Srajan, I just set upon your latest review only to learn that it's been left in indefinite intro mode. That begs a real question. Why not just cancel it as the manufacturer asked? That would be so much cleaner and not send any mixed messages, unless those were your intention? Cheers, Thomas
That's a multi-layered issue, Tom. First, the review was a mutually made commitment to net the usual preview I publish before receiving my loaners. It went up months ago and I was already three good pages into it when the bell sounded. Why delete good work as though my time wasn't worth anything? I explained that and still was asked not to proceed. Two, our reviews document our interactions and experiences front to back so that prospective buyers may glean how they will be treated. Three, when things go pear-shaped as they will from time to time—that's simply the human condition—the real issue is not that they did but how they're being handled. Most any cockup can turn into real opportunity whenever there's willingness and true professionalism. When other choices are made, readers deserve to know as well. Just making things go away as though they never happened serves nobody. As is, this manufacturer at least knows now to improve their communications, packaging and scheduling. Caveat emptor and all that Jazz. Srajan
I appreciate that reviewing is how you make your living, Srajan. Don't think I don't get that. But what happens when a review gets cancelled after the fact like this one was? Does the manufacturer get a refund on whatever fee he paid to be reviewed? That would seem fair. On the other hand, there's the argument you already made; that you're already a few pages into it which represents time and energy on your part. No matter what, in this scenario somebody would seem to get the short end of the stick (just thinking out loud). Thomas
It's why we don't really cancel reviews. There should be no need when two parties have mutually agreed on doing a review in the first place. I work hard to be consistent so manufacturers know exactly what to expect. The cancellation scenario doesn't really present itself. Why would it? This case was unique in that I still had no woofers. I couldn't proceed when the curtain came down. I received no payment so if anyone got the short end, I did. Yes the maker is out two-way ship fees but they decided to back out, not I. This really was a very rare incident. Let's leave it at that, please! Srajan
I do agree that it rarely ever happens. That's why I had to ask. I didn't understand your reasons for leaving up a preview. I still don't agree entirely but as they say, you own your own business, you get to make the rules. Thomas
