuff then I don't know how it could take so long?

Surely when a department reaches the point where its failing on its most basic purpose, then the manager should step in and sort it as a matter of urgency, and also work on keeping the output going a bit themselves (in terms of writing some articles themselves). Personally I found getting stuck into the core purpose of departments was really important and thoroughly enjoyed both the managing aspect as well as getting stuck in and writing too.

I just think there have been a lot of wasted opportunities with News, and now we're seeing it with articles too, as there could be lots of themed world cup/fathers day stuff going on (users submitting fathers day stuff/poems/stories about their dads etc, world cup creative content, updates etc) literally ANYTHING to keep it going. I don't know if you are focussing mainly on Habbo related articles (badge guides, room views, interviews, all the stuff thats been done under news etc), or whether you are doing real life/creative stuff too?


What's the current minimum output required by an articles writer in the department in a week?




Damn what will they do now without all the major input Drewar was giving

Pfft how do you get away with comments like that! I got slapped down for that!

[lawrawrrr]

Woooo do you have interwebs now Laura? :D

YEAH BOI


It is a shame Drew decided to resign so early on, and im sure he did have some good ideas too! I think there just needs to be a real passion for wanting to make something succeed and its all about putting plans into action as quickly as possible so that the damage isn't too great I guess. I think its hard to tell from an application just how motivated and determined someone will be to really turn a department around, especially in the middle of big changes etc. I think the main thing which has let this down has been the non existent output we've seen so far, lack of advertising and promotion and I would say so far that no changes have been visible to the public after the first month, which I just find it hard to understand as surely if you have quite a few staff members (including seniors/managers/trialists etc) who are all capable of writing stuff then I don't know how it could take so long?


It was always gonna be a massive task and I know he was capable so it is such a shame. Like I said, I was expecting/hoping something to be visible now so it is a bit of a beard-scratcher for me... I've been having a look today though :)


Surely when a department reaches the point where its failing on its most basic purpose, then the manager should step in and sort it as a matter of urgency, and also work on keeping the output going a bit themselves (in terms of writing some articles themselves). Personally I found getting stuck into the core purpose of departments was really important and thoroughly enjoyed both the managing aspect as well as getting stuck in and writing too.

Yeah I agree with you. Maybe it was because noone really knew wht was expected and it was a bit intimidating? idrk at all, I don't know why drew resigned either tbh


I just think there have been a lot of wasted opportunities with News, and now we're seeing it with articles too, as there could be lots of themed world cup/fathers day stuff going on (users submitting fathers day stuff/poems/stories about their dads etc, world cup creative content, updates etc) literally ANYTHING to keep it going. I don't know if you are focussing mainly on Habbo related articles (badge guides, room views, interviews, all the stuff thats been done under news etc), or whether you are doing real life/creative stuff too?


What's the current minimum output required by an articles writer in the department in a week?
2 a month, on average. It's mainly because some of the articles I was hoping for have really indepth discussion and research so asking one a week would be a hell of a lot! I was really hoping with such a small minimum people might be interested in applying and might be less prone to leaving (as almost every resignee recently has said it's been too much work). Also, with the type of things the department (should be) producing, you don't really want a ton of articles, my sort of 'goal' is to have about 10 writers, that's on average about 30 articles a month.

Smaller articles like room reviews and whatever else the manager deems 'insufficient' would only count as 0.5 though.

[Martin]

YEAH BOI



It was always gonna be a massive task and I know he was capable so it is such a shame. Like I said, I was expecting/hoping something to be visible now so it is a bit of a beard-scratcher for me... I've been having a look today though :)



Yeah I agree with you. Maybe it was because noone really knew wht was expected and it was a bit intimidating? idrk at all, I don't know why drew resigned either tbh




2 a month, on average. It's mainly because some of the articles I was hoping for have really indepth discussion and research so asking one a week would be a hell of a lot! I was really hoping with such a small minimum people might be interested in applying and might be less prone to leaving (as almost every resignee recently has said it's been too much work). Also, with the type of things the department (should be) producing, you don't really want a ton of articles, my sort of 'goal' is to have about 10 writers, that's on average about 30 articles a month.

Smaller articles like room reviews and whatever else the manager deems 'insufficient' would only count as 0.5 though.

What do you mean by in depth discussion? and what kind of articles would these be? Research was always part of being a news reporter anyway, and we never had any problems producing 3 articles per week.

I don't think 1 per week would be too much to ask really, especially considering some departments require you to physically put a lot of hours in etc as part of their minimums. 2 per month just seems extremely low, even writing

I don't get the 'too much' work excuse, as we haven't really seen a substantial amount of work from ANYONE within the department, be that trialists, seniors OR management.



Personally I also believe you don't want the articles to be TOO long, or people will get bored, see huge blocks of text and won't bother reading. Personally I would enjoy smaller light-hearted articles that are to the point, fun to read and are engaging.



OH AND YAYYYYY WELL DONE ON BEING AN INTERWEBS USER AGAIN :D

[lawrawrrr]

What do you mean by in depth discussion? and what kind of articles would these be? Research was always part of being a news reporter anyway, and we never had any problems producing 3 articles per week.

I don't think 1 per week would be too much to ask really, especially considering some departments require you to physically put a lot of hours in etc as part of their minimums. 2 per month just seems extremely low, even writing

I don't get the 'too much' work excuse, as we haven't really seen a substantial amount of work from ANYONE within the department, be that trialists, seniors OR management.

Personally I also believe you don't want the articles to be TOO long, or people will get bored, see huge blocks of text and won't bother reading. Personally I would enjoy smaller light-hearted articles that are to the point, fun to read and are engaging.

I did post the sort of articles in the original thread, I think the link is on the OP here. I think your view of news is very skewed on what you produced - which was very good - but a lot of reporters, especially over the last 2 years have increasingly been copying straight off Habbo articles, and that's what made News really bad, in the end. Like I said, recently I've spoken to almost everyone who left to find out why, and almost all of them have said "time constraints / the minimum was too much".

2 a month is low, it's not like it's a maximum and people can write more if they wanted, but the lower the minimum, in my head anyway, it seems like more people might be tempted to join in the first place. If you think hour-wise from other department, its like 3 in events, 2 in hxl (I think) a week, and I'd like to think that the two articles would take a couple of hours each to write, to a good standard anyway. There is NO POINT in upping the minimum because, like you said, noones been doing anything anyway. I'd rather not just fire people.

