[Network] The point of 'Links'?

[Jonathan Lax]

Hi all,

I've received tons of emails from people wanting to link with my company profile.  People I've never even met, let alone done business with.  With no context or description of these 'links' the network will not be considered a reliable source of information about Blender professionals.

If links are associated with any 'ranking' system on the network its just simply going to become an incestuous group of those willing to accept links with people they've not actually done business with.  Links should be tied with case studies so roles, transactions and interaction are documented.  This would then mean that these links can be considered an asset or proof of genuine Blender-related activity/professionalism. 

Of course all networks online are heavily biased and full of false information depending on how much money is being paid etc.  I may just be naive in thinking Blender's could be different, certainly in its early stages.

Why not have links related to specific case studies or projects, so anyone viewing a profile can see the extent to which 2 members have worked together?  With no context, the links are worth nothing and only serve as points to be gathered to boost rankings.

Thoughts?

Jonathan Lax
Gecko Animation Ltd.
UK