Originally Posted by avidflyer
Based on the link the first reply pointed me to (thank you), as of 2004, the % of Diamond members was 2.5%.
That was before the "rolling tier" so I am guessing that will be way up in 2007. I really dis-like it when they dilute programs like that. "Double qualifing miles" on airlines effectively do the same thing. Its really a moving target to know that you are in the right program for your circumstance and I hope that I do not see less service if the number of Diamond members goes from 2.5% to 5% becasue of the new interpertation.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy for the folks who could not attain Diamond without the rolling tier program (lumpy travel plans) but for a true 100+ a night customer you want to keep the perks open to as limited a number as possible so it may mean moving to a new loyalty program (talk about an oxymoron
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Marriott also uses the rolling tier for elite qualification, although it's done "unofficially". Whether it's rolling tier or calendar year, you will still need the same #of nights/stays or $ within 12 months to qualify. I really don't see the # of elites increase drastically due to the rolling tier.