I never said they'd be really long, just in-depth, good quality articles tackling some difficult topics, guides on how to do certain things like build rooms, wire events, things like that, as well as interviews, interesting Habbo stories and discussion on history, Habbox rumours. Pretty much everything would be relevant to the department.

[Martin]

I did post the sort of articles in the original thread, I think the link is on the OP here. I think your view of news is very skewed on what you produced - which was very good - but a lot of reporters, especially over the last 2 years have increasingly been copying straight off Habbo articles, and that's what made News really bad, in the end. Like I said, recently I've spoken to almost everyone who left to find out why, and almost all of them have said "time constraints / the minimum was too much".

2 a month is low, it's not like it's a maximum and people can write more if they wanted, but the lower the minimum, in my head anyway, it seems like more people might be tempted to join in the first place. If you think hour-wise from other department, its like 3 in events, 2 in hxl (I think) a week, and I'd like to think that the two articles would take a couple of hours each to write, to a good standard anyway. There is NO POINT in upping the minimum because, like you said, noones been doing anything anyway. I'd rather not just fire people.

I never said they'd be really long, just in-depth, good quality articles tackling some difficult topics, guides on how to do certain things like build rooms, wire events, things like that, as well as interviews, interesting Habbo stories and discussion on history, Habbox rumours. Pretty much everything would be relevant to the department.


Oh awesome! :P

Yeah, I noticed that with news too! I think one of the most important things was keeping the content unique and interesting and not just a copy of the news from Habbo, and unfortunately some people were extremely lazy and uncreative! :P News Reporting should be about being investigative and making sure you engage with the reader and make the article both interesting and unique to read, otherwise there just isn't any point really.

So people left saying that writing too articles a month was too much for them? I think that might have just been an excuse in some cases and the real reason was lack of motivation/guidance, and just the fact that they didn't really have that much passion for wanting to produce content for the site.

As you said, other departments require you to spend 3+ hours of your week doing stuff, and I don't think it would take that long to churn out some articles. As you say though, if people are unable to commit to 2 per month then upping it seems hard. I think we just need to establish what is making people not want the department to look good and improve.

There seems to be plenty of ideas being thrown about, just not much actual output from anyone, which is what the department is there for really. I'm sure things will pick up soon though and we'll get to see some new stuff. Just needs to be advertised well so that people engage with it and come back for more! :D

[Inseriousity.]

Habbox got to a stage where it was popular enough not to need to worry about recruitment. Applications open, there was always a sufficient supply and in some departments, could actually choose people on quality. Took me 3 tries to get in the articles department back when Professor-Alex was in charge. Nowadays, departments so desperate for staff they hire everyone who's good enough with the idea to just train them up from good enough. A writing department is difficult to recruit for as it is and I do think it's a wider issue here. It seems to only be HxL who seems to have avoided it and I imagine a large part of that is that it naturally attracts those younger members who are more willing to work for fansites (with a strong management team in place for a sustained period of time to back it up).

I say all that because managing news atm seems to be more about trying to build a stable team before any changes can be implemented. That was certainly the case when I was manager. I agree with Martin that it needs a manager that can lead by example and if they can't do that, they should resign (as drew and I did) or be fired. I believe general management can no longer just leave managers to deal with plugging their own individual recruitment gaps, which still seems to be case. It requires radical ideas to get people here (or staying here as the case may be) and these are not currently forthcoming.

[Brad]

I enjoy reading these feedback sand experiences from other past managers. It gives me an understanding what is needed, and yes- I know I'm finishing my trial- but always something to start.

[Martin]

I enjoy reading these feedback sand experiences from other past managers. It gives me an understanding what is needed, and yes- I know I'm finishing my trial- but always something to start.

That's what feedback is all about I guess xD

Although really if you don't know what is needed you should be able to talk to your manager about it and they should be able to give you the guidance and reassurance needed to ensure you're feeling happy and knowledgeable within the department :P

Obviously things change a lot over the years, so chances are News *cough articles* isn't really the same as it was years ago, but the foundations and general idea are still similar :P


The most important thing is to just enjoy it! There's nothing worse than doing something and not putting your heart into it, and not enjoying the results! It's all about being proud of what you've written, knowing that others will read it and benefit from it, as well as Habbox getting something out of it too! :P You're always super good at engaging with the readers in your articles which is something I love! You really make them your own! :P

Obviously its really cool when the ideas and input come from staff members within the said department too, so definitely don't be afraid to give your ideas to management and stuff, however small as it could make a big difference!


Staff will obviously not stick around if they don't a) have a passion for doing the job at hand, and b) don't feel motivated to do so, and its down to management to ensure that the core support, advice and help is there, and that there is a team bond. A very important thing of working at Habbox is feeling part of a team, and I don't think I would have stuck around so long had it not been for some of the amazing people I got to talk to within the departments I worked in! Helping each other, discussing ideas, making new friends and having fun is what its all about, and the rest will follow naturally! :D

[Chippiewill]

Have you offered the role of Articles manager to Martin yet? He clearly wants it.

[Martin]

Have you offered the role of Articles manager to Martin yet? He clearly wants it.

Ew no! :P Rhyss will get it obviously!


(well okay maybe a bit :P but that's just because I care!)




I'm not allowed to be a manager anyway :P (conditions of my parole haha)

[Inseriousity.]

martin for manager!

[MKR&*42]

martin for manager!

Lmaooo it didnt come true =[

[Inseriousity.]

Does seem that stubbornness over a bizarre DNHL decision means they've overlooked the best person for the job!

[Chippiewill]

Well at least it's someone who's posted an article.

[FlyingJesus]

It's not that bizarre he was embezzling for his underage bf but yeah overlooking people is a Habbox institution :P

[Inseriousity.]

gosh I can tell you aren't going to be a news reporter, well unless it's for The Sun when you can make stuff up. ;)

[FlyingJesus]

I'm pretty sure he admitted to it

[Samantha]

Does seem that stubbornness over a bizarre DNHL decision means they've overlooked the best person for the job!

