Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton) - Thoughts on Renaming Forum to "Marriott/Ritz-Carlton Rewards"?

Since the Ritz-Carlton Rewards program is essentially the Marriott program with a different front-end (e.g., same account number), would it be beneficial to expand this forum to include RC? I would certainly benefit from reading members' RC reviews and experiences.

It seems simple and reasonable to me, but my perspective is often in the minority around here.

You might want to check out the http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/talkboard-topics/1345207-suggestion-rename-marriott-forum-include-ritz-carlton-updated-title.html thread in the TalkBoard Topics forum.

I searched before posting but only in this forum.

Based on the posts in other thread, TalkBoard approval is not required to modify the forum name. If that's true, let's do it.

I'd say it's a fine idea if the name was changed to something like "Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)" or "Marriott & Ritz-Carlton Rewards".

FWIW, I prefer a joint name rather than appending Ritz-Carlton to the existing title.

I like the idea of having RC in the forum name in some form to remove the ambiguity of whether RC stuff should go here or in the luxury hotel forum.

Talkboard Vice President hat on:

If you have input re: whether the forum name should take place, please post in the Talkboard forum. That's the forum Talkboard members check daily for input. Not all go to individual forums to track discussions.

BTW - Talkboard is usually the entity that decides forum names, forum creation, unless something is so minor or a no-brainer that the Community Director does it.

By coincidence, someone posted this morning in the Talkboard forum the suggestion of an entirely new Ritz Carlton forum. So obviously that could impact what is being suggested here.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/18819748-post1.html

Cheers.

BTW - Talkboard is usually the entity that decides forum names, forum creation, unless something is so minor or a no-brainer that the Community Director does it.Personally, I think this should be right up the Talkboard alley. But as noted in the thread I linked, there seems to be some confusion as to whether name changes should go before the Talkboard or through the forum's moderator and then directly to the Community Director.

It might be worth the Talkboard hashing out with the Community Director just what the correct protocol is. (And then letting us know of course. ;) )

Personally, I think this should be right up the Talkboard alley. But as noted in the thread you linked, there seems to be some confusion as to whether name changes should go before the Talkboard or through the forum's moderator and then directly to the Community Director.

It might be worth the Talkboard hashing out with the Community Director just what the correct protocol is. (And then letting us know of course. ;) )

Most of the time it's TB that votes on it. If you go back & look at TB voting decisions in the past (available in the TB forum), 99% of the time it's TB, even a few that were no-brainers.

Given some want to change the current forum name & one actually wants to create a separate Ritz forum, I'm going to say this will probably fall under TB vs. the Community Director.

Of course eliminating the 's' in Emirates airline(s) was minor enough the CD decided to go ahead & make the change ;) :p :D

So again, if people have input on both Ritz Carlton becoming a separate forum, or input on adding Ritz to Marriott forum name, or both, my recommendation is to post in TB forum in the pertinent threads.


You can post here of course & I'll keep an eye on this thread, but TB members usually check TB daily & not necessarily individual forums.

Cheers.

My hope is that we don't talk(board) this thing to death. I look forward to a quick decision by whomever.

FWIW, creating a separate RC forum seems like overkill, considering how few RC posts have been made in the existing hotel forums (fora).

FWIW, creating a separate RC forum seems like overkill, considering how few RC posts have been made in the existing hotel forums (fora).

TB VP Hat On:

Then I suggest you post that in the RC forum thread in TB forum. Since it's been brought up for TB's consideration (ie, a new forum), TB members will be reading input on that suggestion in that thread for pros/cons. The Community Director usually follows threads in TB pretty regularly as well.

Regular FT Hat On:

I don't have a problem w/ a change to the Marriott forum title, or an expansion of what it includes, which I posted previously in the Marriott title change thread in TB when it was brought up 6 weeks ago. A couple of the suggestions worked for me.

However, neither the thread in TB forum or this one has gotten a lot of response, which indicates either most don't care about the subject & think it's fine as is, or the new suggestion is fine as well. Of course w/o posting no one really knows which is accurate.

Cheers.

The words “Marriott” and “Rewards” being next to each other (as opposed to “Marriott & Ritz-Carlton Rewards”) would help with external searches.

Bumping this up, as there are still 2 things for consideration in TB.

Interestingly enough, not a lot of input in this forum or on the public TB forum, which makes me wonder if everyone is ok w/ the status quo.

