@ironchachi wrote:
Perhaps a better screening process on the seller end.
You know, this is something that I've thought for a couple of years (ever since the defect system was introduced) would be a far better idea than what we have now.
Rather than continuing to punish experienced sellers who have built reliable reputations on the same basis as newcomers, I think eBay should have some sort of "probationary" period for new sellers, followed by increasingly more lenient rules. Perhaps even a sort of screening test at the end of the "novice" period might be helpful. The test, if failed, could be taken again after a further probationary time. (BTW, I realize there is a hold period and some limits on newbie sellers, but it isn't sufficient or long enough in my view, nor is it the right kind of control).
A scaled system of rules/consequences might help eBay keep those sellers who have proven they know how to sell, know how to make customers happy, and know how not to cause problems for eBay. Consider this: for every egregious error made by a seller who has never bothered to do his/her homework (or a seller who just doesn't care), how many buyers does eBay lose? They'd be better off, if they want to support smaller sellers, to reward those who actually help to keep buyers coming through the door.
This is what many Provinces do with new drivers. It's also what a lot of insurance companies do -- the more experienced and proven you are, the more "free passes" you get for the odd mistake. In BC, if I recall correctly, I had built up enough brownie points as a driver that not only did I get a significant discount on my car insurance, but ICBC would have permitted me two accidents without any consequences to my record or my pocketbook.
I think this concept could work on eBay, if the muck-a-mucks at the boardroom table in San Jose had the guts and creativity to institute it. Of course, that is based on the belief that what eBay CEO's say is what they actually intend to do, and not just lip-service to make shareholders feel warm and fuzzy.
