The need

Before we talk about how such a system can be manifested, we need to discuss what exactly we’re trying to do. What is the need for a globally accessible reputation system?

Well, the easiest scenario to explain would be ecommerce. Given it takes place online and you have no idea who’s on the other end, an established reputation is invaluable. Generally when ecommerce sellers consider a tool, service or something being promoted to them, it comes down to whether it increases ASP (average selling price) and the conversion rate (lookers becomes buyers). Here’s where reputation comes in, it can increase both ASP and the conversion rate.

Another space where reputation is clearly needed yet not quite as prevalent is online dating. Should be no surprises here. If you’re going to date someone, you would want some assurances of who you’ll be meeting when you see them face-to-face for the first time.

Opinity also has “Community”. It seems that Community is more of catchall term than an actual classification of unique reputation requirements. We list “gaming” separately, but besides the size of this segment, it’s just another community that’s formed around a specific activity. What’s the need for reputation in community? Good question, and I’ll try to answer that in a separate posting since is an entire subject onto itself.