Many players would LOVE to see a a situation where any given map may only show up one week a month.
From what we hear from HTC, they are working on it.
I've done marketing all my life, and have an idea that would give HTC many more NEW maps, and basically cost them jack...
A) Contest. Publish the requirements, specifications, and criteria in advance and give players a 2 to 3 month deadline. Allow players to submit a maximum of three maps. Provide a big enough "carrot" of 4 months free play for the grand prize winner, three months for second place, two months for third place, and runners up who get their maps used by HTC get one month free, and all get nice kudos on the AH website.
B) University Programmers. Pretty much the same "carrot" as above but turn the project over to a trusted university computer programming department. make sure your Director of Marketing throws in a pizza and beer party when he's making the pitch. Same prizes....AND....just maybe some gifted soul just might find a career with HTC after graduation!
This makes sure there are an influx of maps, yet, doesn't tie up HiTech's programmers to have to do it. The "carrots" are pretty inexpensive, considering.
With all the new members expected over the coming months, RETENTION will be the key to HTC's success....and fresh maps will be instrumental in getting those new arrivals to stay...and play.
HiTech--If I can help with the marketing, just drop me a line!
ROX