No one can ever be sure on who the best person for the job is, their application may be outstanding amongst the others, but they're just words - if then they can't deliver then are they really the best for the job? I'm not denying Martin would probably be great, I loved him as my manager, but perhaps a fresh face with the fresher department is what Habbox needs. That outside person to come in and make the department better, or bring it back up to where it once was - it worked with Lewis when he managed the events department. For this decision, I think the General Management team (or those who have a decision in it) will choose wisely, and I'm sure if it doesn't pay off at least they tried!

Was it you Mike who said it feels like you need to build a staff team and everything before actually running the department? I agree with you there - the second time around where I was manager it just didn't feel right, it's really disheartening knowing that a department you ran in part of its prime has vanished and you can't be too sure how you can revive it. It did feel that before I could enjoy it I had the task of actually getting staff, even chipping in myself wasn't enough and I love writing news!

[Martin]

It's not that bizarre he was embezzling for his underage bf but yeah overlooking people is a Habbox institution :P


I'm pretty sure he admitted to it


I don't know what you mean by embezzling? I never had any events funds, so if you mean that then no. Also I was fired and put on the do not hire list for leaking information.




Anyway, I think we need to give Rhyss a chance to show us what he can do with the department guys! He seems really nice and his badge guide articles on the site have been really good to read. I wish him the best of luck and im sure he will do fab!

[Chippiewill]

This is really nit picky, but you need to cut down on the conversational language. It doesn't need to be wiki levels of neutral - but you're doing your content a disservice by writing it as if you're talking to the reader.

The style of writing really needs to be closer to that of blogs, for instance you may want to take a look at Ars Technica, it gets away with a lot of colloquialisms but breaks them up with facts.

Also I know you have a proof reader, but that does not excuse not reading through an article before publishing it. bikini;'s latest article seems to have commas thrown in all over the place.

[Brad]

This is really nit picky, but you need to cut down on the conversational language. It doesn't need to be wiki levels of neutral - but you're doing your content a disservice by writing it as if you're talking to the reader.

The style of writing really needs to be closer to that of blogs, for instance you may want to take a look at Ars Technica, it gets away with a lot of colloquialisms but breaks them up with facts.

Also I know you have a proof reader, but that does not excuse not reading through an article before publishing it. bikini;'s latest article seems to have commas thrown in all over the place.

I only saw one spot where I did use an excessive amount of commas, which I just updated it. I really don't see where I "threw" commas in.

And cut down on the conversational language? Isn't that what we are trying to accomplish? If there is an article that it feels like it is directed to me, there's a higher chance of me reading it.

[Samantha]

I only saw one spot where I did use an excessive amount of commas, which I just updated it. I really don't see where I "threw" commas in.

And cut down on the conversational language? Isn't that what we are trying to accomplish? If there is an article that it feels like it is directed to me, there's a higher chance of me reading it.

Things like this is probably why we'd need a sub forum for these if we're posting them on the forum. Your report needs editing, but if Rhyss edits the one on Habbox.com then it'll require a member of GM or forum to edit the other. It's not a case of just copying and pasting as moderators don't have access to the editor to get the codes used (bolding etc.)

It's great you're putting it on the forum, but I'd make sure it's been edited to perfection first. To get this you might need Rhyss going through it then a higher member (someone with access) too.

[Chippiewill]

And cut down on the conversational language? Isn't that what we are trying to accomplish? If there is an article that it feels like it is directed to me, there's a higher chance of me reading it.

To a degree yes, but if your article is nothing but conversational then you reduce the content to mere opinion. Most articles are a little conversational, but they don't go full out as it's inefficient to convey information and tedious to read.

Honestly, so far the veil of Articles has been used to get away with really sloppy writing.

[Brad]

To a degree yes, but if your article is nothing but conversational then you reduce the content to mere opinion. Most articles are a little conversational, but they don't go full out as it's inefficient to convey information and tedious to read.

Honestly, so far the veil of Articles has been used to get away with really sloppy writing.

I agree with you on this one, but are you referring to all types of articles? The way I see it is that most article entries, like room reviews, are meant to be opinion based.
If your articles are meant to have facts, and information from research (articles like current affairs in the real world, or an informative article on a recent study) then I understand that, yes- it should be there to convey the information given, and then supplying only about 5-10% of the article with your opinion.

[Chippiewill]

Ultimately yes, room reviews do have a lot of opinion, but there are a lot of objective comments you can about the room. You may want to read things like Music or Art reviews to get a better idea of the style that would be more appropriate.

[Brad]

Ultimately yes, room reviews do have a lot of opinion, but there are a lot of objective comments you can about the room. You may want to read things like Music or Art reviews to get a better idea of the style that would be more appropriate.

Alright, I will do that. Thank you

[Rachel]

News seem to be doing not to bad now.

[lRhyss]

Hey guys :D Thought I'd post some things for you!

I'm busy re-working some behind the scenes things at the moment, some things that Drewer left on, and somethings of my own.

Also I'd like you all to know I've re-worked the application process to try and attract more applicants! You can find the new application here! (http://www.habboxforum.com/showthread.php?t=804537)

The process is similar to Lewis' Events Fast Track applications... Well because I stole the idea from him :P Now instead of writing a whole article and providing a load of ultimately useless information in an application, you only need to include your name, past experience and a short paragraph on any subject you desire, simply so I can view your grammar and spelling abilities. I feel the short paragraph will encourage more applicants to join because some people will be put off by the whole "Write a full example article" - So hopefully this will encourage more people to apply.

I've started trying to figure out all the staffs activeness and I've clamped down on it, anyone that is not active is out! Grr, I'm mean! Expect an influx in articles soon guys :D

Anyway, that's all for now :)

[Chippiewill]

I'm busy re-working some behind the scenes things

Are you intentionally giving FJ ammunition?

[lRhyss]

Are you intentionally giving FJ ammunition?
Do people realise that:

The News Handbooks needs to be re-written and formatted to the Articles Handbook
The Proofreader Handbook needs to be written
The Head Articles Handbook needs to be re-written
Reports are due soon for those active in the department


Among many other things. I know some aren't priority at the moment, but they do still need doing.

[Martin]

Do people realise that:

The News Handbooks needs to be re-written and formatted to the Articles Handbook
The Proofreader Handbook needs to be written
The Head Articles Handbook needs to be re-written
Reports are due soon for those active in the department


Among many other things. I know some aren't priority at the moment, but they do still need doing.