One is to rename the forum to include Ritz, ala Marriott Rewards & Ritz Carlton Rewards (or something like that).

Another is to create a separate Ritz Carlton forum.

Thoughts on either? If so, it would help TB if you'd post in the TB threads which I linked to earlier in this thread.

Cheers.

I'd would make far more sense IMHO to effect a forum name change than create a wholly separate RC forum that would see a natural duplication on some topics with the MR forum.

That is merely MHO as input was sought. :)

Interestingly enough, not a lot of input in this forum or on the public TB forum, which makes me wonder if everyone is ok w/ the status quo.Good point. For me, I'm just apathetic. It doesn't matter one way or the other to me.

How about: "Marriott and Ritz Forum--and NO Plats & Golds do not get breakfast or lounge access on weekends unless the property is on Sharon's list"

Might eliminate 15-20% of new threads in the forum. :)

How about: "Marriott and Ritz Forum--and NO Plats & Golds do not get breakfast or lounge access on weekends unless the property is on Sharon's list".http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-laughing002.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php) Good one!

How about: "Marriott and Ritz Forum--and NO Plats & Golds do not get breakfast or lounge access on weekends unless the property is on Sharon's list"

Might eliminate 15-20% of new threads in the forum. :)

:D :D

But on-topic, I think (from the limited response so far) people are leaning more towards adding Ritz to the forum name rather than create a separate RC forum. We'll see how it goes though. I can see both sides.

Cheers.

:D :D

But on-topic, I think (from the limited response so far) people are leaning more towards adding Ritz to the forum name rather than create a separate RC forum. We'll see how it goes though. I can see both sides.

Cheers.

I like the combined.

It seems Marriott Rewards (including Ritz Carlton) is accurate and reflective of how trivial RC is in terms of the proportion of threads. The fact is this is a MARRIOTT place and a few random Ritz questions arise occasionally.

Bump.

Any passionate objections to adding "Ritz-Carlton" to the forum name?

Bump.

Any passionate objections to adding "Ritz-Carlton" to the forum name?

No objections. I just am fearful that a swarm of Ritz threads will take over the forum and I'll have to go searching for the Marriott threads. Before you know it, Marriott will be relegated to being talked about as frequently as AC Hotels!!! :D

In all seriousness, I'd say that the change is appropriate - I do prefer the nomenclature of "Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)"

Keep it separate. The programs are separate and the benefits of MR don't apply at RC. No lounge access, etc.

+1
Keep it separate. The programs are separate and the benefits of MR don't apply at RC.

The programs are separate and the benefits of MR don't apply at RC. No lounge access, etc.

The programs are effectively the same (e.g., account numbers, points, awards, administration). Other than lounge access, most of the benefits apply in some form.

-1
no disrepect, but you have no idea what you're talking about!
in addition to lounge access, there have been MegaBonuses wherein stays at RCs would not count towards these promos, there are a few RCs that DO NOT participate in MRs, only plats get full URG, no LNFs and, include all the comments posted at http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/marriott-rewards/1155535-so-much-any-recognition-ritz-carlton-5.html#post19174091

The programs are effectively the same (e.g., account numbers, points, awards, administration). Other than lounge access, most of the benefits apply in some form.

in addition to lounge access, there have been MegaBonuses wherein stays at RCs would not count towards these promos

Clearly stated in the terms of the promotion. Personally, I don't want RC to be promotion-intensive.

there are a few RCs that DO NOT participate in MRs

Three or four? Again, clearly indicated.

How many RC compared to ALL the other Marriott brands? I imagine a very small number. I can't imagine anybody really cares one way or the other. Really!?

there are a few RCs that DO NOT participate in MRs, only plats get full URG, no LNFs andExact same rules apply to RCR members. There are also a few Marriott (RI and MVC ) that do not participate in MR or RCR. The exclusions, earn rates, and burn rates are the same for members of either program. Yes the earn and burn rates vary by brand, but they are identical for members of either program. The stated benefits at different brands may differ (CY no breakkie or lounge, RC no suite or lounge, MR, JW, Ren non-resorts lounge, etc.), but the reward programs themselves are the same.

Even their mailing addresses are identical (phones are different):

For Marriott Rewards Members:

Marriott Rewards Customer Support
310 Bearcat Drive
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115-2544
(801) 468-4000
Fax: (801) 468-4033

For The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Members:

The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Guest Services
310 Bearcat Drive
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115-2544
(866) 922-6882
Fax: (801) 832-4575

Any passionate objections to adding "Ritz-Carlton" to the forum name?No objections to changing the forum name; however, I would suggest adding Ritz-Carlton Rewards to the name, especially in light of numerous recent posts that appear to confuse what benefits are provided by each hotel brand vs what benefits are provided to Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards members.

