Redisplay Messages: Compact | Brief | All | Full Show Messages: All | Without Replies| Author: | Miro78  | | Posted: | Jul 18, 2020 13:36 | | Subject: | Missing large/high quality images in catalog | | Viewed: | 74 times | | Topic: | Catalog | | Status: | Open | |
| A lot of old Lego sets have very small images in the Bricklink catalog. They
look like they were obtained from printed sources from the printed catalogs that
used to be included with those sets back in the 80s/90s. My suggestion is to
see if better quality and higher resolution images can be obtained from The Lego
Group for the Bricklink catalog. After all, Lego owns Bricklink. What does the
admin team think of this? Perhaps I am assuming too much and a convenient archive
of these images for all of these old sets does not readily exist for Bricklinks
use. It's worth checking into it. Are there any objections?
Miro
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 |
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 13, 2020 12:51 | | Subject: | Re: Add feature of minimum FB for listings. | | Viewed: | 58 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, bje writes:
| | Some of the best buyers I've had the privilege of welcoming in my store have
been zero/low feedback users. So while I understand the rationale for this and
of course it being elective, I personally think that all users have to start
somewhere, so it is maybe not in the best interest of stores to needlessly limit
the buying experience.
Laws are not the same everywhere, so I guess we are fortunate that no order is
legally binding until I as the seller have acknowledged it. If I am really uncomfortable
with the buyer or what he/she is ordering, I reserve the right to cancel the
order, demand the buyer use a shipping method with insurance and tracking or
to demand another form of payment. If the buyer cannot agree, that is a red flag
and it will strengthen my reasons for cancelling.
For fraudulent chargebacks, use the NPB process and negative feedback, else such
buyers just get a free pass to go do the same thing to the next seller. We cannot
prevent fraudsters and scammers anyway. And in my personal opinion, the feedback
system is not a fair guide to good or bad users, which is why I hardly ever look
at it. So for me personally, this would not be a help at all and might just make
some buyers wary of placing orders in the first case. Some users might feel different,
but the idea that the site should limit the buying experience beyond already
having minimum buys, minimum lot averages, NPB and the one-sided right to cancel
for sellers, does not sit well.
|
I have no stake in this as I stopped selling parts and sets long ago, but I don't
see the harm this would cause if it's executed properly (meaning invisibly).
It's no different of a feature than minimum buy, bulk lot price limits, or
restricting countries that can purchase from you, and if it's opt in, than
the sellers that don't want to participate will have less competition from
other sellers. Buyers will be oblivious to it, so they won't know.
It's no different than how Bricklink stores operate now. Bricklink is a marketplace
with thousands of stores with their unique inventories and rules (minimum buys,
lot limits, speed/efficiency of operation, etc). Just another tool. The question
really becomes, is there enough interest from sellers for this feature for Briclink
to be bothered with implementing and what other coding/database issues this would
cause (Price Guide listing and sales data).
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 13, 2020 12:31 | | Subject: | Re: Add feature of minimum FB for listings. | | Viewed: | 29 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:
| | Presumably any items that get hidden behind a minimum feedback would also need
to be hidden from anyone not logged in too.
|
Yes, that would have to be case then. Perhaps those wanting this feature would
just need to accept that and live with it.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 13, 2020 12:18 | | Subject: | Re: Add feature of minimum FB for listings. | | Viewed: | 39 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:
| | If they are intent on scamming, won't they just place five cheap orders to
build up enough feedback to scam?
|
I thought about that, but if it's up to the store to set the feedback threshold,
they won't know how many feedbacks they would need. Also if the inventory
does not even show up in listings until said threshold is met, they won't
know to target that particular store with the "hidden" threshold.
I understand the frustration of the seller that gets scammed and PayPal is not
siding on the seller's side. Since Bricklink does not want to get involved
with the monetary transaction or protecting the seller in any way, this is not
a bad idea of a feature as long as it's executed in a way where the buyer
is not made aware of it. If the buyer does not see a listing for that store,
than they can't even get upset. There will always be those stores that will
want to take the risk and sell to 0 feedback or whatever feedback buyer, so there
will always be inventory for them. Ultimately supply/demand comes into play.
I see this as no harm no foul sort of a strategy given the situation with PayPal
siding heavily in buyer's favor.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 13, 2020 12:11 | | Subject: | Re: Add feature of minimum FB for listings. | | Viewed: | 33 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Heartbricker writes:
| | In Suggestions, Miro78 writes:
| | In Suggestions, Heartbricker writes:
| | This will be unpopular with new buyers but may have support from sellers who
have been defrauded.
We instituted a measure to protect from fraud (based on being defrauded in the
past) where we require buyers to have a minimum of 5-10 positive feedbacks in
order to purchase certain high priced sets.
Currently, we can only put that in the item's description and buyers ignore
it and place the orders anyway which creates a sticky situation.
So the suggestion is:
Add a feature to individual listings that will prevent buyers with feedback rating
under X to purchase a certain item.
I can see merit to limiting X to 10 so sellers don't demand a buyer has 10,000
to be able to purchase items.
We allow 0 and low FB rated buyers to buy 99.99% of listings in our shop but
have been burnt a couple of times by 0 FB buyers who bought sealed sets in mint
condition and claimed they were opened and used and returned us boxes with non-LEGO
items in one instance and ransacked set on another purchase- PayPal obviously
sided with the buyers both times.
I'm hoping this will be a measure that would prevent this type of fraud and
will be optional to allow sellers the chance to opt out.
|
I understand your concern and I think the best way to handle this would be to
allow individual stores to choose this as an option as opposed to a site wide
mandate. This way you can choose to set your restrictions to your heart's
content and for your peace of mind and allowing others to take the risk if they
choose to do so. The best way to implement this would be so that your listings
won't even show up to those buyers to begin with should their feedback threshold
not meet your criteria settings. Additionally it would be useful if you could
choose various options for your threshold, not just feedback, but also which
types of sets (perhaps select them invidividualy or broadly based on price point,
popularity, risk, etc).
Miro
|
I completely agree and that is why i specifically said that the seller will have
to opt in on their own discretion.
|
Perhaps I missed that bit of information.
Important part of this feature would need to be where the buyer is not aware
of the inventory in your store that they are not permitted to purchase, otherwise
this will be off-putting to the buyer and could possibly cause buyers to turn
away from this marketplace and/or your store.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 13, 2020 12:04 | | Subject: | Re: Add feature of minimum FB for listings. | | Viewed: | 40 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Heartbricker writes:
| | This will be unpopular with new buyers but may have support from sellers who
have been defrauded.
We instituted a measure to protect from fraud (based on being defrauded in the
past) where we require buyers to have a minimum of 5-10 positive feedbacks in
order to purchase certain high priced sets.
Currently, we can only put that in the item's description and buyers ignore
it and place the orders anyway which creates a sticky situation.
So the suggestion is:
Add a feature to individual listings that will prevent buyers with feedback rating
under X to purchase a certain item.
I can see merit to limiting X to 10 so sellers don't demand a buyer has 10,000
to be able to purchase items.
We allow 0 and low FB rated buyers to buy 99.99% of listings in our shop but
have been burnt a couple of times by 0 FB buyers who bought sealed sets in mint
condition and claimed they were opened and used and returned us boxes with non-LEGO
items in one instance and ransacked set on another purchase- PayPal obviously
sided with the buyers both times.
I'm hoping this will be a measure that would prevent this type of fraud and
will be optional to allow sellers the chance to opt out.
|
I understand your concern and I think the best way to handle this would be to
allow individual stores to choose this as an option as opposed to a site wide
mandate. This way you can choose to set your restrictions to your heart's
content and for your peace of mind and allowing others to take the risk if they
choose to do so. The best way to implement this would be so that your listings
won't even show up to those buyers to begin with should their feedback threshold
not meet your criteria settings. Additionally it would be useful if you could
choose various options for your threshold, not just feedback, but also which
types of sets (perhaps select them invidividualy or broadly based on price point,
popularity, risk, etc).