It's been nearly a month and none of that has been done? :S

What has everyone been doing omg LOL

[Samantha]

Hey guys :D Thought I'd post some things for you!

I'm busy re-working some behind the scenes things at the moment, some things that Drewer left on, and somethings of my own.

Also I'd like you all to know I've re-worked the application process to try and attract more applicants! You can find the new application here! (http://www.habboxforum.com/showthread.php?t=804537)

The process is similar to Lewis' Events Fast Track applications... Well because I stole the idea from him :P Now instead of writing a whole article and providing a load of ultimately useless information in an application, you only need to include your name, past experience and a short paragraph on any subject you desire, simply so I can view your grammar and spelling abilities. I feel the short paragraph will encourage more applicants to join because some people will be put off by the whole "Write a full example article" - So hopefully this will encourage more people to apply.

I've started trying to figure out all the staffs activeness and I've clamped down on it, anyone that is not active is out! Grr, I'm mean! Expect an influx in articles soon guys :D

Anyway, that's all for now :)

Which he had the idea from me ;).

I like the fast track option, I remember Jan/Tom did the same, but I think thy just needed to write an article as that's really what they're doing and it shows how they write to an extent.

You have the drive to do stuff, I've already seen that and I know some things take priority. I think the proofreader idea is rather good too, although I'm yet to see action on that! Will edited articles still be edited then PMed to show what mistakes were made and how they can be sorted in the future?

[Chippiewill]

Reports are due soon for those active in the department


I got this!

Undertaker - Ain't done ****
-Nick - Only just started
Americanozz - Ain't done ****
bikini - Done some ish ****, keep up the good work
CrazyLemurs - Hasn't had **** to do because others haven't done ****
iAbby,. - Ain't done ****
lRhyss - The only one who's done enough ****

[lRhyss]

It's been nearly a month and none of that has been done? :S

What has everyone been doing omg LOL
Drewer started the Proofreader one I believe, I've finished that one now (formatting it now), the Head Writer one can wait as I haven't decided who will get that role, if I offer it out right away and I'm going to do the regular handbook in my own time; seeing as most of the information in it is still relevant:P

I've just got the role and I'm doing them now, don't hate me :'(

- - - Updated - - -


I got this!

Undertaker - Ain't done ****
-Nick - Only just started
Americanozz - Ain't done ****
bikini - Done some ish ****, keep up the good work
CrazyLemurs - Hasn't had **** to do because others haven't done ****
iAbby,. - Ain't done ****
lRhyss - The only one who's done enough ****
I'll be sure to include your comments in the up-coming reports!

- - - Updated - - -


Which he had the idea from me ;).

I like the fast track option, I remember Jan/Tom did the same, but I think thy just needed to write an article as that's really what they're doing and it shows how they write to an extent.

You have the drive to do stuff, I've already seen that and I know some things take priority. I think the proofreader idea is rather good too, although I'm yet to see action on that! Will edited articles still be edited then PMed to show what mistakes were made and how they can be sorted in the future?
If you check out the thread on Proofreaders in the Head Articles forums you'll see the process :P I don't wanna write it here and get fired for leaking stuff! :P

[Chippiewill]

I've just got the role and I'm doing them now, don't hate me :'(
You're doing a great job so far, I only meant the FJ comment as a joke about saying that you're doing behind the scenes work being a bad idea, rather than doing behind the scenes work being a bad idea. As long as the actual article writing doesn't get neglected whilst you're tidying up you'll be fine. If you start struggling to keep articles being posted whilst you're tidying it up then you can always ask laura for help.

[Kardan]

It's been nearly a month and none of that has been done? :S

What has everyone been doing omg LOL

Other behind the scenes stuff.

- - - Updated - - -


Drewer started the Proofreader one I believe, I've finished that one now (formatting it now), the Head Writer one can wait as I haven't decided who will get that role, if I offer it out right away and I'm going to do the regular handbook in my own time; seeing as most of the information in it is still relevant:P

I've just got the role and I'm doing them now, don't hate me :'(

- - - Updated - - -


I'll be sure to include your comments in the up-coming reports!

- - - Updated - - -


If you check out the thread on Proofreaders in the Head Articles forums you'll see the process :P I don't wanna write it here and get fired for leaking stuff! :P

Don't worry, you don't get fired for very long if you leak stuff.

[Chris]

Rhyss certainly has the ambition to change things and improve. He is doing a grand job so far so I'm looking forward to seeing what he will bring to the department.

[lRhyss]

Rhyss certainly has the ambition to change things and improve. He is doing a grand job so far so I'm looking forward to seeing what he will bring to the department.
Awh, thanks Chris :P

[Chippiewill]

Interesting set of articles just been pushed out.

Ozzinator has just pushed out two paragraphs under the guise of an article and I'm not entirely certain what the point of it was.

The guest article is a bit iffy, primarily because from the home page all you can see is lRhyss; discussing the guest article system. Furthermore, the title is completely non-indicative of the content. The guest article itself is actually probably one of the best written items on Habbox.com in several years. If you want to promote the guest articles system then format it like a normal article and add a single, short paragraph at the bottom discussing the concept and linking to the appropriate thread. Something like:

"This was a guest article by <name>, if you are interested in writing a guest article then please take a look at our Guest Article Info page" (Include a link to a page on the Habbox.com website with details on guest articles).

LoganD has published an article that could have been replaced with a link to the job applications forum. There are also a million typos, overly repetitive use of the word "today" and a bad image. I would suggest that trialists having the ability to put an article on the front page of Habbox without any prior checks is a flawed system.

And what is everyone's insistence on signing off? It states your name at the top of the article, calm down your egos.

[MKR&*42]

Don't think it's exactly big headed just to sign your name at the end of something.... bit of an over reaction, but nevertheless for years and years you haven't been allowed to do it as you're meant to work as part of a team and all that jazz.

[lRhyss]

Interesting set of articles just been pushed out.

Ozzinator has just pushed out two paragraphs under the guise of an article and I'm not entirely certain what the point of it was.

The guest article is a bit iffy, primarily because from the home page all you can see is @lRhyss (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=74041); discussing the guest article system. Furthermore, the title is completely non-indicative of the content. The guest article itself is actually probably one of the best written items on Habbox.com in several years. If you want to promote the guest articles system then format it like a normal article and add a single, short paragraph at the bottom discussing the concept and linking to the appropriate thread. Something like:

"This was a guest article by <name>, if you are interested in writing a guest article then please take a look at our Guest Article Info page" (Include a link to a page on the Habbox.com website with details on guest articles).

