I've noticed that several members have changed their posting names from the name used on Epic Ski. Phil did explain his belief that adopting a posting name which uses the persons real name is a means of making posters more accountable for the quality of the post. For those who work in ski associated businesses, Phil stated that using a real name is a means of helping them build a better "brand" and bring more business to that person. So, let's talk about this for the everyday poster.
I choose to keep the name I post under in Epic and 3 other forums. I never, until recently, thought about LP as a "brand", but, it does represent me to those who only know me by my posting, for better or worse. Same with my thinking about others. segbrown and Trecchick will always be how I think of two great women, and, I struggle with a name change. Especially for Trish who has given up a almost a trademark name, while Phil continues to use his valuable trademark. Use of a first name just seems somewhat blahh and I miss the personality that is associated with a nom de plume. A forum can only have so many "Ron" type names (nothing personal, I know he uses that name in other forums), but, does this encourage RonA, RonB etc. I had to smile at Gerry Rhodes use of a personal name, only because of HelluvaSkier who shares the same last but his first is Greg. They only live 2000 miles apart and are in no way related.
I have an unusual last name that is frequently changed to something like dumb shit, so, no way that I will ever use my last name in a public forum. I am concerned that use of a proper name does set some up for harassment by the less responsible internet community, especially for women.
So, jjust my .02 cents, I'd be interested in others viewpoints in how Pugski should communicate expectations when selecting a name.
I choose to keep the name I post under in Epic and 3 other forums. I never, until recently, thought about LP as a "brand", but, it does represent me to those who only know me by my posting, for better or worse. Same with my thinking about others. segbrown and Trecchick will always be how I think of two great women, and, I struggle with a name change. Especially for Trish who has given up a almost a trademark name, while Phil continues to use his valuable trademark. Use of a first name just seems somewhat blahh and I miss the personality that is associated with a nom de plume. A forum can only have so many "Ron" type names (nothing personal, I know he uses that name in other forums), but, does this encourage RonA, RonB etc. I had to smile at Gerry Rhodes use of a personal name, only because of HelluvaSkier who shares the same last but his first is Greg. They only live 2000 miles apart and are in no way related.
I have an unusual last name that is frequently changed to something like dumb shit, so, no way that I will ever use my last name in a public forum. I am concerned that use of a proper name does set some up for harassment by the less responsible internet community, especially for women.
So, jjust my .02 cents, I'd be interested in others viewpoints in how Pugski should communicate expectations when selecting a name.