Posting external links

[drdavewatford]

Hi guys,

I used to post the odd review on Eurobricks, but since starting my own LEGO blog last year most of my reviews tend to go on there. Also, when browsing the forums, questions often come up which I have addressed (often in detail) via a blog posting. I've often thought about alerting Eurobricks readers of a review that I've written and providing a link, or directing readers to relevant blog postings when they directly address a question that's been asked, but I've generally been reluctant to do so as I'm unsure of the netiquette assocated with this. I'd therefore appreciate guidance from the Mods/Admins on this subject.

Many thanks,

David.

Edited March 25, 2011 by drdavewatford

[Siegfried]

The short answer is that it's bad form. I've got a blog too, but I post everything on EB as well, so I have a right to get on my high horse! But there are ways that you can do this without facing the wrath of the staff;

1. Link to your reviews from your About Me page. Providing you don't go overboard we're cool with that.

2. Answer a question fully and then provide a link to your review. For example;

Bad...

Do the alt models of 6753 Highway Transport use most of the parts?

Read my review.

...and good.

Do the alt models of 6753 Highway Transport use most of the parts?

Most, but not all. The funny thing is the main model doesn't use all the parts either; some, such as the winch, are just used in the alts. I've got loads of photos of this set in the review on my blog.

3. If you want to post reviews in a separate topic, but still want people to visit your blog, post most of the review here (including your conclusion and thoughts), and say that there's more on your site. Posting a review with a photo or two and a link is annoying; EB is a community not a noticeboard.

Ultimately you know the answer to this question. If you can honestly say that you are providing a link rather than the content as you think it's more appropriate and not that you're trying to generate site traffic then it would be best to provide a link.

Feel free to ask further questions if you want more details.

....BTW, your blog is rather nice.

[drdavewatford]

Many thanks, Siegfried - I'm pleased you like my blog, and I appreciate your thoughtful guidance which makes perfect sense to me.

I think my question was significantly driven by laziness rather than a desire to increase traffic to my site ! When I see a question on the forums that I've already carefully considered via a blog posting I often can't be bothered to reply because I've already "been there, done that" ! It would however seem to be OK to reply with a brief 'summary of my thoughts', together with a link for people who want to read more.

Regarding set reviews, your example is helpful and if I do link to reviews on my blog I'll ensure to do as you suggest.

Best wishes,

David.