GT: Here is an idea for the next release ...
Background
Many LSQL projects, perhaps most, have a large number of links which have been added by admin or by editors, ie: the LSQL LinkOwner is not the real owner of the link. I think most of us would agree that maximizing user participation is desirable, and that having users maintain their own links is the best way to keep the database up to date. What we need is a simple and friendly way for site owners to claim a link that has been added by somebody else, and for admin to track and respond to the claims.
How it might work
A link to a form on detailed pages without a Contact or where LinkOwner==admin, eg: ...
"Are you the webmaster, owner or manager of this link? Would you like to assume responsibility for keeping its description accurate and relevant? We would be happy to assign this privilege to you -- all you have to do is log in (please sign up if you are not already a registered user) and fill out the Site Owner Claim Form for this link"
... which would be something like .../cgi-bin/directory/link-claim.cgi?id=234
The form would include a text area field to allow the users to state and explain their claims. The admin control panel would have an "Accept Claims" link with the usual buttons to accept or reject (with or without emailed reasons). If accepted, the LinkOwner, Contact_Name and Contact_Email column values would be replaced with the new User data.
Background
Many LSQL projects, perhaps most, have a large number of links which have been added by admin or by editors, ie: the LSQL LinkOwner is not the real owner of the link. I think most of us would agree that maximizing user participation is desirable, and that having users maintain their own links is the best way to keep the database up to date. What we need is a simple and friendly way for site owners to claim a link that has been added by somebody else, and for admin to track and respond to the claims.
How it might work
A link to a form on detailed pages without a Contact or where LinkOwner==admin, eg: ...
"Are you the webmaster, owner or manager of this link? Would you like to assume responsibility for keeping its description accurate and relevant? We would be happy to assign this privilege to you -- all you have to do is log in (please sign up if you are not already a registered user) and fill out the Site Owner Claim Form for this link"
... which would be something like .../cgi-bin/directory/link-claim.cgi?id=234
The form would include a text area field to allow the users to state and explain their claims. The admin control panel would have an "Accept Claims" link with the usual buttons to accept or reject (with or without emailed reasons). If accepted, the LinkOwner, Contact_Name and Contact_Email column values would be replaced with the new User data.