Generally I only apply for RoadTests that I can provide information that might be of benefit to someone else.
Sometimes I have a good use that might be slightly different from the normal.
It would be nice to treat them as a learning opportunity, but the reality is that 60 days is often a bit short for that, given the other tasks/workload.
While the Tax issue is a little unfair, we down in the lower end of the earth have had a similar experience with element14 and the giveaway.
For many years NZ (and some other countries) were excluded because someon in the legal department decided so.
I had written evidence from our governement deartment that it applied only to games of chance where you paid (element14) for the chance to be involved, and not for these giveaways.
Thankfully and finally someone managed to get it modified and now we are able to participate.
So I think your pay the $1 might start falling into the game of chance rules ....as far as the legal department are concerned.
It could be worth exploring why the US goverment considers it as income, when it's not actually a prize but is an item you do a test on.
I can see that they want to stop the citizens being paid in 'prizes' but in these situations it clearly isn't the case.
The first thing I always do is figure out if I can even test the item, if not then I dont apply, next, can I make it interesting for others, I dont like to just regurgitate the spec sheet (Something I see all too often)
even if the item has no real value to me (I can't use it beyond the test) I will still consider it if I can test it in a meaningful way, this is a way to give back and also good practice in producing content so I get to improve over time. not every test can be a fancy oscilloscope or other expensive item, take the low cost items with as much enthusiasm as the expensive.
Oh and also, Do I have time to perform the road test, if not then also dont apply
I only apply if I think the product is likely to be worth the time it takes to do a decent review. Since I have less time than I would like this is more about interest than the value of the item. From a strict cost benefit (to the reviewer) point of view only the most expensive items could turn a cash profit. I've dismissed a few things as being far too complicated, the TI Delfino board (where no proper reviews were returned and only one interim review) was such a case - a very complex processor which was obviously going to take weeks to get to grips with.
The chances of something fitting my own plans but coming up just at the right time and before I've bought it are not very high - so I don't apply for many road tests.
(I was miffed that I bought the R&S Scope about two weeks before the road test came up - but that's life.)
I have applied for a few Roadtest, and I apply for a road test based on couple of factors
- When I find the product interesting, and I think of a project that I can include it in wright away. And I also have some experience with a similar product in the past so that I can post a good review.
- In addition, I also check out the Roadtest dates to check if I would have time to complete the Roadtest, because some months with my day job are busy when compared to the others, that is I check if I have atleast 70-80 hours over the period of the road test, which I could invest to post a review.
I haven't had a 60/60 road test yet I don't see how there can be so many that are as I know even products I have seen reviewed I wouldn't give them such a high rating but then the inadequate review verifies its just a slap together. Either they think they will get more road tests the higher the rating on a product or the less explanation into their scoring of the product is needed the higher the rating. As someone that doesn't know much about the more expensive boards and products I rely heavily on my peers and their reviews and tests. I still think a subscription based road test would be great and would probably void out the prize part as well, I would love to have a better opportunity to have a road test with a lot not taking part (Americans) but I would also like better road test reviews or at least a honest review or outline on it even if its not in depth. So if it was a cross the board that everyone pays for the program or a "upgraded" road test group I think that would be cool. But being Canadian I am not plagued with that but would like to have a resolution to for my neighbors down south.
Not sure if this is something that can be looked into or not but would be cool if there was a loop to get it so they could participate more.
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