LoganD has published an article that could have been replaced with a link to the job applications forum. There are also a million typos, overly repetitive use of the word "today" and a bad image. I would suggest that trialists having the ability to put an article on the front page of Habbox without any prior checks is a flawed system.

And what is everyone's insistence on signing off? It states your name at the top of the article, calm down your egos.
The reason I used the front of the article to discuss the system is because It's the first guest article posted and I wasn't sure if everyone was fully aware of the scheme, in future it won't be formatted like that at all. Myles article is very well written, I do agree with you.

As for the trialist permissions, they've always posted on the main site a a normal staff member would do, I could look into implementing some sort of new permission set so articles need to be checked before uploaded.

[Grig]

The reason I used the front of the article to discuss the system is because It's the first guest article posted and I wasn't sure if everyone was fully aware of the scheme, in future it won't be formatted like that at all. Myles article is very well written, I do agree with you.

As for the trialist permissions, they've always posted on the main site a a normal staff member would do, I could look into implementing some sort of new permission set so articles need to be checked before uploaded.

Other ways to promote it, rather than in an article. I don't visit often, so sorry if this thread is becoming old. Whilst it is something for news to push for etc. The kind of things posted is not what is supposed to be driven from this concept, I am still waiting for an article that makes me say "hmm... this is really interesting". It's the kind of reaction you want from when you get eyeballs on it. The question I have is where do you see yourself in say 4 months, because with other sites such as ThisHabbo getting 4 articles a week per reporter without problems, then there needs to be a clear vision.

Also, I don't get the point of this phrase in the latest article: "Anyway, this Guest Article was submitted by Intersocial, also known as Hatden. The article is a really well composed in my eyes, Intersocial has outdone themselves in creating a well-written and interest capturing Article! you have to read it! " I don't care about any of that, nor is this an I want to be the next Chief International Correspondent game show. Give me teases on the article- the whole introduction is dull and wouldn't want me make to read it; it's a waste of space and not needed in my view. That's my opinion of how it should be formatted.

Also, very awkward when the latest article that you published is in the wrong front :P, just pointing that out. Sloppy formanting such as "hey Habbox community," without a space before the next paragraph looks awkward. Presentation is still not tip-top, and if there's an approval system in place, then this is absolutely ridiculous.

Other suggestions would include to do more editorials, as well as use more interactive graphics that can be easily built and actually wouldn't require too much time. Might be good to talk to graphics and see what comes out of it! Also, I can tell you this from my experience at CNN and seeing the stats etc. that you will always get hits with this kind of stuff, or things like top 10 lists, which are really easy to generate, e.g. next time Habbo screws up do a top 5 biggest screw ups etc. That's interesting and will generate hits.

Anyway, just adding my two cents, hopefully it's all constructive!

[Chippiewill]

Dear god, What is the issue with guest articles. My suggestion had a clear purpose: put the content first. If you have a 4 paragraph intro to a guest article then you're taking away from the article.

I will reiterate, the only alteration required to a guest article is a single paragraph at the end - don't overdo it.


Don't think it's exactly big headed just to sign your name at the end of something.... bit of an over reaction, but nevertheless for years and years you haven't been allowed to do it as you're meant to work as part of a team and all that jazz.

It was meant to look like an overreaction. In reality it just looks really out of place and unprofessional.

[Kardan]

How are the proof readers doing? I can see a variety of errors on the front page still...

[MKR&*42]

WOW YOU SPELT MY NAME 'HATDEN' ON THE ARTICLE INTRO ACTUAL WOW .
--
I also have no idea why i called that colour bluey-grey because thats not remotely grey

oh and yeah theres still a few errors on it (i am not very good at grammar sorry :P) and i agree with what chippiewill said

[Chippiewill]

I would like to point out that Intersocial's article is probably the only recent example of an article getting the informative writing style right (The previous guest article was also well written, but radically different in style). It manages to have colloquialisms without making it seem like the article has been padded out by them.

[Grig]

I would like to point out that Intersocial's article is probably the only recent example of an article getting the informative writing style right (The previous guest article was also well written, but radically different in style). It manages to have colloquialisms without making it seem like the article has been padded out by them.

Well that's how an article should be. Folks ranging from the BBC to your amateur reporter write by the rule of making it simple, not too wordy and direct to the point. Otherwise, the reader just zones out on the first couple of sentences and moves on or doesn't understand the point. The lead needs to be catchy, which adds to the fact that an intro. that has numerous grammatical mistakes and has little relation to the article doesn't really cut it!

edit: Also, yeh, what did happen to this 'editorial' position?! It seems like there are no editors atm.

[lawrawrrr]

The reason me and Rhyss decided to put the intro rather than the article first is that guest writers' articles should be different, if someone wanted their article on the front page with their content then they should apply to be staff! ;)

However, we were talking the other day about another idea that could change this which is on my list to look at this weekend!

I think the proof-reader idea is working well but it's not as quick as we hoped it would be, because pre-approval is only on some articles.

But I'm actually really happy with the changes and seeing them actually come into play now, and what people are producing! There is a way to go but we can now reflect and move forwards. Rhyss is really keen on this and very proactive, I'm really impressed by him!

[Chippiewill]

The reason me and Rhyss decided to put the intro rather than the article first is that guest writers' articles should be different, if someone wanted their article on the front page with their content then they should apply to be staff! ;)

110% manufactured ********. "Let's deprive the front page of content to spite the people nice enough to send us articles"

[Grig]

The reason me and Rhyss decided to put the intro rather than the article first is that guest writers' articles should be different, if someone wanted their article on the front page with their content then they should apply to be staff! ;)

However, we were talking the other day about another idea that could change this which is on my list to look at this weekend!

I think the proof-reader idea is working well but it's not as quick as we hoped it would be, because pre-approval is only on some articles.

But I'm actually really happy with the changes and seeing them actually come into play now, and what people are producing! There is a way to go but we can now reflect and move forwards. Rhyss is really keen on this and very proactive, I'm really impressed by him!

Well considering the most problematic article on the homepage was written by the manager, there shouldn't be a defense here.

