[Talk-us] Another day, another bad import

[Dale Puch]

I see 4 related but different issues here.

   - New users (or un-noticed users that make poor edits) that cause
   problems for several reasons.
   - bots having unintended consequences
   - new to import users (like the first one but at a new level)
   - poor tools or instructions on making use of those tools

Possible ideas for dealing with these.

For new users, Simple and specific type instructions.  My understanding is
most users start with wanting to add/fix things they are familiar with.  So
specific instructions for those things, with links to videos if possible,
and possibly for each of the major editors (potlatch, JOSM, merkator...)
Make and intro video (1-3 min.) almost mandatory for new users when they
sign up.  A quick welcome, overview of the project, and point out where to
find the instructions above to help them with what they want to do.

Limit new users to some max number of changes per change set.  If they go
over, they have a warning about it but can proceed after clicking thru it.
That change set could be flagged for review by some volunteers for that
task.  If they go thru "training" (instruction material mentioned above) the
limit is removed.

For bots and imports, try something similar.  Limit what they can do until
reviewing some good instructions.


This relies on *up to date, and quality instructions* being read and
followed.  Some sort of tracking for training a user has gone thru as well
as an honor system for that training.  Determining what a user is doing but
number of changes per set and/or what tools they are using.

The instructions and getting people to use them are probably the best place
to put effort.
-- 
Dale Puch
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