I think "shill" is a major upgrade from "rapist" .  Communication is beautiful

I probably shouldn't step into this because I'm not familiar with the situation here. However, FWIW while I first joined Harmony Central IKM used the forums for commercial purposes, which was (and remains) against the HC TOS. I informed them the forums were not a vehicle for commercial interests but they were welcome to answer questions and assist those using IK software. From then on, that's what they did. 
 
Zooming out from one particular instance, what I'm seeing as the bigger question is whether forum members want the software forum to be open to commercially oriented messages. I guess we need a poll for that 

craigb
Maybe he meant a different IKM? 
 
(Ok, ok, just kidding!   I did suggest having a completely separate forum just for vendors to pimp their wares.  That way, if a member doesn't want to see it, he just doesn't go into that forum!)

craig, i would be inclined to agree if vendors pimping their wares was an actual problem.  Let's face it.  other than the highly personal issue with some members with IKM (which manifests itself in threads that don't involve product promotion more than those that do), issues with vendors are few and far between.  Outside of the IKM issueI think it's safe to say the interaction is overwhelmingly positive.  even IKM's interaction with those who are not irreversibly angry at them is mostly non-eventful or pleasant.  A few come in and ask us to test out samples for Kontakt.  Some come in to let us know about their free online mags.  The guy who makes the synth tutorials pops in now and then. We even have authors participating in the main forums on a regular basis.  It makes no sense, IMHO, to make a modification based on an extremely isolated issue when the normal state of affairs does not warrant it.  A quick glance at the 1st ten pages of the software forum supports this.

I will not discuss polls
I will not discuss polls
I will not discuss polls
...

Anderton
I probably shouldn't step into this because I'm not familiar with the situation here. However, FWIW while I first joined Harmony Central IKM used the forums for commercial purposes, which was (and remains) against the HC TOS. I informed them the forums were not a vehicle for commercial interests but they were welcome to answer questions and assist those using IK software. From then on, that's what they did. 
 
Zooming out from one particular instance, what I'm seeing as the bigger question is whether forum members want the software forum to be open to commercially oriented messages. I guess we need a poll for that 

I started going to the software forum some time back. Larry was busy posting all sorts of things that at the time bothered me. Over time I have seen the value that the software forum has and its entirely due to Larry's efforts.
 
I go there at least once a day just to be informed of new products and updates. For me, as it is at present, it couldn't be better. 
 
Generally when something works well I would be very cautious in changing it. 

I too, like my daily visits to the software forum. I think Larry does a great job of keeping everyone informed of current events. It's his thing, in the same way CakeAlexS does his thing, when it comes to bug reports. I like all the forums.
 
My statements regarding vendors may be applied to all forums. If an outsider can advertise in the hopes of making money, why can't an insider? Is it okay for big companies to flog stuff but not okay for the average guy? IKM was simply something that came to mind. Probably because the threads they participate in are always memorable.

Just want to thank everyone for providing thoughtful feedback so far. 
 
As a token of appreciation, Willy and I would like to grant the gift of avatar uploads.
 
(apparently the solution was using pictures of bunnies sticking their tongues out)
 
In all seriousness, it's been helpful to read through everyone's reactions. Thanks for taking the time everyone!

Lets us know what you decide and when you will decide it. Thank you for allowing the forum to discuss this. 

Thanks Ryan

Ryan Munnis [Cakewalk]
 
As a token of appreciation, Willy and I would like to grant the gift of avatar uploads.

I know one person who'll be glad for this