As for guest writers, you need to release v7 before 2050 and I suggest to edit the news system so it can reflect guest writers, so put their job in the title after their name or below it, or if it's a special guest writer say "Mr. Flowerpot is an Ex-Hobba and veteran Habbo player, analyzing blahblahblah' as your intro, that will always generate buzz.

[lawrawrrr]

Well considering the most problematic article on the homepage was written by the manager, there shouldn't be a defense here.

As for guest writers, you need to release v7 before 2050 and I suggest to edit the news system so it can reflect guest writers, so put their job in the title after their name or below it, or if it's a special guest writer say "Mr. Flowerpot is an a veteran Habbo player, analyzing blahblahblah' as your intro, that will always generate buzz.
I would love a writer profile for full-time staff but not so much for guests, unless they're a notable person I guess.

For the first few guest articles, the whole intro thing was to let people actually know what Guest articles ARE. Maybe from here on in we can look into writing more of a summary of the article? lRhyss; something to think about :)

[Chippiewill]

For the first few guest articles, the whole intro thing was to let people actually know what Guest articles ARE. Maybe from here on in we can look into writing more of a summary of the article? lRhyss; something to think about :)
Articles are redundant enough as it is, without adding more redundancies.

[Grig]

I would love a writer profile for full-time staff but not so much for guests, unless they're a notable person I guess.

For the first few guest articles, the whole intro thing was to let people actually know what Guest articles ARE. Maybe from here on in we can look into writing more of a summary of the article? lRhyss; something to think about :)

Yeh and hype the guest up in the first paragraph if they are big or really an expert in something :P!

[lawrawrrr]

Articles are redundant enough as it is, without adding more redundancies.
Redundant? Maybe. Popular and entertaining? Yes.

[Inseriousity.]

I think it's a good idea to advertise the guest writer position in the intro but perhaps there's a better way to word it so that it can achieve both advertisement of the guest writer position as well as the article that the person went to the trouble of writing.

[lawrawrrr]

Yeh and hype the guest up in the first paragraph if they are big or really an expert in something :P!
Yeah should deffo introduce them somehow, especially if they've got a particular speciality / experience!

[Chippiewill]

..or appreciate that articles should be about articles and not people and leave the explaining for the end.

[despect]

From what I've seen from this thread is people complaining about the amount of mistakes in articles that are being published on the main site, so my question is.. Why hasn't the proofreader been picking up on these and changing the mistakes before they are published?

Another question too.. Do you have to post your article like somewhere in the Articles forum where the proofreader or Manager can read over it and make the necessary changes before its published?

[Chippiewill]

Another question too.. Do you have to post your article like somewhere in the Articles forum where the proofreader or Manager can read over it and make the necessary changes before its published?

No, despite the fact that Articles are less time sensitive than news was anyone in the department can publish something to the front page of a highly trafficked website despite very severe security risks.

[despect]

No, despite the fact that Articles are less time sensitive than news was anyone in the department can publish something to the front page of a highly trafficked website despite very severe security risks.

I guess that's understandable but the articles still need to of a good quality to be published on the site surely? Judging by the feedback some are not up to standard :P.

[Chippiewill]

Judging by the feedback some are not up to standard :P.

Most are not up to standards of formatting, quality of writing or spag. The only standard which is in force is a tacky banner with a generic repetitive style above every article which isn't even an appropriate width for the box it's contained in.

[CrazyLemurs]

Whilst it is my job to read every article and make the appropriate changes, it ISN'T part of my job to change their style of writing to be more effective, journalistically. That takes their character and ownership of the article away, and I personally don't think that's fair to do.

However, formatting is something I am unsure on as there are no standards in place of using bold, underlined or italic (and combinations of those) in articles, so it hasn't been communicated to me. If something like that can be determined as department-wide, I'll be happy to look at it more in my proofreading and that should improve quality!

[Chippiewill]

Absolutely correct, it isn't your job, it's the manager's job.

[lawrawrrr]

I think that we could maybe look at changing the proofing system so most articles are pre-approved. Only *some* Habbo stories are the time sensitive ones really!

[despect]

I think that we could maybe look at changing the proofing system so most articles are pre-approved. Only *some* Habbo stories are the time sensitive ones really!

Yeah I think most of the articles should be pre-approved so yeah that'd be good!

[FlyingJesus]

If only there was a simple solution that required minimal writing ability while gleaning maximum benefits and bringing visiting readers into the community

[Kardan]

Kardan's proofreading:

Phone Verification article.

What do you have to do to? (Doesn't make sense with this word).

So in order for you to do this new Verification (No capital letter needed).

and you must enter that code in the dialogue on screen. (Wrong word used? You don't enter the code into dialogue...)

Guest Article - The Life of Plastic Furniture.

you'll receive a nice little Forum Bade (Badge.)

The article is a really well composed in my eyes (Doesn't make sense, remove a.)

Intersocial has outdone themselves in creating a well-written and interest capturing Article! (Doesn't make sense, replace with interesting.)

They're just the errors on the front page, I'm sure there's more - and I didn't even read Intersocial's article to check there. This took me literally 5 minutes to do, so why isn't it being done? It's so simple.

[Chippiewill]

and interest capturing Article! (Doesn't make sense, replace with interesting.)

Actually, I think that one was an attempt to make the whole thing sound fancier.

[Kardan]

Actually, I think that one was an attempt to make the whole thing sound fancier.

Does it make sense? It doesn't sound right at all to me.

[Chippiewill]

Does it make sense? It doesn't sound right at all to me.

It makes sense, but it's still sloppy writing.

[Samantha]

Does it make sense? It doesn't sound right at all to me.

Yeah it's says that you capture the reader's interest, although I had to read it a few times.

[Kardan]

Yeah it's says that you capture the reader's interest, although I had to read it a few times.

Ah okay, wasn't reading it that way at all, would be better to say 'in creating a well-written article that really captures your interest' I think.

[CrazyLemurs]

I apologise if I'm not working fast enough for you, Kardan. I actually made some changes to the verification article earlier, so those you picked out should be gone. I'll make my way through the other ones when I have the time, as I am entitled to my own free time.

The reason you see errors on the front page is because articles are not checked by me in their writing until they are published. This is something that can be changed, but I feel could lead to a backlog of articles due to the communication channels needed being relatively slow.