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 11, 2020 10:57 | | Subject: | Re: Dark Green - who's going to crack first? | | Viewed: | 40 times | | Topic: | Colors | |
| In Colors, WoutR writes:
| | In Colors, 1974 writes:
| | In Colors, Miro78 writes:
| | Danish language has no word for pink, so all pinks are purples, which makes
it very confusing
|
Yes we do, it's called "lyserød" (light red), but we now use the word "pink"
like everybody else
|
|
My apologies for mistake. I was going off on what I heard from someone say in
the past. Probably this rumor started because the meaning means light red, as
you say.
| | | | Also "purple" is "lilla" in danish, we do not use the word "purple" at all
Cheers
Ole
|
The Dutch do not use pink. We use "rose" (which is NOT a flower). The "pink"
is Dutch for your little finger. I do not want to suggest any color for that
finger, we should not repeat any flesh/nougat discussions 
|
In my first native language (Slovak) the word for pink (ružová) also comes from
the flower rose (ruže), and it literally translates to rosy. Also the word for
green (zelená) is derived from the word for (zeleň) greenery as in plants and
word zelenina means vegetables.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 10, 2020 11:29 | | Subject: | Re: Dark Green - who's going to crack first? | | Viewed: | 53 times | | Topic: | Colors | |
| In Colors, misbi writes:
| | In Colors, qwertyboy writes:
| | In Colors, yorbrick writes:
| | In Colors, misbi writes:
| | Now that TLG has acquired BL, isn't it about time that we set about resolving
conflicting colour names? The flesh/nougat adjustment shows that it's possible,
so when are we going to rename BL Dark Green to Earth Green?
Obviously there are many others which need aligned over time, but currently Dark
Green should be an immediate priority.
|
I'd keep it as it is. The flesh -- nougat at least had a reason, even
if not everyone agreed with the reason.
|
This. Also, what is "earth green" supposed to be? At least, "dark green" is very
obvious - I don't think any non-afol would have an issue identifying which
is the dark green brick in a line-up of colored bricks.
Niek.
|
Earth Green is something that's not identical to TLG's name for 'standard'
Green. Non-afols coming here after shopping at LEGO's website will be accustomed
to TLG's colour names. Also, Earth Green is no worse than Sand Green!
|
Take a look at the list here with the names
http://ryanhowerter.net/colors.php
Lego's colors for all the pinks are just crazy
dark pink (BL 47) is bright purple (Lego 221)
bright pink (BL 104) is light purple (Lego 222)
magenta (BL 71) is bright reddish violet (Lego 124)
Danish language has no word for pink, so all pinks are purples, which makes
it very confusing
blue (BL 7) is bright blue (Lego 23)
medium blue (BL 42) is medium blue (Lego 102)
*bright blue sounds lighter in color than medium blue
dark turquoise (BL 39) is bright bluish green (Lego 107)
Lego name is less obvious than BL name
You can compare the names for the rest, but the Lego names are very wordy often
times and quite confusing.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 2, 2020 10:56 | | Subject: | Re: Sprues | | Viewed: | 42 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, hpoort writes:
| | In Catalog, Leftoverbricks writes:
| | Are sprues like the one from
[p=x8] in the catalog?
If yes: how to find?
If no: why not?
|
I would have been interested in buying them when I first discovered their use
in MOCs. I had to buy new leaves instead, in the hope they would include the
sprues.
This might be one of those cases where it would be good to make an exception
and include it in the catalogue. You could try to add it and see what the catmins
think of it. Whether the sprue alone stands a chance, I don't think so, but
the 'leaves on sprue' part has precedents in the flowers, coins and keys.
|
I save my sprues from this plant element. I have used them here and there, but
not in great quantity. If I was still selling parts, I would have sold them.
On the flip side, the PAB cups and the BAM plastic cases are sold here. They
are in a sense a conduit in getting the part to your home, much like the sprue
on this plant piece.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 2, 2020 10:51 | | Subject: | Re: Coral part should not be in the Plant Section | | Viewed: | 32 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, yorbrick writes:
| | In Catalog, alcedoatthis writes:
| | Hello Bricklinkers,
Some minutes ago, I found out that the "Coral" part (49577) is included in the
Plant Section of Bricklink, which is scientifically wrong. Coral is an Animal!
Please check additional information here:
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/coral.html
I wrote to customer service of Bricklink explaining this mistake. I hope they
change this part to the Animal Water section!
Best,
Rita
|
As it represented seaweed first, it is a plant. To me, I'd identify it as
seaweed, but if people also recognize it as coral, then maybe that should be
added to the name for search purposes. I wonder how many people pick one of these
up and the first word that comes to mind when searching for it is thallus.
Interesting this case is vice versa, a part that has been used extensively as
plants
* | | 55236 Plant Vine Seaweed / Appendage Spiked / Bionicle Spine
Parts: Plant |
but is listed as an animal part, as that was its original use. Although at least
it had its name changed to include seaweed and plant vine, as that it was it
is also recognizable as.
|
That is the great thing about Lego, a part that was initially designed as a seaweed
can also be repurposed as a coral. This makes it difficult for categorizing especially
when a part takes on a latter role such as this spike piece (55236) that originally
was used in Bionicle sets but now is used more as a plant vine thingy piece.
That is the beauty of Lego elements, they can take on a different role. I would
not get too hung up on the classification of the seaweed/coral piece. Just keep
it in the plants category as most people would expect to find it there. I am
a biologist and I know that early biologists felt to compelled to classify everything
in biology by bucketing them into distinct groups, but life and nature could
care less how we humans classify things.
I'll leave this thread with my example of the lipstick element (93094). The
way I used it, it's a bird's beak, so it could be classified as an animal
body part in the BL catalogue if Lego chose to use it as such had it's first
appearance been this case. It can also be a chalk writing element to write on
chalkboards.
I enjoyed reading this thread's discussion. I was curious if The New Elementary
blog web page had this same conundrum, and they did, but they did not go
into any lengths in pursuing the discussion and instead focused on the usage
of the part. Article: https://www.newelementary.com/2019/07/plant-or-animal-closer-look-at-plant.html
Miro
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|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 25, 2020 11:40 | | Subject: | Need of Plate/Tile Round Modified categories | | Viewed: | 57 times | | Topic: | Catalog | | Status: | Open | |
| If this is on the Catalog roadmap, my apologies, but I am noticing some logic
discrepancies on how some of these parts are allocated to their current categories.
Fo obvious reasons, part 25269 (Tile, Round 1 x 1 Quarter) is in the Tile Round
category, because 4 of these makes a nice circle shape.
Therefore I am assuming Part 24246 (Tile, Modified 1 x 1 Half Circle Extended
(Stadium)) is in the Tile Modified category because it's irregular and makes
no circle shape, despite one side being round.
Yet part 39739 (Tile, Round 1 x 1 Heart) is in the Tile Round category, despite
the fact that it makes no circular shape (clover leaf shape at best). To me,
they should either be in the Tile Round or Tile Modified as it's confusing
things.
There are other parts in the Tile Round category which are clearly modified like
This is also true for Plate Round category items. Perhaps it's time to create
Plate Round Modified and Tile Round Modified categories. There may be reason
for not doing this now, but things like this really bug me when searching for
parts where my logic fails to find them, usually parts falling into 2 or 3 categories
due to vague nature of classification.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 22, 2020 13:40 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 24 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | This should had been addressed when these parts started to appear first back
in 2014. Problem with many images is that it's hard to tell if they are MCM
or SCM, especially with the digital images replacing actual images. That being
said, this needs to happen sooner than later. It's an important classification
that affects those that need to know or care.
|
I've added this to the roadmap because there is more involved here than just
identifying and retitling MCM parts. It's the most recent project added
(end of the list):
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=2476
Our goal is to get through one project every month. This is not an overly complicated
project, so hopefully it will happen relatively soon. I would suggest this to
anyone reading: begin working on compiling a list of MCM parts so that when we
begin the project we can breeze through it quickly.
|
Thank you for adding this to the roadmap. It will be a great asset in the catalogue
and sounds the like MCM acronym is sticking. As some of the parts get identified,
I imagine some entries will need to be changed to "a" and "b" during the transition
that happened in 2014, like the Friends legs that I identified. I also see the
dark blue legs with tan and dark shoes has probably more to do with the original
intent being tan, which looks tan with MCM, but look dark tan when tan color
is applied to dark blue mold, as you can see in my photo here: https://www.bricklink.com/message.asp?ID=851619
with printed color
with MCM
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 22, 2020 11:42 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 27 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, BricksThatStick writes:
| | In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Stellar writes:
| | I would like to see dual-molded parts differentiated too, maybe a new suffix
needs to be created... Maybe Stormchaser has already thought about some options?
|
I would say it needs to be something in the titles, not in the part number.
We would need something very short because torso assemblies where some parts
occur already have crammed titles. So a code, of sorts, like BAM. It will need
to be something not used in any other part titles or numbers.
Having all that in mind, what do you think about adding the letters DMO
(standing for Dual MOlded) to the titles of dual-molded parts?