No objections to changing the forum name; however, I would suggest adding Ritz-Carlton Rewards to the name, especially in light of numerous recent posts that appear to confuse what benefits are provided by each hotel brand vs what benefits are provided to Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards members.

That makes sense to me.

Cheers.

Either way, whether you change the name or not, people are still going to post RC questions in the Marriott forum.

So, if the change is made, are people thinking this?

"Marriott Rewards & Ritz-Carlton Rewards"

Cheers.

So, if the change is made, are people thinking this?

"Marriott Rewards & Ritz-Carlton Rewards"



That seems redundant. Rewards is one program that varies (slightly) between the two brands.

I prefer my original suggestion, but if "Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)" gets this done, I'll live with it.

That seems redundant. Rewards is one program that varies (slightly) between the two brands.

I prefer my original suggestion, but if "Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)" gets this done, I'll live with it.

I could go either way & understand your reasoning. I think someone suggested having rewards for both due to search engine reasons.

Cheers.

This topic has come up a couple of times (both here and in the TB forum.) I don't know if we need to get the TB to vote on a possible name change or just ask the forum Moderator (Bruce) to recommend a name change to the CD.

In either case, first, it has to be decided on whether or not RC should be added to the forum name and what the name change should be. I would suggest we ask for a "Poll" thread to be started in this forum with the following:

Should Ritz Carlton Rewards be added to the forum title. Please choose from the following options:
Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)
Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Ritz-Carlton Rewards (i.e. split RC into its own separate forum from Marriott)
Marriott Rewards (i.e. no change)

We can let the Poll run for a couple of weeks and then see what, if any, support there is for change (and which suggestion has the support).

This topic has come up a couple of times (both here and in the TB forum.) I don't know if we need to get the TB to vote on a possible name change or just ask the forum Moderator (Bruce) to recommend a name change to the CD.

In either case, first, it has to be decided on whether or not RC should be added to the forum name and what the name change should be. I would suggest we ask for a "Poll" thread to be started in this forum with the following:

Should Ritz Carlton Rewards be added to the forum title. Please choose from the following options:
Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)
Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Ritz-Carlton Rewards (i.e. split RC into its own separate forum from Marriott)
Marriott Rewards (i.e. no change)

We can let the Poll run for a couple of weeks and then see what, if any, support there is for change (and which suggestion has the support).

A democratic approach - I think this is a good suggestion as well.

To avoid redundancy mentioned by dayone, then I would vote for Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Rewards.

This topic has come up a couple of times (both here and in the TB forum.) I don't know if we need to get the TB to vote on a possible name change or just ask the forum Moderator (Bruce) to recommend a name change to the CD.

We're sorting that out in private TB forum right now, as usually forum name changes are approved by TB. But there have been some instances where something is minor & the mod makes the request/the CD incorporates it.

I like the poll idea & the options listed ^

hhoope01, are you going w/ RC being a separate forum entirely as one of the options or RC being a sub-forum on Marriott?

Cheers.

This topic has come up a couple of times (both here and in the TB forum.) I don't know if we need to get the TB to vote on a possible name change or just ask the forum Moderator (Bruce) to recommend a name change to the CD.

In either case, first, it has to be decided on whether or not RC should be added to the forum name and what the name change should be. I would suggest we ask for a "Poll" thread to be started in this forum with the following:

Should Ritz Carlton Rewards be added to the forum title. Please choose from the following options:
Marriott Rewards (including Ritz-Carlton)
Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Marriott Rewards and Ritz-Carlton Rewards
Ritz-Carlton Rewards (i.e. split RC into its own separate forum from Marriott)
Marriott Rewards (i.e. no change)

We can let the Poll run for a couple of weeks and then see what, if any, support there is for change (and which suggestion has the support).I started a poll (stickied) that will run for 60 days. Let's see what develops with it.

Bruce
Moderator

hhoope01, are you going w/ RC being a separate forum entirely as one of the options or RC being a sub-forum on Marriott?One of the options would be for RC to have its own separate forum.

I didn't recommend an option for RC to be a subforum as I don't remember seeing any real support for that option. Though I'm sure it could be added if you feel it is worthy.