I also understand the errors in the Plasto article are actually something I wasn't given. Guest articles are submitted for my overview before publishing (as they aren't straight from writer to site) and that introduction was written by Rhyss and I wasn't involved!

And some of the problems you've had with 'poor quality' writing is an aspect that I said earlier is something I'm not prepared to look at. If you're suggesting journalistic training for the writers, then out with it! ;)

[FlyingJesus]

Isn't the whole point of a proofreader that these things get checked before publishing :S otherwise it's (as it has been) too late and things look sloppy

Has anyone involved in running this ever actually managed anything before

[Grig]

Whilst it is my job to read every article and make the appropriate changes, it ISN'T part of my job to change their style of writing to be more effective, journalistically. That takes their character and ownership of the article away, and I personally don't think that's fair to do.

However, formatting is something I am unsure on as there are no standards in place of using bold, underlined or italic (and combinations of those) in articles, so it hasn't been communicated to me. If something like that can be determined as department-wide, I'll be happy to look at it more in my proofreading and that should improve quality!

Has formatting gone down hill- it all used to be written in a great handbook. Yes, whilst it may not be your job to change style, it is your job to proof read, and clearly from what we have all discussed today, have not been. Now that's the issue. Another point is, how can one even tackle this if the manager themselves is the one making the errors. I'd love to be an optimist, but for the casual observer, it's just bringing the professionalism of Habbox down.

[-:Undertaker:-]

I think people are sticking the knife in a bit too much here, sure there's always criticisms to be charged and improvements to be made from them but at the same time most of the people I see really sticking the knife in are those who are 20 and above and who are doing degrees in university.

This is a Habbo Hotel fansite remember. I'm sure the 15, 16 or 17 year old me could easily be savaged by the 21 year old me.

[Chippiewill]

I think people are sticking the knife in a bit too much here, sure there's always criticisms to be charged and improvements to be made from them but at the same time most of the people I see really sticking the knife in are those who are 20 and above and who are doing degrees in university.If a department doesn't get feedback then how does it improve?

[Kyle]

sorry why aren't articles proofread before being published, nobody is going to go back 10 articles to read the ones that have just been around to being altered.

more proofreaders needed i think

[CrazyLemurs]

They are not proofread because our current system does not encourage it. I'm able to keep up with THIS level of work, but if we plan to have more writers I would prefer someone else to help me!

[CrazyLemurs]

And (sorry for double post) I've tried to keep up with the backlog I had after going on holiday, which I have now managed to do. All of the articles on the front page (and the last 5 or so before that) have all definitely been done!

[lawrawrrr]

Generally articles aren't proofread first because they can be time sensitive, and a proofreader is more likely to do a bull at once, so instead of having steady publications, we could have like 4 at the same time. But as I've already said at least once in this thread, we're discussing changing this policy.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Kardan]

I think people are sticking the knife in a bit too much here, sure there's always criticisms to be charged and improvements to be made from them but at the same time most of the people I see really sticking the knife in are those who are 20 and above and who are doing degrees in university.

This is a Habbo Hotel fansite remember. I'm sure the 15, 16 or 17 year old me could easily be savaged by the 21 year old me.

I think something like 80%+ of members are 18+ so it's likely that most of the department aren't 15/16/17.

[Mr-Trainor]

I don't think there should be a need for the proof reader to proof read articles before they're going published, because surely there shouldn't be many mistakes if the staff proof read their own articles before/just after publishing them? I'd assume that they'd do that anyway.

[lawrawrrr]

I don't think there should be a need for the proof reader to proof read articles before they're going published, because surely there shouldn't be many mistakes if the staff proof read their own articles before/just after publishing them? I'd assume that they'd do that anyway.

Not all writers have a perfect grasp of spelling and grammar, neither can we expect it to be up to standard. Hell, I work for a newspaper and even those professional reporters aren't as good as you'd expect, that's why they go through subbing & proofing first. I don't see why we should be any different - in my personal opinion articles should be proofed before, with the exception of breaking news / time sensitive. And all other articles should be proofed within 24 hours!


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[Mr-Trainor]

Not all writers have a perfect grasp of spelling and grammar, neither can we expect it to be up to standard. Hell, I work for a newspaper and even those professional reporters aren't as good as you'd expect, that's why they go through subbing & proofing first. I don't see why we should be any different - in my personal opinion articles should be proofed before, with the exception of breaking news / time sensitive. And all other articles should be proofed within 24 hours!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Yeah that's fair enough - I think it's fine having them published before being proof read anyway. Is there only one proof reader at the moment?

[lawrawrrr]

Yeah that's fair enough - I think it's fine having them published before being proof read anyway. Is there only one proof reader at the moment?

Yes - mainly because I thought there weren't enough staff for more, but it is a trial and error process when it comes to the new dept but after reading what you guys have been saying I am putting these together in my monthly review for Rhyss :)


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[Grig]

And (sorry for double post) I've tried to keep up with the backlog I had after going on holiday, which I have now managed to do. All of the articles on the front page (and the last 5 or so before that) have all definitely been done!

There are still quite a few errors though...

Firstly, the use of wrong font on IRhyss' article, that I pointed out a few posts ago. Look at one paragraph from that particular article for example. I will use red to point out the most blatant mistakes that I would have expected to have been dealt with right now.


Here at the Articles Department we don't only publish articles that have been written by our staff... Oh no! we also allow you (the community) to submit your articles as a one off for us to read! If we enjoy them enough, we'll post them on the website and you'll receive a nice little Forum Bade and some VIP... How nice are we? To submit a guest article, all you have to do is PM lRhyss on HabboxForum with your piece. If we enjoy reading your work, we'll make necessary changes and then hit you up with a spot of Habbox.com article posted goodness (really doesn't sense here, but minor)! So simple!

Also, seriously, do we really need to ellipses that often? Obviously, I can go more into grammar, but I'm not harsh and simply want to demonstrate that simple errors like this are actually pretty bad and reflects poorly, particularly when both members of the team who can edit don't seem to think it's a problem. The whole paragraph could actually be cut big time, at the moment it is way too wordy.

