Joe, I would have to wholeheartedly agree. If one looks at the very tough TER rating system, it can readily be seen that an "8" is a VERY GOOD rating score. I know a lot of guys (perhaps including myself) who (on occasion) can get carried away and rate higher when, perhaps, that might not totally be warranted under TER's rather harsh criteria. IMHO, a lot of guys don't even pay attention to what TER says the specific rating scores should mean. Also, if one bothers to read the "fine print", TER can actually ADJUST a review DOWNWARD because (in their judgment) the review is overly generous under these criteria. Does that actually happen? ABSOLUTELY! In fact, in two of my last 4 reviews, TER adjusted my performance score down one point, because they apparently felt that my reviews were giving out too many "10's", and hence that I was getting a bit too "carried away". A "10" afterall, IS supposed to mean "one in a lifetime". To me, that means in a SPECIFIC AREA, but to others (possibly including TER) that could mean a particular reviewer can only give that "10" score to only one or two providers EVER. Just a difference of opinion and interpretation, I guess (but the interpretation that MATTERS is TER's). Sheesh, one of my "10's", which TER adjusted downward, was on my ATF, "for Pete sakes"! Anyway, TER is the official "referee" in these matters, and like it or not, their ruling is FINAL, and cannot be appealed (not that I would want to "bog TER down" in such a matter, anyway).
My point to the provider is: the rating score you see very likely MAY be appropriate under TER's criteria. In addition, the possibility may exist that the guy actually GAVE you a HIGHER rating and TER adjusted it downward. If my experience be a guide, TER actually DOES what they "threaten" in the "fine print", if they (as the referee) judge it to be appropriate. In reality, that is probably a GOOD thing, because it helps to keep the ratings STANDARDIZED and truly MEANING something that hopefully can be understood by all.
-- Modified on 10/2/2004 11:47:12 PM
-- Modified on 10/2/2004 11:49:03 PM