One of the options would be for RC to have its own separate forum.

I didn't recommend an option for RC to be a subforum as I don't remember seeing any real support for that option. Though I'm sure it could be added if you feel it is worthy.

Nah - I think there was more support (if we were going to go down that road) for a separate forum than a sub-forum. I'm fine w/ the poll as you set it up.

Cheers.

and so far the poll has had two (2) responders.........

Nah - I think there was more support (if we were going to go down that road) for a separate forum than a sub-forum. I'm fine w/ the poll as you set it up.

Cheers.

and so far the poll has had two (2) responders.........

Well duh. It was set up this aft & is going for 60 days.

Cheers.

so, if you and hhoope01 have an opinion, use Bruces new sticky and just VOTE instead of continuing to press on with your personal agendas here...........

Well duh. It was set up this aft & is going for 60 days. Cheers.

so, if you and hhoope01 have an opinion, use Bruces new sticky and just VOTE instead of continuing to press on with your personal agendas here...........

You commented that only 2 people had voted. I pointed out that it was only set up this aft & continues for 60 days, so it's not surprising that only 2 people have voted so far.

I literally don't get how you get my having a personal agenda from responding to your comment re: only 2 have voted. And I certainly don't get how hoope01 has one in setting up a poll that offers a variety of options that Marriott FTers can vote on is a personal agenda.

I actually think a poll w/ multiple options is a good way to go with regard to the issue, and it's often been done in other forums dealing with similar naming issues btw.

Cheers.

And the number of voters far exceeds the number posting responses. There is no need to say anything there (the poll thread). There is already another thread for that -- this one. All that you need to do there, if you like, is to vote.

Bruce
Moderator

+1

And the number of voters far exceeds the number posting responses. There is no need to say anything there (the poll thread). There is already another thread for that -- this one. All that you need to do there, if you like, is to vote.

Bruce
Moderator

+1

You kind of missed the point. Polls only have votes. Conversations take place in the thread ;)

Cheers.

I posted in the public TB forum both a link to the poll & also a link to this discussion thread.

Cheers.

I posted in the public TB forum both a link to the poll & also a link to this discussion thread.

Cheers.

Thanks.

forum name change >
please send a note to the forum mods and me. If they are in agreement, I am in agreement and will make the change.

forum description change >
I am the one who will implement it...I'm very much in favor of forum descriptions that guide members better as to where to post.

(not creation of new forum)

This has been discussed in the private TB forum, and the Community Director agreed w/ the following:

"In general, it is TB's role to bring up the subject, poll the members, discuss and vote internally and then present our results/recommendations to the Community Director. S/he then makes the ultimate decision. But there will always be exceptions to this especially if the changes are "minor"."

so there has been codification, and perhaps a change, thanks

Well, I foolishly thought that this change was "minor."

Well, I foolishly thought that this change was "minor."

Are you saying you have a problem w/ asking other FTers if they want to change the forum title & which option/name change they prefer? That's what the poll is for, and based on results, the change (if it's voted to change) would probably go through pretty easily.

If you're saying you wanted it changed & only to what you preferred as the new name, then that's more problematic.

Cheers

Are you saying you have a problem w/ asking other FTers if they want to change the forum title & which option/name change they prefer? That's what the poll is for, and based on results, the change (if it's voted to change) would probably go through pretty easily.

If you're saying you wanted it changed & only to what you preferred as the new name, then that's more problematic.

Cheers

I think dayone may have assumed that this change was minor in the sense that he/she believed that we could open a discussion, have a quick vote, and then make the change. Not that the TB had to get involved, which, per FT policy, seems to be the case.

in the case of luxury hotels forum description change, there was a vote conducted by mods

Are you saying you have a problem w/ asking other FTers if they want to change the forum title & which option/name change they prefer? That's what the poll is for, and based on results, the change (if it's voted to change) would probably go through pretty easily.

If you're saying you wanted it changed & only to what you preferred as the new name, then that's more problematic.

Cheers

I'm saying that I thought the change was cosmetic and I am surprised by the passionate opinions (and your post).

I'm saying that I thought the change was cosmetic and I am surprised by the passionate opinions (and your post).

If nothing else, FTers are passionate in their views! Given there are a # of passionate opinions, that probably lends credence to having the discussion/poll & that some don't regard it as just a cosmetic change.

I'm not personally opposed to the forum name being changed & have stated that as a regular FTer both in this thread & in the public TB thread.

Cheers.