This is just one paragraph of one article to demonstrate what I mean, I'm sure I can find way more. Generally, in my view it was edited to an extremely poor standard, and I keep hitting on this because no one is ever going to move forward in this news/articles department if you don't get the most simple elements of your own house in order. How is anyone meant to move forward if the manager makes copious amounts of mistakes in an article and then the editor says it's OK :S?

[CrazyLemurs]

I maintain that things like ellipses keep the character of the article, and I'm very much against stripping away too much of that character like I used to when I was news staff before. The errors in Rhyss' writing also make me sad, because he should be able to write too :(


I'm currently on my iPhone if you are seeing this message. Pretend like you care xx

[Samantha]

I maintain that things like ellipses keep the character of the article, and I'm very much against stripping away too much of that character like I used to when I was news staff before. The errors in Rhyss' writing also make me sad, because he should be able to write too :(


I'm currently on my iPhone if you are seeing this message. Pretend like you care xx

Even if Rhyss makes an error here or there, then surely you should be able to pick up on it when you're proof reading. However, I'm sure he can spell and grammar check his introduction on articles to make you happy.

[Kardan]

There are still quite a few errors though...

Firstly, the use of wrong font on IRhyss' article, that I pointed out a few posts ago. Look at one paragraph from that particular article for example. I will use red to point out the most blatant mistakes that I would have expected to have been dealt with right now.



Also, seriously, do we really need to ellipses that often? Obviously, I can go more into grammar, but I'm not harsh and simply want to demonstrate that simple errors like this are actually pretty bad and reflects poorly, particularly when both members of the team who can edit don't seem to think it's a problem. The whole paragraph could actually be cut big time, at the moment it is way too wordy.

This is just one paragraph of one article to demonstrate what I mean, I'm sure I can find way more. Generally, in my view it was edited to an extremely poor standard, and I keep hitting on this because no one is ever going to move forward in this news/articles department if you don't get the most simple elements of your own house in order. How is anyone meant to move forward if the manager makes copious amounts of mistakes in an article and then the editor says it's OK :S?

What's funny is that I even posted some of those errors in this thread 3 days ago, and still nobody has sorted them :P

[Kyle]

The articles department is so small and there are people sat here proofing every post. Lol. The thing about articles (as opposed to news) is that each individual has their own writing style and everybody uses different syntax, different grammar, and different words.

Generally everybody writing articles should be proofing them themselves first to iron out small mistakes and then forwarding them to somebody whose job it is to edit the articles to a good standard and THEN post them on the main site. It can be an efficient method if there are the staff for it but currently there's one proof reader who also has commitments elsewhere.

I know this is said a lot but it's unbelievably harsh on these people - regardless of their age - who are sacrificing their time and trying to provide content for everybody to enjoy, for a few people to then comb through their articles and pick out every flaw as though marking a school paper. Not everything has to be of national newspaper standard, some things should be allowed to slide as these people hone their skill through experience. 2 ellipses in 1 paragraph is too many... Really grig? Come man, I know that you can write articles to a high standard because I've seen it from you in the past but... Really? Are you nitpicking THAT MUCH?



~~from phone

[Kardan]

The articles department is so small and there are people sat here proofing every post. Lol. The thing about articles (as opposed to news) is that each individual has their own writing style and everybody uses different syntax, different grammar, and different words.

Generally everybody writing articles should be proofing them themselves first to iron out small mistakes and then forwarding them to somebody whose job it is to edit the articles to a good standard and THEN post them on the main site. It can be an efficient method if there are the staff for it but currently there's one proof reader who also has commitments elsewhere.

I know this is said a lot but it's unbelievably harsh on these people - regardless of their age - who are sacrificing their time and trying to provide content for everybody to enjoy, for a few people to then comb through their articles and pick out every flaw as though marking a school paper. Not everything has to be of national newspaper standard, some things should be allowed to slide as these people hone their skill through experience. 2 ellipses in 1 paragraph is too many... Really grig? Come man, I know that you can write articles to a high standard because I've seen it from you in the past but... Really? Are you nitpicking THAT MUCH?



~~from phone

I think there's a difference between typos/grammar and style of writing. Whilst we can't expect the style of writing to be newspaper standard, you do expect typos and other errors to be picked up on.

[Kyle]

I think there's a difference between typos/grammar and style of writing. Whilst we can't expect the style of writing to be newspaper standard, you do expect typos and other errors to be picked up on.
yeah which is why the writers themselves should be prepared to read over their posts at least a couple times before posting. I don't have a personal proofreader for posts n habbox, so I take the time to read over (long) posts before submitting them so they at least make sense. Articles staff should do the same and not rely so heavily on proofreading. AT THE VERY LEAST they should be writing it in a program that offers autocorrection software...

The problem though is not the pointing out of typos, it's that people are picking apart articles and discouraging people from posting more because of such a horrendous reception.

[MKR&*42]

Tbf I know people are saying not to be harsh, but when you can't even spell the name of someone who has spoken to you several times before correctly, nor can you learn to capitalise the start of a sentence... then there is an issue with 'proofreading'.

[Inseriousity.]

I agree with Kyle, I think when you accept a manager position, you get certain advantages and disadvantages. One of the disadvantages is that you will be under much closer scrutiny and a lot of it will be public. Ideally, these things will be discussed in a general context but there'll still be an expectation that the manager will deliver. Regular staff members have not accepted that responsibility so shouldn't have to have their work publically dissected.

Not sure that applies here though, it's largely focused on Rhys' article/introduction and talking more generally about the flaws in the system. I don't believe that staff should write a certain style unless we want to take a concept that already doesn't attract a lot of people's attention and make it even more boring. Part of this discussion seems to stem from a snobbish attitude to writing as if those peasants beneath you could ever expect to match your stylistic creations.

[Grig]

Tbf I know people are saying not to be harsh, but when you can't even spell the name of someone who has spoken to you several times before correctly, nor can you learn to capitalise the start of a sentence... then there is an issue with 'proofreading'.

This is exactly my point. So in this case I am supposed to be nice and say a few stupid errors, despite them being pointed out specifically by numerous individuals were still there. How else is one supposed to point these things out? The point wasn't stylistic, heck it wasn't even grammatical, it was a bunch of foolish errors that were still there and I picked one paragraph; I could find another by someone else at the rate this is going. I picked on the manager, because it's kind of unacceptable.

It's a huge shame too, because your article was nicely written Hayden and it's these kinds of things news would need more of :P!