This would include those parts that come in similar printed/molded patterns
that are not currently distinguished with separate catalog entries.
This will allow two things: finding all dual molded parts in the catalog by search
and excluding dual molded parts from searches.
|
Anything to distinguish the Dual MOlded (DMO) from Non-Dual Molded would help.
Although I am not sure people would know what DMO stands for outside of this
thread. I understand the need for a unique acronym.
DCM could be another acronym for Dual Color Mold if you want a 3 letter acronym,
since the O in DMO is not that fitting. This way if they ever do a Triple Color
Mold (TCM) you could distinguish it easily.
Miro
|
or MCM for Multi Color Mould to cover any future eventuality.
I changed them when I changed the legs and torsos around based on the theory
Robert mentioned up the thread but I'm glad it was brought up and is being
discussed 
|
I like the MCM (Multi Color Mould) acronym. It future proofs things and certainly
distinguishes from SCM (Single Color Mould) parts. Thanks for the suggestion.
This should had been addressed when these parts started to appear first back
in 2014. Problem with many images is that it's hard to tell if they are MCM
or SCM, especially with the digital images replacing actual images. That being
said, this needs to happen sooner than later. It's an important classification
that affects those that need to know or care.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 21, 2020 17:37 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 31 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Stellar writes:
| | I would like to see dual-molded parts differentiated too, maybe a new suffix
needs to be created... Maybe Stormchaser has already thought about some options?
|
I would say it needs to be something in the titles, not in the part number.
We would need something very short because torso assemblies where some parts
occur already have crammed titles. So a code, of sorts, like BAM. It will need
to be something not used in any other part titles or numbers.
Having all that in mind, what do you think about adding the letters DMO
(standing for Dual MOlded) to the titles of dual-molded parts?
This would include those parts that come in similar printed/molded patterns
that are not currently distinguished with separate catalog entries.
This will allow two things: finding all dual molded parts in the catalog by search
and excluding dual molded parts from searches.
|
Anything to distinguish the Dual MOlded (DMO) from Non-Dual Molded would help.
Although I am not sure people would know what DMO stands for outside of this
thread. I understand the need for a unique acronym.
DCM could be another acronym for Dual Color Mold if you want a 3 letter acronym,
since the O in DMO is not that fitting. This way if they ever do a Triple Color
Mold (TCM) you could distinguish it easily.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 21, 2020 16:20 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 38 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | I feel like there is no real definition for the term decorated that should be
defined. As far I am concerned, dual color molding is not really decorating.
|
There are no real definitions for a number of things and we're working right
now to change that.
As for dual-molded parts, I would say that the appearance of the part
is what is important. If a part appears to have a pattern, then BrickLink should
probably treat it as a patterned part regardless of the production method.
This is because when anyone is looking for an item, I imagine they would want
a clean distinction between plain parts and multicolored or patterned parts.
That's not to say we couldn't distinguish dual-molded parts in some
way, either with titles or item numbers. For example, we already distinguish
patterned parts that have stickers using the part title.
Oddly enough, at least for some patterned parts where the production is with
molding, we don't identify the part as a patterned part:
But sometimes we do:
Which makes me wonder what the catalog means when it uses the word "embossed:"
Anyway, there's still a lot to clean up all across the catalog. The first
step is enacting solid guidelines. Right now we're working on these two
pages and would greatly appreciate input before they become official in 11 (or
fewer) days:
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=2487
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=2479
The dual-molding issue will have to wait until we get to a catalog page that
would address it.
|
I would certainly like dual-molded differentiated from printed or stickered.
The additional wrinkle is there is no way of knowing when a part is dual-molded
or not.
For example these legs
come in dual molded and printed version of the shoes, but BL did not implement
the differentiation even though I brought it up in the past. The quality is vastly
different and hence why Lego decided to start doing dual molding of minifig/minidoll
parts
Miro
|
Hey look at that. I found my post about this from 70 months ago.
https://www.bricklink.com/message.asp?ID=851619
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 21, 2020 15:35 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 27 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, yorbrick writes:
| | | | As for dual-molded parts, I would say that the appearance of the part
is what is important. If a part appears to have a pattern, then BrickLink should
probably treat it as a patterned part regardless of the production method.
This is because when anyone is looking for an item, I imagine they would want
a clean distinction between plain parts and multicolored or patterned parts.
That's not to say we couldn't distinguish dual-molded parts in some
way, either with titles or item numbers. For example, we already distinguish
patterned parts that have stickers using the part title.
|
| | The dual-molding issue will have to wait until we get to a catalog page that
would address it.
|
I don't care either way, but it would be very useful to know which legs are
dual molded (and so have the correct colours on the back of the legs) vs those
that are printed (and so have a single colour on the backs).
|
I agree. Not to mention those that want to remove the decoration for their customization
or whatever purpose will not be able to do so with the dual-molded version.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 21, 2020 15:33 | | Subject: | Re: Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 44 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | I feel like there is no real definition for the term decorated that should be
defined. As far I am concerned, dual color molding is not really decorating.
|
There are no real definitions for a number of things and we're working right
now to change that.
As for dual-molded parts, I would say that the appearance of the part
is what is important. If a part appears to have a pattern, then BrickLink should
probably treat it as a patterned part regardless of the production method.
This is because when anyone is looking for an item, I imagine they would want
a clean distinction between plain parts and multicolored or patterned parts.
That's not to say we couldn't distinguish dual-molded parts in some
way, either with titles or item numbers. For example, we already distinguish
patterned parts that have stickers using the part title.
Oddly enough, at least for some patterned parts where the production is with
molding, we don't identify the part as a patterned part:
But sometimes we do:
Which makes me wonder what the catalog means when it uses the word "embossed:"
Anyway, there's still a lot to clean up all across the catalog. The first
step is enacting solid guidelines. Right now we're working on these two
pages and would greatly appreciate input before they become official in 11 (or
fewer) days:
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=2487
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=2479
The dual-molding issue will have to wait until we get to a catalog page that
would address it.
|
I would certainly like dual-molded differentiated from printed or stickered.
The additional wrinkle is there is no way of knowing when a part is dual-molded
or not.
For example these legs
come in dual molded and printed version of the shoes, but BL did not implement
the differentiation even though I brought it up in the past. The quality is vastly
different and hence why Lego decided to start doing dual molding of minifig/minidoll
parts
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 21, 2020 13:06 | | Subject: | Is dual color mold really decorated? | | Viewed: | 132 times | | Topic: | Catalog | | Status: | Open | |
| Should dual molded legs or arms in their respective assemblies really be considered
as decorated?
To me BL considered the decorated as by means of printing or applying decoration
using stickers.
example
the reasoning is, how is that any different from legs assembly with single color
legs but different color hips or mismatched leg colors?
I feel the same way about dual molded arms
There are reasons for not separating them, mainly for new buyers not knowing
or caring about the difference or just the general way of looking at it, but
I feel like there is no real definition for the term decorated that should be
defined. As far I am concerned, dual color molding is not really decorating.
Any thoughts?
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 14, 2020 10:19 | | Subject: | Re: Pink, light pink and paradisa pink | | Viewed: | 50 times | | Topic: | Colors | |
| In Colors, StormChaser writes:
| | In Colors, WoutR writes:
| | I don't know what the current status is of the planned catalog color project,
|
Still planned.
It would probably be best to update all the existing catalog guidelines before
doing much of anything else major and that's what we're working on.
I've attached a photo showing where we are on this.
No highlighting = not updated, but should be relatively easy updates
Yellow highlighting = not updated and will be controversial/difficult updates
Pink highlighting = expected completion by June 1st
Green highlighting = completed updates
|
Will Colors (#10) and/or Colors Additional Notes (#11) include having both BL
and Official Lego naming & lego color ID on this list? https://www.bricklink.com/catalogColors.asp?utm_content=subnav
It would be beneficial if it contained real image examples in some sort of grid
format perhaps on a separate page as a visual aide of what the colors look like,
for those that are new or unsure on some of these. I know Ryan Howerter has done
excellent job at this already.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Apr 16, 2020 13:41 | | Subject: | Re: Category Definitions Discussion | | Viewed: | 44 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, yorbrick writes:
| | In Catalog, hpoort writes:
| | I don't see the definition of Plate, Modified and Tile, Modified helping
to choose between them for parts like .
|
|
I agree. The distinction between Plate, Modified and Tile, Modified is quite
confusing as are some parts that blur between the 2 categories of Brick, Modified
and Slope, Curved such as
which have no studs and are less like a brick and more like a slope much like
yet
have studs and curved surface much like
These all fall in the gray zone in my opinion and it's hard for admins trying
to classify them. I believe some time ago it was defined as if the base is brick
with curved surface or a curved slope.
