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Donations won't work until we have a workable micropayment system. And I don't understand why we don't have it yet. The software is something to write in a week
by radu_floricica 18y ago
Donations won't work until we have a workable micropayment system. And I don't understand why we don't have it yet. The software is something to write in a weekend: deposit at most $50 in your account, pay by clicking a link and confirm by email. 1 cent per transaction should cover operating costs. Transfers from your account could cost a bit more, to cover bank fees and profit.
Why we don't have it yet? I'd guess regulations. The moment you write this software you're more or less a bank. If someone found a way to circumvent this would make the internet a huge favor.
- ryanwaggoner 18y agoWe do have this: TipJoy.
- teej 18y agoI don't understand your argument at all. I've made donations of thousands of dollars, tax deductible and not, online. Lowering the bar for payment can only go so far. It doesn't solve the issue that getting people to open their wallets (virtual or otherwise) is a pain in the ass. It's a psychological problem, one that most people solve by requiring payment upfront, instead of passively hinting to have money thrown their way. Personally, I hate the idea of "donations" in this sense. I would rather support your work/ideas/project by purchasing a product you profit from, than just hand you cash.
- adrianwaj 18y agoWow, thousands online, that's impressive. Did you feel it cheapened the site or software by asking for them? In waking life buskers, beggars, waiters and charities are the only entities that come straight to mind with regards to tips and donations.
- radu_floricica 18y agoExactly, it's a psychological problem. When opening your wallet means searching for your credit card number, you probably won't. When it means 2 clicks and 2 key presses, then maybe it's different.