Editor:Basics
From Newzbin Documentation
This page describes the aspects involved in being an Editor on Newzbin. It also links to the Editor Application, as well as the in-depth Editor Documentation.
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[edit] What do Editors do?
- They group and name posts on Usenet.
- Basically, Newzbin fetches headers for every binary newsgroup (well, almost, we add new ones all the time, as we find them) on Usenet. These headers are often cryptic, or at least, not very readable.
- It is an Editor's task to 'decode' these headers into something a little more readable for you, the Newzbin member, so that you can search and browse for what is on Usenet, quickly and easily.
Requirements
- There are a few requirements we'd like Editors to have. They're not demanding, most are common sense, and all will help ensure the smooth running of the site.
- You need to spend some time helping out. There is NO point in applying for this position and then not doing anything with it. Save us the time of teaching you how to help, if you're not going to bother.
- We'd like you to be resident on the IRC channel, at least while you're working on the site. If you make a mistake, someone can tell you about it, so it can be fixed, and it's less likely to happen again. You'll be up to speed on the latest developments within the site, and so on.
- Intelligence is non-optional.
Position Details
- Once you're appointed as an Editor, you'll see a few new features and pages on the site. The most important is the Usenet Files view; this is very similar to what you see in a newsreader after loading headers. We pull in headers from just about every binary group on Usenet - so there's no need for you to do the same.
- Armed with this information, you can condense the information into Newzbin Reports. Most people don't want to sit and sift through so much information, so it's your job to make it nicer to read. Once you've made a Newzbin Report, your information will appear on the public side of the site available for all and sundry to read; thus you directly help control what we show.
- You will be given as much help as is required by our existing Editors and Admins once you are accepted; this is another reason for being resident on IRC. It's the quickest way to communicate. Additionally, if you can think of some way to improve the site, the Admins will usually implement it if its possible. Most of the site was devised from suggestions rather than the Admins own innovation.
- Once you're established enough, you will also eventually gain the priviledges to manipulate other aspects of the site. Remember this is a voluntary position; if you can't be bothered, don't apply.
- Usually, we expect Editors to at least make a good handful of reports every week (unless you're away, it'd be nice if you let us know that you're not going to be around for a while too). 'A good handful' has no numeric definition, but for the sake of argument, let's say 10 per week is a good starting point.
- If you do not have time to make that many, we also accept Editors on a part-time basis, whereby you will not receive free use of the site (normal Editors do), but you can make as few reports as you like. However, you really do need to spend a bit of time learning how to make proper reports at first, before we'd be happy to let you remain a part-time Editor. Speak to an EdAdmin or Caesium about this.
[edit] Who can be an Editor?
- Anyone! You can be an Editor. We have a quick and simple application at http://v3.newzbin.com/account/application/.
- Most applications are approved within a couple of days. There is a small team of Ed-Admins who process these applications (they're also volunteers, so show them lots of gratitude for their help!). Occasionally, applications are denied if they think you're not cut out to be an Editor. You can discuss your individual case with the Ed-Admins if you feel the need.
[edit] What's the Editor Agreement?
- When you apply to be an Editor, you will be sent an e-mail containing an agreement that you must read and return to the address in the mail. In order for us to approve your Editor application, we need a reply to this email, containing your full name, and the city in which you reside. The full address isn't necessary.
- The agreement states that you take responsibility for your own actions by contributing to Newzbin; if you're not happy doing this, then you should not be an Editor. Please make sure you read it if you do apply.
- (note that the editor agreements are not yet being sent out; they'll start being sent within the next few weeks, and will most likely apply to all current editors as well)
[edit] Editor Documentation
- The Editor Documentation provides help, guidelines, and resources for our Editors. These try to ensure site quality, and efficient use of time Editors spend on the site.