There will be many more considerations for other part categories and a daunting
task it will be.
| | | | Coincidentally, earlier today I noted the category Mini Dolls Hair - Is there
any physical distinction between hair originally used for mini dolls and hair
used for minifigures? If not, why would this be a separate category?
|
Some are worn by both minidolls and minifigures, such as:
* | | 92254pb01 Mini Doll, Hair Combo, Hair with Hat, Long Ponytail, Side Bangs, Hole in Back with Molded Black Horse Riding Helmet Pattern
Parts: Mini Doll, Hair |
https://www.bricklink.com/catalogItemIn.asp?P=92254pb01&in=M
|
This was already answered, but it appears that there is no distinction, except
that some of the minidoll hair pieces appeared first with minidolls. Otherwise,
they fit both heads for the most part. I am not sure if any of the ponytails/overhangs
cause any issues for one type of figure over other.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 20, 2020 11:53 | | Subject: | Re: Just a little something to BRIGHTEN your day | | Viewed: | 31 times | | Topic: | Colors | |
| In Colors, WoutR writes:
| | In Colors, mfav writes:
| | I know it doesn't count for much, but, yeah. I agree. Opal.
Anything to lessen the color naming confusion is good.
|
I agree. Opal.
I did not protest, but the Satin never made sense to me.
|
I would prefer Opal over Satin. That being said, it is the iridescence that is
giving this color the effect. So Iridescent is a better adjective to the color
effect. Satin makes even less sense, as wikipedia describes it as glossy with
a dull back.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iridescence
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opal
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satin
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Feb 29, 2020 11:27 | | Subject: | Inventory Backup/Restore/Deletion Prevention | | Viewed: | 119 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | | Status: | Open | | Vote: | [Yes|No] | |
| To prevent accidental deletion of inventory or restore of store's inventory
for various reasons like accidental deletions, price changes, etc. Currently
changes cannot be undone and a self administered restore function would be beneficial.
Requiring administrative assistance in restoring one's inventory is inconvenient
on both the seller and the BL team.
Remedy Option 1
To prevent strain on the infrastructure of constant periodic backups of everyone's
inventory, the backup would only initiate when a user enters their store's
inventory page, and limited to certain time intervals (once a day, once per hour,
or whatever the system can handle). The seller would have the option of self
initiate backup as needed.
Remedy Option 2
If the infrastructure cannot handle backups on their own system, perhaps Bricklink
can prompt user with an option to download inventory prior to deletion or major
changes being done to it, and self administer restore function.
Remedy Option 3
At the least, the system should require a re-login to the account when inventory
deletion function is selected to prevent accidental deletion of the store's
inventory.
The above options are no mutually exclusive and can be implemented in tandem
depending on what Bricklink system/team can implement.
|
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Dec 17, 2019 09:02 | | Subject: | Re: 75192-1: Millennium Falcon inventory by bags | | Viewed: | 33 times | | Topic: | Inventories | |
| In Inventories, slovdahl writes:
| | May sound like a strange request, but has anyone broken down the inventory for
this set by bag numbers? I don't keep my sets built for long. In building
this set, i kept imagining how difficult it will be to build it again without
the pieces broken down by bag steps. I know it would be a task to divide it
back up by bag numbers, but would love to have the inventory broken down that
way just in case.
|
Have you tried contacting Lego customer service? I am sure Lego knows what's
in each bag.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Dec 12, 2019 08:51 | | Subject: | Re: Red eyebrows for cty0164 | | Viewed: | 38 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, normann1974 writes:
| | I have found from with red eyebrows. Should I change the
minifig or create a new minifigure with red eyebrows? It's possible that
this set and minifig never came with brown eyebrows. The set was inventoried
before the red eyebrow version was identified (by me) a couple of years ago.
Please advise.
/Jan
|
I found a Youtube review, below is a screenshot and also a link queued to the
part shown below.
https://youtu.be/vt76JSneCOo?t=134 at 2:14.
It's hard to tell if they are red or light brown. The eyebrows definitely
have a reddish hue to them. My kids have this set, but the minifigure is mixed
in somewhere in the minifigure bin.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Aug 12, 2019 08:44 | | Subject: | Re: 4460 a/b: wrong height | | Viewed: | 40 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, WrefordBrown writes:
| | In Catalog, JusTiCe8 writes:
| | Hi,
Looks like this parts:
is taller than described as it is 4 studs high instead of 3 unless there is a
way to measure height I don't know.
Fortunately, there is no 3 studs high slope and I believe any MOCers using the
part just call it by its name and there would be no issue when building.
Strangely, part and all its variants looks like to be also 4 studs
high and not 3 (last pic clearly shows the same aspect ratio as 4460).
By the way 3684 is not marked for deletion yet.
Where was the issue ? "It's not you it's us" or just me ?
Thanks.
|
I used to think this until I found Tom Alphin's lego ruler and sorting tool:
http://tomalphin.com/2014/02/lego-ruler-and-sorting-tool.html
One stud is 8mm wide but a plate is 3.2mm high, therefore the size of a 1x1 brick
is 8mm x 8mm x 9.8mm. I have Tom's guide printed and laminated and reckon
that it has saved me a load of time while sorting!
|
Very handy. Thanks for sharing.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Aug 11, 2019 12:55 | | Subject: | Re: 4460 a/b: wrong height | | Viewed: | 41 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, Hygrotus writes:
| | In Catalog, JusTiCe8 writes:
| | Hi,
Looks like this parts:
is taller than described as it is 4 studs high instead of 3 unless there is a
way to measure height I don't know.
Fortunately, there is no 3 studs high slope and I believe any MOCers using the
part just call it by its name and there would be no issue when building.
Strangely, part and all its variants looks like to be also 4 studs
high and not 3 (last pic clearly shows the same aspect ratio as 4460).
By the way 3684 is not marked for deletion yet.
Where was the issue ? "It's not you it's us" or just me ?
Thanks.
|
https://www.bricklink.com/help.asp?helpID=261
|
This thread is a useful reminder that exemplifies that measurement values without
units creates confusion. I work as a scientist in my day life, and talking about
measurements without units causes same problems.
To the OP, the slope 3684 is 3 bricks tall, which is the same as 9 plates tall
(a brick is 3 plates tall), or 18 Lego units tall (a plate is 2 Lego units).
A good relation measurement is 2x2 brick width is same as 5 plates height, which
means that a 1x1 brick width is 2.5 plates height, therefore the 3684 slope which
is 3 bricks tall = 9 plates height = 4.8 stud widths (12/2.5=3.6). So as you
can see, it makes no sense in referring to this slope as 3.6 stud heights. It's
very confusing. That being said, having units in the dimensions handy, will prevent
further confusions.
Knowing dimensions is very practical when SNOT building, where the orientation
of bricks is placed sideways and combination of upright and sideway bricks.
Here is a useful converter: http://www.studs.sariel.pl
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Aug 11, 2019 12:33 | | Subject: | Re: Elements Exclusive to BaM | | Viewed: | 57 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, Hygrotus writes:
| | In Catalog, constructibles writes:
| | Just to add to the never-ending "identify this part" questions, it's now
been semi-officially confirmed that LEGO has created exclusive elements for the
BaM (Build a Minifgure) bins in LBR stores. I'm sure this will give more
people headaches for authenticating parts, since they will not appear in any
inventories. Looks interesting though, and I hope they keep introducing new
elements.
|
From month ago
https://www.promobricks.de/lego-store-neuheiten-minifigur-station/83292
Some of them are alrady in the catalog
|
Can we add years to these. Clearly we know what year these appeared first. Also
it would be nice to note somewhere (item description or sub-category) that these
are exclusive to the Build-A-Minifigure (BaM) station in LBR stores. It will
help to have this information in the future, and the years will make it useful
to place these into some chronological context.
Miro
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|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Aug 2, 2019 09:15 | | Subject: | Re: Either a bonafide brain-fart, or a seizure... | | Viewed: | 61 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, popsicle writes:
| | Wayne's post and others like it, https://www.bricklink.com/message.asp?ID=1150409
brings to mind an idea that briefly visited my headspace some time ago:
A type of reverse want list. That is, a way that sellers could peruse the current
want lists to specific buyer's needs, to then as a seller, proactively engage
members like Wayne with offers on items they have on their want list.
