What do you all really think about the RallyPoint Web Site?

SSG John Dombrowski — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 18:43:53 -0500

Personally I like the site, I like how it is member oriented in the fact that you have to know some one or prove service to be included in a lot of the aspects of the site. I also like how it allows members of the military to re-connect or to exchange intel on jobs, homes, news, and military events. Plus it gives us a place where we can bash the VA and every one else understands ;)
However, the cons I see is navigation is brutal. Might as well give an LT a compass, map, and a grid. (no offense LT's, you heard it before) Also what are your concerns about security of the site? What if any pertinent information can you stand to have compromised... Specially with world events of today. How can your information on this site be used to compromise our our brothers and sisters down range. I'm sure that Rally Point takes every measure to secure the information here but even billion dollar corporations have information stolen. Wjat are your thoughts on these pros and cons?

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2015 6:59 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 18:59:47 -0500

SSG John Dombrowski, I agree with you about the pros of RallyPoint. It's clear that it is filling a void that has existed for quite some time. I guess the founders of RallyPoint saw that void and filled it. Kudos to them.

As for the navigation issues ... They're constantly working on improving the site and addressing issues such as navigation, making it easier to find things, topics, information. I've seen improvements in my short time here (about four months).

And regarding security ... You're right to be concerned about security, OPSEC, etc. We've all heard the FBI/DHS warning about identifying oneself as military or a veteran on social networking sites. I think the way RallyPoint forces people to verify their DoD affiliation before allowing them full access is a good step. No site is perfect - as you correctly point out - but I'm comfortable with the security of RallyPoint.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2015 7:09 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 19:09:47 -0500

I love the site, and the networking, and the forums. Very impressed by the vast majority of members, their comments, and the dialogue.

I think using the app is very tough and beta still (as can be expected) and think an option to delete comments should be available so we don't have to just see "comment withdrawn".

I also feel like if, as a member, you can access others profiles and tag them in posts, you should be able to message them without adding them as a contact. Lastly, the ability to block certain individuals would be nice.

All that being said, I think it is an exemplary way of filling a void, of engaging past, current, and future servicemembers, and I applaud the creators and administrators.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jan 10 at 2015 7:22 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 19:22:55 -0500

Well articulated comments from CPT Private RallyPoint Member and CW5 Private RallyPoint Member.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jan 10 at 2015 7:34 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 19:34:05 -0500

I have participated in may Internet discussion sites and can attest to the fact that there is more civility and common sense practiced on RallyPoint than on all the others combined. That says a lot about the RallyPoint audience.

RallyPoint itself? Meh. It's okay...

Response by John Russell made Jan 10 at 2015 9:54 PM

John Russell — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 21:54:02 -0500

I dont think you can get better knowledge and mentorship.
When you are stumped you can get answers on here w/o looking like a dummy to your COC. Great site. Glad its around.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2015 10:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 22:02:39 -0500

RallyPoint Rocks! In all honesty, I find that the people here, for the most part are both professional and personable.

Even though I'm retired, I try to maintain the respect that ALL members (Even 2LTs who won't Salute 1LTs - look it up for more info ;) ) deserve to be heard.

What I do not like, is when someone doesn't keep their mouth in check and turns insulting towards someone just because of a belief (I know - some would say I do that myself - but if you honestly try to talk with me, rather than spout propaganda at me, I'll at least listen to you, even if I vehemently disagree with a particular viewpoint - and I only get really insulting out side of joking with someone if they get insulting first).

I have only seen a few people try to pull rank, and I don't think they get that this site, even though it is a semi-public site, is still that. You can't pull rank on civilians (or retirees), and I will talk to everyone from E-1 to O-10.

I don't think that "Sir" should be at the start and/or end of every sentence either. Once, to show respect, fine. Calling someone by their rank is fine too, but don't try to bully others into your viewpoint by using your rank/former rank to earn compliance.

Understand that others will disagree - as long as they don't insult anyone, don't get your panties in a wad (so to speak).

As for security, this is probably one of the most secure "public" sites I've ever been on. That being said, I am VERY careful about what I post or say when it comes to OPSEC or unit info. I have frequently even gone back and reread what I was about to post just to make sure I didn't post anything that isn't generally considered public knowledge.

Last: I don't worry too much about anyone seeing my info here - if I did, I'd delete what I don't want people to know.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jan 10 at 2015 10:09 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 22:09:23 -0500

SSG John Dumbrowski, I enjoy the multitude of information and the personal comments. I do question why anyone in today's world would post their DOB anywhere on the 'net'.

Response by SGT Kevin Smith made Jan 10 at 2015 10:41 PM

SGT Kevin Smith — Sat, 10 Jan 2015 22:41:26 -0500

I like Rally point for the reasons already mentioned. The place where current and former Military members can connect. However there are things about this that makes me tempted to delete my profile. It is my opinion that some people think that holding opposite views of popular topics gets vilified. Last time I checked this was not endorsed by the DOD. So all thoughts should be respected.