I seem to have created a bit of an uproar with my reviewer review of Heartdrops.org, with several sources branding it “ludicrous” or “uncalled for.” I realize that the idea of thoroughly examining a review and pointing out areas in which improvements could be made might seem strange, but I think that reviewers should strive to improve their reviewing technique as much as their reviewees should strive to improve their websites.
The stigma around unrequested reviews
One of the complaints about my reviewer review is that the reviewer, Georgina, did not ask for it to be done. Indeed, there seems to be quite a bit of stigma around the idea of reviewing a website that has not requested a review, and people who provide unrequested reviews are often labeled as “bitchy” or “arrogant.” Therefore, I wanted to address the topic of unrequested reviews a bit more generally.
My stance on this topic is that it’s absurd to criticize a reviewer for writing an unrequested review. It’s impossible to visit a site or read an article without forming an opinion about its quality, and publishing those opinions is almost as natural as having them in the first place. Just think about how ridiculous it would be if you had to ask a book’s author or a movie director for permission every time you wanted to post a book or movie review on your blog! We pass judgment and publish our opinions on everything from socks to video games to furniture, why not websites and website reviewers as well?
The need for reviewer reviews
Website reviewers abound all over the internet and, since these reviews are offered on an informal basis, there is no basal level of expertise required for anyone to become a reviewer. As a result, many reviewers offering mediocre reviews and less-than-great advice to their readers. Furthermore, by reviewing another site, reviewers set themselves up as voices of authority which webdesign newcomers are prone to learn from.
Web page reviewers have a potentially tremendous amount of influence and should be held to a higher standard. They should be made to look more critically upon their own work and to examine whether their reviews are actually helpful.
My intentions
With my reviewer reviews, I intend not only to alert reviewers to potential areas for improving their reviews, but to help other webmasters discern which reviewers are worth listening to. Of course, my opinions regarding what makes a good review are just my opinions, and I would welcome any feedback on my own sites or reviews. However, with over 10 years of webdesign experience under my belt, I’d like to think that I’m at least somewhat qualified.
I strive to keep my reviews professional and well-thought-out. I’ve tried as much as possible to provide useful feedback and not to dwell on personal differences in opinion. Of course, I’m only human and apologize if I can’t be 100% unbiased.
Edit: Addressing Heartdrops.org specifically (8/29/2010)
Based on some of the comments I’ve received, I just wanted to make it clear for the record that I have no problem with Georgina of Heartdrops.org at this point. This post was not meant as an attack against her in any way, and I commend her for ultimately being receptive to some of my suggestions.