Kinda like amping-up the want list and selling process, by getting the sellers
more involved in increasing their sales by actually selling
It's just a rough draft of an idea. Limitations, restriction and other refinements
of the idea, expected.
But hey, BL shot-callers, it speaks directly to upping the sales numbers!
-Cory
|
Cory,
I have read through this thread and it appears that there is lack of transparency
for sellers on what parts buyers need, what parts sell well and so forth. Personally,
I have a lot of wanted lists that I have no intention on fulfilling. Many of
them are remnants of what I was interested in at a given moment and I personally
just have not gone to delete them for various reasons, mainly being a low priority.
This problem alone would create a lot of dead end work for the seller trying
to fulfill a wanted list that the buyer has no intention in fulfilling. There
are many other practical reasons for wanted lists that buyers use them for, to
serve as a reminder of parts to look for in stores when they need to pad their
cart to meet minimum, but not necessarily an critical item they need to buy.
Those could be just nice to have parts if an opportunity arrises, so as not to
pay additional shipping just for those part(s).
Having been a seller, I understand the frustration of what to stock up on, and
I know the main advice is quantity, variety, highly desirables and high turn
overs. The problem is that Bricklink attracts people from all sorts of corners
of the world with wide range of needs.
The other problem with Wanted lists and stores is that even though the Wanted
List search function looks for stores with say most unique lots or a combination
search, the buyer is still tasked with trying to find a combination of stores
with best value (cost of parts vs cost of shipping). BL used to find stores with
cheapest cost, but I believe that was removed soon after it was implemented,
as in a long term it was causing price erosion for sellers, which is a valid
concern.
All in all, it's a balancing act of sellers and buyers doing their part,
with the sellers obviously carrying the financial burden of cost of inventory,
time and labor. I appreciate all the hard work that goes into it. I have carried
the burden for about 2-3 years, and I got burned out.
I think seller's tools would be very welcome for sellers in understanding
what parts sell well in their store and what parts are up rising/falling in demand.
Obviously with such tools, it would create more fierce completion amongst sellers
to provide best selling inventor, which in turn would change the behavior of
buyers and ultimately the demand of parts. Essentially what Youtube is currently
doing by changing their algorithm, which is changing what people watch and changing
the game ever so frequently.
I no longer have much at stake in selling, but as an infrequent buyer, I still
use this site and change is needed to keep up with expectations of both buyers
and sellers.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | May 1, 2019 09:16 | | Subject: | Re: classic space minifig | | Viewed: | 62 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, narval writes:
| | hi
did i create it when i was a child ? or is it unlisted ?
|
Pretty sure you created it. Have not seen torso mismatched with arms and legs
in this Classic Space theme. They started doing that with Futuron later down
the line. Also yellow hands is another giveaway.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jan 24, 2019 15:35 | | Subject: | Re: Set weight variance | | Viewed: | 38 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, kuschelig writes:
| | Apologies in advance if this is the wrong forum to post this in. I did a search
for 'set weight' in the forums and couldn't find anything addressing
this question.
How are the weight of sets derived? Does a submitter weigh the sealed set on
a scale and enter weight or is it automatically calculated by the inventory submitted?
I've purchased sealed sets 2nd hand over the years and they never seem to
weigh what is listed on BL. I've read recent posts about sellers finding
sealed sets purchased in stores as "new" only to find their contents were replaced.
I decided to check several sealed sets in our inventory, some purchased at chain
stores, others purchased at LEGO stores or SAH, and NONE of them match what was
listed on BL. On smaller sets they have been as close as +/- 2 grams off, but
on mid-size sets (200-400 pieces), I've seen them off up to +/- 30 grams
This has happened with two different scales, so not sure it is an issue with
an inaccurate scale especially considering the sets we are weighing aren't
always lighter than what is listed on BL, but sometime higher too. I also listed
a boat weight that BL shows as 49.69 grams and our scale wavers between 49 &
50 grams, so it seems to be accurate.
Could the package weight be different depending on country? (an inventory is
submitted by someone in EU and their packaging weighs less??)
I want to list some of these 2nd hand sets that appear to be sealed as "new-sealed"
but don't feel comfortable at the moment given these discrepancies between
what we show as weight and what BL says is the weight.
|
Sets should be weighed when brand new and sealed. Besides the obvious like instructions,
packaging, sealed sets also contain spare parts, sticker sheets and just the
general variance in packaging material. Packaging material variance is greater
than the lego content, as the thickness of cardboard and plastic varies more
than injection molded lego.
I have weighed items for the Bricklink catalog, and I would enter the higher
weight if I saw variance in the weight. I also used digital scales with sensitivity
down to a single gram for larger items, and down to 0.01 grams for individual
lego parts.
If you sell second hand sets, you are welcome to weigh them and enter your weight
in your inventory for those items.
Ultimately, you will have to package the sets and hence the final weight will
increase for shipping anyway.
I would say the weight is close enough for most people. If there is a big weight
difference, it's possible that either Lego changed the packaging on the set
or changed the inventory to reflect necessary changes to set design in mid-production
of that set. It has happened in numerous occasions, and usually those sets will
be marked as -1, -2, etc in the catalog if someone catches it.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Nov 21, 2018 10:44 | | Subject: | Re: Projectile Launcher | | Viewed: | 30 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, Teup writes:
| | In Catalog, Miro78 writes:
| | In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Teup writes:
That was the point of the Projectile Launcher category: to group all of these
together in one place. However, I'd prefer to wait for the launch of the
parts reclassification project to move these.
The first part of that project will be creating precise written definitions for
every category of parts. Once written definitions exist, then people will have
less room to bring out the torches and pitchforks when parts start moving. 
Don't know if you noticed or not, but people sometimes want change and then
complain when it happens.
|
I hope the part reclassification also considers some of the modified bricks
parts reclassification, as it has become a dumping ground. I often find myself
clicking back and forth between modified bricks and curved slopes
categories as there are several bricks with slopes that to me would make more
sense to be in the curved slopes category. There are many others, and
I am sure everyone has their own reclassification wants.
The problem lies in how one chooses to classify parts, as it's in human nature
to label and bucket everything, but in reality there is a lot of overlap. Ultimately
whatever Bricklink chooses to do, there were be complaining. You just can't
please everyone, and I think the majority will be from sellers, as they will
feel more of the burden of rearranging their inventory, if they try to match
the Bricklink categories. As such it would be considerate if Bricklink would
communicate these changes effectively to ease the pain for those that would be
affected the most.
Miro
|
To me Brick,Modified vs Slope,Curved is absolutely fine. I never have any doubts
or troubles with it. Brick,Round is round in the XY dimension, Brick,Modified
is round in the Z dimension, and all curves that are not circular are Slopes.
I'm surprised it's Slopes vs Brick,Modified that troubles you and not
Brick,Modified vs Brick,Arch. If the curved Brick,Modified parts were moved elsewhere,
my first thought would be Brick,Round, definitely not slope.
|
Brick arch do not confuse me because arches have voids beneath them. Just speaking
from experience of having to click in 2 groups because some curved parts are
in bricks modified and others in curved slopes. That's just scratching the
surface. There are others as well in other categories, but as I mentioned earlier,
human like to classify things and each person classifies things based on some
definitions that do not always agree from person to person. It's a slippery
slope and ultimately whatever it becomes will be just a nuisance to some degree
to us all. Can't please everyone, and in grand scheme, it does not affect
my life all that much.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Nov 21, 2018 08:51 | | Subject: | Re: Projectile Launcher | | Viewed: | 36 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, Teup writes:
That was the point of the Projectile Launcher category: to group all of these
together in one place. However, I'd prefer to wait for the launch of the
parts reclassification project to move these.
The first part of that project will be creating precise written definitions for
every category of parts. Once written definitions exist, then people will have
less room to bring out the torches and pitchforks when parts start moving.
Don't know if you noticed or not, but people sometimes want change and then
complain when it happens.
|
I hope the part reclassification also considers some of the modified bricks
parts reclassification, as it has become a dumping ground. I often find myself
clicking back and forth between modified bricks and curved slopes
categories as there are several bricks with slopes that to me would make more
sense to be in the curved slopes category. There are many others, and
I am sure everyone has their own reclassification wants.
