Pretty much all the proof anyone should need to see positive ratings have a monetary impact.
I’ve had a number of models sit with no reviews while downloads and prints accrue. When someone finally gives a review (generally 5 stars) there’s a small windfall from the point bonus for good ratings.
There is definitely an impact especially when the download and print counts get high.
Some. For some model designers who get featured and who have good models. There’s many more out there who may have good models but either aren’t striking a chord or aren’t featured where they get exposure.
For most who are trying to build income from this it’s small potatoes and the work is done on the cheap for way below market value.
I’ve actually had a similar problem with Amazon reviews as “Sellers” can actually get you ‘Blackballed’ for an honest review (Apparently for life). So can we really trust reviews for things we want to BUY on Amazon?
However, on MakerWorld I’ve always taken a softer approach because the designers provide free models. So, if a model prints as advertised / pictured and works as promised, I give it 5 stars and usually a boost it I have boosts available (I hate to let boosts expire). I also include an image of the print … so Others know it was a real model and not AI slop. If it printed well but had a functional problem, I usually give it 5 stars but include a message to the designer about the difficulty I encountered.
Technically, the review ONLY asks about “Print Quality” and not functionality.
I despise AI Slop but rather than give a harsh review, I choose to go to the top right of the preview in MakerWorld and click either “Dislike this Model” or “Dislike this Designer”. I’ve been doing this with the creeps who continue to post AI Slop with their previews obscured with a series of house flies. They are either looking for likes or maybe just “views”.
On Amazon, I was more critical because I actually paid for the objects.
On MakerWorld, most of us are genuinely trying to invent and share for free. therefore I think legitimate designers deserve an “A” for effort along with some “Constructive” feedback when necessary.
I try to reinforce Positive behavior and Ignore bad behavior. (Excepting AI Slop)
I either give a 5 or I don’t review.
As for the AI Slop, I just select “Dislike Designer” from the preview thumbnail and never have to see them again..I try to not even give them the benefit of a “Viewed” credit.
Just a quick note, since this is actually off-topic: On Amazon, most reviews are bought anyway - completely legally through Amazon’s own system: Amazon Vine. Just Google it - if you put in the effort, you can even take part yourself. The Amazon rating system is completely worthless.