The thing that I'm still confused about is why they offered users the ability to "Request an icon", when really, users would be suggesting an icon. As a user, I

The thing that I'm still confused about is why they offered users the ability to "Request an icon", when really, users would be suggesting an icon. As a user, I expect "requests" to be answered. That is, I expect a special service, just for me, that I'll probably have to pay for unless the site is 100% free. Under that model of user expectations, I envision two groups of users: 1. the users who want to casually suggest an icon (and don't need it for anything critical or want to pay for it themselves, but who would happily use it if it became freely available) 2. the users who have a special request and would pay to have it done, regardless of how many other users want it. Group number 1 won't bother clicking on "Request an icon", because they figure that the button is for members of group number 2. Group number 1 won't see an option for them, which changes site perceptions, because group number 1 has an impression that the site is for paid requests. Group number 2 will click on "Request an icon", hoping to place an order, but will be disappointed and/or confused by what they see. Members of group number 2 might note that "Oh hey, it'd be nice if I could get this for free". But given that their need was sufficiently critical for them to want to pay commission, the option to submit an idea that may or may not be voted into existence at some unknown time won't seem promising enough for them to invest any more time in the matter.