The problem lies in how one chooses to classify parts, as it's in human nature
to label and bucket everything, but in reality there is a lot of overlap. Ultimately
whatever Bricklink chooses to do, there were be complaining. You just can't
please everyone, and I think the majority will be from sellers, as they will
feel more of the burden of rearranging their inventory, if they try to match
the Bricklink categories. As such it would be considerate if Bricklink would
communicate these changes effectively to ease the pain for those that would be
affected the most.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 10, 2018 12:23 | | Subject: | Re: Are all of these pieces lime green? | | Viewed: | 32 times | | Topic: | Colors | |
| In Colors, pikachu3 writes:
| | In Colors, Rainey writes:
| | In Colors, axaday writes:
| | The darker ones here are what I am more used to seeing. These came from 3 of
a set and the inventory says lime. One set is very different, but is it a different
color officially?
|
Is Neon Green the answer to this color? The droid torso I sold is on wanted
lists in this color. The only weird thing about this color and Neon Orange,
is that their is no information as to where these colors originated, what sets
they are in, or the time they were released.
Rainey
|
Neon Green and Neon Orange were ONLY ever used in watch parts. Watch links, round
watch faces... very neon and glowy looking
|
Ryan,
According to your color chart (http://ryanhowerter.net/colors.html) it looks
like it could just be a production difference, as there were 3 shades of lime
14 years ago.
Medium Lime (1998-2005), Color ID : 115 (Lego), 76 (BL)
Light Lime (1998-2007), Color ID : 120 (Lego), 35 (BL)
Lime (1998-present), Color ID : 119 (Lego) , 34 (BL)
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jul 2, 2018 23:13 | | Subject: | Re: Picture Needed of Minifigure | | Viewed: | 47 times | | Topic: | Catalog | |
| In Catalog, 62Bricks writes:
| | In Catalog, StormChaser writes:
| | In Catalog, 62Bricks writes:
| | Here is a very nice photo.
|
Thanks, stranger! Your promptness and the quality of the photo are commendable.
I will submit the figure forthwith and update the inventory. I do appreciate
it.
I was just kidding about the stranger part, of course, since you're one of
only a handful of select VIP BrickLink members who have had the incomparable
honor of meeting me in person.
|
Happy to oblige, sir. I used my select VIP photshoot setup for this, consisting
of a piece of copy paper propped up on a shoebox, a large window, a cloudy day,
and my cellphone. Oh and a tape measure to hold the paper in place.
|
^I love a perfectly overcast day when I want to do some photography where I want
even all around light diffusion.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 18, 2018 15:45 | | Subject: | Re: Minibuilds | | Viewed: | 33 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Lauren_Luke writes:
| | | | Miro78:
I think the success of the minibuilds portion of the catalog would greatly hinge on an ease of browsing. ... The minibuilds catalog would greatly benefit if one could narrow down list of mini builds by narrowing down choices.
(example given)
|
Yes I agree, your example is spot-on.
| | Miro78:
This would clearly require a tag system for individual entries to allow for such narrowing down of options.
|
Yep, totally agree.
| | Miro78:
Obviously this can be implemented when the BL catalog system is updated. I think doing a pilot sub-catalog trial is still in everyone's best interest that would bring in a whole slew of new buyers.
|
Would the pilot trial still be within BL or a new external sister-site perhaps?
|
I think the pilot site needs to be incorporated along with the main site, so
as to gain as much exposure and assess demand and flush out errors and get feedback.
| | | | Miro78:
Initially it would be best to start with high profile minibuilds that buyers and sellers need to exist without having the inventory admins busy with minibuilds with low likely hood of being sold.
|
Which are the high profile minibuilds? I would say they are the ‘new-incomplete’
and ‘used-incomplete’ sets that are already in the BL catalog. How do we know
which minibuilds have a low likelihood of being sold? Experience shows that there
is always something you think would not sell that someone is eager to purchase.
|
I think focusing on some key high in demand mini builds like the character based
ones that have always been discussed in the catalog would be a good start. The
admins can create a minibuild request page where people can request specific
minibuilds and if they reach a certain threshold of votes/requests then only
then admins would add those in, at least at the beginning, so as to control the
amount of work that would be needed, as well gauging demand/supply for them to
gauge success of the program. Spending time on bunch of minibuilds that would
not generate sales would not be very informative on the success of such an undertaking.
Obviously the catalog of minibuilds would not be complete from the get-go, but
it would need to start somewhere. I think sellers would be interested in it,
as it would generate sales and buyers will spend less time hunting for parts
for popular minibuilds.
| | If the goal is to take pressure of the Inventory Administrators then which is
more time -consuming/time-efficient: a few large-part-count minibuilds; or many
small-part-count minibuilds; or batches of a set-theme; or batches of a minibuild
category?
| | Miro78:
As far as sticker sheet problem, I have not found a good solution. Perhaps there can be 2 options: Without stickers and with stickers applied. The latter being a touchy topic on its-own, but at least it gives sellers and buyers options.
|
I checked on TLG website and does not seem to be any way to purchase replacement
sticker sheets for a set. Do you know is TLG do this? Purchasing an extra sticker
sheet for each minibuild would be another option, but it would be an extra expense
for the seller. Otherwise the minibuild sellers could buy bulk sticker sheets
from the part-out sellers.
|
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 17, 2018 11:35 | | Subject: | Re: Minibuilds | | Viewed: | 37 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, axaday writes:
| | In Suggestions, Miro78 writes:
| | There are some obvious builds like the characters from Cars, brickbuilt figures
like Groot, the giant Antman and such, train cars, but then it it's not so
clear on the smaller builds that are not attached to the main set build. There
are lots of little minibuilds across various themes/subthemes and I am not sure
how they will be easily cataloged in what would require a whole new branch of
the catalog. Would they be classified under their themes and subthemes. How will
they be easily found. If I just want a brickbuilt trashcan, how will one know
what theme and subtheme to find it under. The character ones would be fairly
simple to find by name, but some accessory minibuilds would seem to lurk in the
shadows of the catalog, to be never found or browsed.
|
If I were the king, I think I would put them on a new tree and not go by themes.
Use categories like "Vehicle - Land", "Vehicle - Space", "Animal", "Furniture".
It would be a whole new way for customers to shop Bricklink and a whole new
area for sellers to specialize.
|
I think the success of the minibuilds portion of the catalog would greatly hinge
on an ease of browsing. Currently the catalog is not dynamic enough besides either
browsing and narrowing down branch by branch or by specific searches. The mini
builds catalog would greatly benefit if one could narrow down list of mini builds
by narrowing down choices. Here are some examples:
Say for example I want to build a Star Wars battle scene, but I lack enough ground
based vehicles for the Rebels side. So I would like to narrow down the list of
minibuilds available by narrowing down. So a logical progression would be something
like this:
Minibuilds Star Wars Vehicles Ground Vehicles Rebels
but if I didn't care if they were ground vehicles, but still be Rebels then
it would be
Minibuilds Star Wars Vehicles Rebels
You get the idea. This same logic would be used for finding vehicles for my town
layout
Clearly the BL catalog does not have a dynamic catalog to handle this at the
moment, without specific searches. This would clearly require a tag system for
individual entries to allow for such narrowing down of options.
Obviously this can be implemented when the BL catalog system is updated. I think
doing a pilot sub-catalog trial is still in everyone's best interest that
would bring in a whole slew of new buyers. Initially it would be best to start
with high profile minibuilds that buyers and sellers need to exist without having
the inventory admins busy with minibuilds with low likely hood of being sold.
As far as sticker sheet problem, I have not found a good solution. Perhaps there
can be 2 options: Without stickers and with stickers applied. The latter being
a touchy topic on its-own, but at least it gives sellers and buyers options.
Any thoughts?
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 16, 2018 13:02 | | Subject: | Re: Minibuilds | | Viewed: | 32 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:
| | In Suggestions, TallyToyBricks writes:
| | I'm not sure how you would handle selling new minibuilds with stickers and
instructions.
Do you cut the sticker sheets? Do you send the appropriate building pages from
the manual?
What would the buyer expect?
|
AFAICT, generally, each minibuild has its own instruction booklet.
Sticker sheets are more of a problem :/
|
I like the idea, but the problem seems to be in the details and how it can be
best handled, as has already been pointed out.
There are some obvious builds like the characters from Cars, brickbuilt figures
like Groot, the giant Antman and such, train cars, but then it it's not so
clear on the smaller builds that are not attached to the main set build. There
are lots of little minibuilds across various themes/subthemes and I am not sure
how they will be easily cataloged in what would require a whole new branch of
the catalog. Would they be classified under their themes and subthemes. How will
they be easily found. If I just want a brickbuilt trashcan, how will one know
what theme and subtheme to find it under. The character ones would be fairly
simple to find by name, but some accessory minibuilds would seem to lurk in the
shadows of the catalog, to be never found or browsed.
Additionally it would take a huge undertaking to re-catalog many of these. The
sticker sheets is one of the biggest issues that I can't figure out the best
way to handle the issue without making the minibuild seem incomplete if omitted,
but if the stickers are applied, then it would classify them as used. Cutting
instructions creates an additional chore for the seller, but mainly the quality
of the cut which could compromise the sticker just to name 1 of several concerns
with that alone. Some stickers have no space between them and cutting between
2 stickers would prove quite impossible without inflicting some damage.
Ultimately, people will probably still list sets as incomplete to gain better
visibility and to dump off the rest of the unwanted minibuilds in 1 sale as opposed
to various minibuilds.
As far as the catalog price averages issue, I think incomplete sets need to be
marked as incomplete and sale of those should not be listed or used for calculations
of averages. Perhaps that is already what is happening, I just wouldn't know.
Whatever Bricklink decides to do, should probably do a trial test with certain
figures and see how it shakes out, before they bite of more than they can chew.
Catalog and Inventory admins will have quite a work cut out for them.
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jan 20, 2018 10:04 | | Subject: | Re: Sellers who smoke should let buyers know | | Viewed: | 49 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, baroness1 writes:
| | In Suggestions, oracle271 writes:
| | I think it should be required that sellers who smoke must post a prominent note
in their store.
Or if sellers who do not smoke sell parts that smell of smoke, that should be
listed on the part.
Getting parts that smell of smoke requires a lot of work by the buyer to remove
the odor, and we should know what we are getting into before buying. Not to mention
that when a seller does not disclose that they are a smoker, they are basically
lying about the condition of the parts.
I am really tired of getting stinky parts.
Sure, some sellers might be tempted to lie about about it, but users would complain.
Then sellers who smoke and fail to disclose their smoking should be treated with
the warning/termination policy applied to buying/selling offences.
|
Another point of view.
I do not smoke, I received negative feedback for parts that smelled from smoke.
As it turns out the post office allows mail carriers to smoke in their vehicles.
I stopped mailing packages on the day that the mail carrier who smokes is on
duty. That solved the problem. I also changed my packaging from paper bubble
mailers to plastic bubble mailers. I haven't had a complaint since then.
Wrongfully accused and sad about it 
|
I recall you stating this in the forum in the past. That is unfortunate that
mail carriers are allowed to smoke in the vehicles in your area while being paid
to handle customer's goods. That is just inexcusable business practice/oversight.
I imagine it's hard to control for this behavior when there is no easy way
to monitor them when they are out there on their own. Additionally the package
passes through too many hands before reaching it's destination, so it would
impossible to pinpoint blame.
It's good you found a proactive solution to your problem as you can't
control what other people do.
When I used to sell parts, The parts were always double ziplock bagged. The smaller
zip bag for part sorting, and the larger zip bag to contain them all within the
package. Additionally I would bubble wrap them for extra cushioning before they
were put in a box or padded mailer envelope, which is plastic bubble lined on
the inside. The flap would get fully taped over for extra protection.
Tires are notorious for absorbing odors, as I have found out, when I purchased
some from a seller that must have stored them in a way that allowed them to absorb
smoke and/or perfume smells. The smell from them, takes forever to dissipate.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jan 20, 2018 09:44 | | Subject: | Re: Sellers who smoke should let buyers know | | Viewed: | 51 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Teup writes:
| | In Suggestions, WhiteHorseMatt writes:
| | In Suggestions, firelordi writes:
| | it is always in the eye of the beholder.
|
| | 3. non-smoking customers receive the goods and they notice immediately.
what is then ???
|
If you sell parts and they smell of smoke for whatever reason then it will be
a problem.
Even if you don't smoke near them , it is likely that they will get contaminated
to some degree.
Same with pet hair, although that is a different issue. I have cats, and while
they don't go into my office, I occasionally find hairs in my sorting cups
for example. Some people don't like, or are allergic, and I am aware that
I can't be absolutely certain that the odd hair won't end up in a jiffy
bag.
|
This is why I believe there is some threshold of reasonability. Every time you
open a bricklink order, you will smell another person's house. Some smell
more strongly than others. Sometimes you may find a hair or a fingerprint or
another hint of human existence. But this is just a reality. That's why I
raised the question how long the smoke smell really lasts. Because if
it's a significant amount of time, then yes, you can say it is part of the
part's condition. But if it's just a day or two, I would say that's
just part of life and doesn't need mentioning. Better to judge shops on more
meaningful factors in that case.
From what I remember, parts smelled of smoke when I unpacked them, but then quickly
smelled like coffee from me storing them in coffee cans, and then woodstain from
wooden boxes, then like lavender from washing... As far as I know parts change
smell quickly, although it has been a long time since I was an avid buyer on
Bricklink, so perhaps I forgot.
|
This is a recurring topic, and it would be nice if it was controlled professionally
by Bricklink instead of an interpretation by each store owner. Personally I hate
it when new bricks smell like smoke. I have experienced various odors (smoke
or strong perfume to mask the smoke odor, etc). If that is the case, then they
should be classified as used, because if they don't look, feel and smell
like new bricks fresh out of a LEGO box or Pick-A-Brick wall, then they are just
not new, regardless if they have been "clicked" with another brick (which happens
in the box and on the PAB wall anyway). I know not everyone will agree, but you
don't see LEGO factory or store employees smoking in their facilities/stores
for a reason.
I like the idea of how the other site (assuming BrickOwl) uses "Smoke Free" store
designation. I think Odor Free would be more inclusive of strong perfumes, but
it's a bit vague on what constitutes as "odor".
Miro
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| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Oct 24, 2017 08:41 | | Subject: | Re: Convert all units to Metric | | Viewed: | 40 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Nordbart writes:
| | In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:
| | In Suggestions, Brickler writes:
| | Hi,
I do prefer the metric system, hands down, but in the US we have standard measurement
system.
So all our weights and sizes for the mail are in Standard. Changing it make no
sense.
|
In the rest of the world we also have a standard and universal measurement system,
the metric system.
|
Sure. But some countries still use imperial units daily. Like the UK traffic
it's all miles and yards or weights I have no clue what a Stone is. Canadians
tend to use imperial units too. Since many US products end up there.
At least it's only two domintating systems afaik and not a babylonic mess
of different units.
A 3001 would be 18.8 x 9.4 x 5.6 millismoot. 
Nordbart
|
The true universal measurement system would be the Planck length. It is the shortest
sensible distance in the universe derived from 3 fundamental physical constants:
the speed of light in a vacuum, the Planck constant, and the gravitational constant
A 3001 would measure roughly 1.1632x10^33 x 5.8160x10^32 x 3.4649x10^32 in Planck
length units
This should make dimensions clear enough for any ETFOLs (Extra Terrestrial Fans
Of LEGO).
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jun 24, 2017 08:42 | | Subject: | Re: Electronic delivery need for instant checkout | | Viewed: | 35 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, paulvdb writes:
| | In Suggestions, M.Boss writes:
| | In Suggestions, Miro78 writes:
| | With instant checkout looming around the corner, I would like to have the option
for my buyers to be able to use the instant checkout option when purchasing my
electronically delivered custom model instructions.
However, at the moment, I cannot differentiate these electronic instructions
from actual paper instructions. I am not allowed to set the weight to zero grams
or selecting a checkbox that these are electronic. How will this be handled during
instant checkout with causing some sort of error?
Please allow for an option for sellers of custom instructions to be able to allow
instant checkout.
There are other sellers who use Bricklink for selling these and would benefit
from this implementation. It would also cause less issues and confusion if this
is properly handled. Lastly, this will draw more sellers of custom instructions
to sell through Bricklink instead of other venues.
Thank you for the consideration.
Miro
|
I went into the preview and made a shipping method with no cost, and made a note
for people only buying digital instructions to use it. It would be better if
we could designate certain items to only use certain shipping methods. You can
go see what I did by going to my store in the preview site and buying instructions.
M.Boss
|
But that shipping method is not limited only to instructions. Buyers can also
select it if they buy items that need to be shipped. I just checked your store
and it was the first listed and automatically selected shipping method. So buyers
will easily accidentally select it if they're not paying attention and just
quickly want to check out.
|
Thank you both for the input. That is exactly the point of my suggestion. I feel
that BL team needs to create a an electronic shipping option that won't allow
physical items to be checked out. In addition, the electronic items need to be
differentiated from physical items, either via a new category or weight. Currently
weight of zero grams is not allowed.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jun 23, 2017 10:28 | | Subject: | Electronic delivery need for instant checkout | | Viewed: | 130 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | | Status: | Open | | Vote: | [Yes|No] | |
| With instant checkout looming around the corner, I would like to have the option
for my buyers to be able to use the instant checkout option when purchasing my
electronically delivered custom model instructions.
However, at the moment, I cannot differentiate these electronic instructions
from actual paper instructions. I am not allowed to set the weight to zero grams
or selecting a checkbox that these are electronic. How will this be handled during
instant checkout with causing some sort of error?
Please allow for an option for sellers of custom instructions to be able to allow
instant checkout.
There are other sellers who use Bricklink for selling these and would benefit
from this implementation. It would also cause less issues and confusion if this
is properly handled. Lastly, this will draw more sellers of custom instructions
to sell through Bricklink instead of other venues.
Thank you for the consideration.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Apr 27, 2017 11:13 | | Subject: | Re: First time International buyers. | | Viewed: | 32 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, Rakali writes:
| | In Suggestions, binksanator writes:
| | I have had to cancel quite a few new buyer International orders when they find
out the shipping costs. Is there a way to have them request ahead of tome so
I don't have so many cancelled orders?
|
A shipping table in your store terms might help. I wouldn't expect people
to go to USPS and enter details to figure out rough prices.
|
^As he said. Also add weight limits so that they know that they may be able to
add more items to the order without increasing shipping cost. I have a chart
that you may look at as an guideline, however I have not updated the prices since
the last time they went up. For me it's not much of an issue, I mostly sell
electronic instructions anyway.
Also it may be helpful to put the minimum international shipping price (~$13)
in the international shipping option name.
Unfortunately USPS has decided to do away with tiered shipping prices and instead
make everyone pay at an 8 oz price even if the package weighs far less than that
threshold.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Apr 6, 2017 08:42 | | Subject: | Re: New Design on My Orders page since today... | | Viewed: | 36 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, sheppy02 writes:
| | In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:
| | In Suggestions, C0lsanders_ writes:
| | Same, I see no difference. It's been this way as long I have been selling
(only a few years, but still).
Miles (C0lsanders_)
In Suggestions, Vegitt writes:
| | In Suggestions, MyTwoPence writes:
| | Not sure I am liking the new drop down boxes on the Orders page since this morning...
I use a MAC and I find the frames and text are a bit too thin... Can hardly see
them especially when viewing the screen at an angle. Its all a bit of a blur!!
(I always stand next to my partner when picking orders, so am looking from an
angle).
The colours do help a bit. That's a nice touch that has been there for a while
when viewed on the iPhone.
Maybe the text in Bold please!! (pending, paid, shipped, etc... )
... just MyTwoPence Bricks ...
|
Am I missing something? I don't see any change on the orders page, both placed
and received look the same to me.
|
|
Maybe it because it's on a MAC, rather than a PC?
I see no difference, other than the new catalogue display when looking at parts...
Paul
|
Hi Paul,
I use an iMac - still the same here!! I use Safari
maybe on a different internet browser on a Mac??
Alex
|
I too see no difference on my Mac (OS 10.10.5) using Safari browser (ver 10.0.1).
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 14, 2017 15:56 | | Subject: | Re: price overview when buying a wanted list | | Viewed: | 69 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, TokerSays writes:
| | If you had access to an average pricing tool when grocery shopping, would you
use it?
|
I was going to try to explain again why this feature is not a healthy and sustainable
feature, but I think some people just need to experience it firsthand. So my
suggestion to you is to try to run a profitable Bricklink store for a year or
two and get back to us on how you are doing.
Have a Good Day!
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Mar 14, 2017 14:29 | | Subject: | Re: price overview when buying a wanted list | | Viewed: | 62 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, TokerSays writes:
| | Why do you think Buyers
should not have easy access to the average price per piece? When I say easy
I mean access to the average price when purchasing a Wish List. I know I have
access if I go to each individual piece's page. But why should I as a Buyer
not have that access on a Wish List?
|
^For the same reason that when I go to the grocery store to purchase a shopping
cart full of groceries, the store does not have a label under every product item
that shows how it compares to their competition.
The tools are out there for you to look up each item and how it compares and
compare it to other fees. Heck, as others have mentioned, you can list a maximum
price for each item on the Wanted list to make sure you are not paying 500% for
a pearl gold tile.
Voting No, even though I buy rather than sell parts, but I want to make sure
that the stores that make up what we call Bricklink can stay viable for the foreseeable
future. Without stores, there is no Bricklink, just a catalogue.
Miro
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|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Feb 21, 2017 12:30 | | Subject: | Re: Analytics for sellers | | Viewed: | 71 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, 62Bricks writes:
| | This is a "roadmap" suggestion, as it would require a pretty big change in the
architecture of the site, but it would be very useful for sellers to have access
to tracking information for their shops.
Full analytics would tell sellers things like:
- How visitors got to their shop. For example, some people post sales in the
forums. Analytics would let you see how many people followed the forum link and
whether they bought something. That would give you an idea of how effective that
marketing activity is. Or if you link to your shop from other forums or social
media sites, you could follow that traffic.
- The search terms visitors used to find your shop.
- How people look around your shop. Do they search? Use a wanted list? Browse
by color?
- When your traffic is heaviest and lightest
- What country your visitors are from. Maybe you need to add a destination to
your shipping list or translate your shop terms into another language?
This is perhaps a long-term feature, but some of the things BL is working on
now could be designed with analytics in mind: payment processing, for example.
Analytics can give you lots of "gee-whiz" information, but to be really useful
it has to answer one big question about each visitor: Did they buy anything?
As BL works on its new automated checkout and payment system, I would hope they
keep an eye on the future and make it possible one day for sellers to track what
marketing efforts are working.
|
Old suggestion thread, but still very relevant for sellers and quite probably
beneficial to buyers as sellers will be able to make necessary changes to attract
more buyers and meet their needs.
Voted yes on this, as many other websites offer analytics (YouTube, Flickr, WordPress
just to name a few).
I would particularly like to see stats on:
-Buyer source (Item name search, Wanted List search, Catalog Price Guide, External
web sites (with names/some stats) useful for those that advertise elsewhere
-Items/categories browsed stats
-Shopping carts filled/emptied stats
-Buyer browsing duration stats
-What item/reason brought buyer to store
I am sure there are plenty of other stats that others would find useful.
I don't know a thing on how easy/difficult it would be to implement any of
these stat tracking and reporting with the current or future BL infrastructure,
but at least I listed them for the developers to think what would need to be
done to allow for implementation.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Jun 14, 2016 09:47 | | Subject: | Re: Displaying all the colors for one part | | Viewed: | 15 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, jennnifer writes:
Thanks for finding it. It's a pretty handy tool indeed.
Miro
|
|
| Author: | Miro78 | | Posted: | Nov 18, 2015 09:20 | | Subject: | Re: Buyer status when recieving an order | | Viewed: | 20 times | | Topic: | Suggestions | |
| In Suggestions, 1974 writes:
| | Hi Robert
Yes, I did clearly not think this through :/
I understand what you mean, thanks
Silly suggestion is silly then, allthough I'm still annoyed by those old
orders in "shipping" status. I guess that is just it must be, sigh
Cheers,
Ole
In Suggestions, Rob_and_Shelagh writes:
| | Sorry Ole, I voted no as a seller.
I do not like the idea of putting something in the way of making orders, I would
like the opposite
That would mean a regular buyer has to wait for his order to arrive before making
another order? We've had over the years many buyers who've placed several
orders in a week.
I also don't want to burden buyers with having to do this, it is another
thing that you just don't have to do as a buyer on-line elsewhere... you
buy, pay, get stuff, that's it. Anything else is optional like FB, etc.
We have thousands of orders, many purged, where the status never got beyond shipped.
I personally have no problem with that.
Robert
|
|
Ole,
I see your point, but I also agree with Robert. This seems to only bug the seller.
Another way to look at it is if you haven't heard back from the buyer about
the order, then more than likely they received the order and were satisfied enough
to not be bothered with following up with you or the order status.
As others have said, we all get these, and I must confess that sometimes it takes
me a while to change the status to completed, but I change it to received as
soon as possible. Many times, I get orders and I don't get around to checking
the contents for days or weeks at a time, as I only take out what I need and
deal with the rest (filler items) at a later point. I know, my personal Lego
collection needs to be sorted, but I lack the space at the moment. I hope this
changes within the next year, but now it's not a high priority. Sorry, got
off the track.
Miro
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