Have you ever wondered why printed magazines are still in business? Well, after the train wreck I just went through trying to register for an online contest, I too cannot imagine. Well done Hearst Corporation for destroying my loyalty in your Popular Mechanics enterprise. Meh.

Let this post serve as a warning to users and marketers about to involve themselves with an online contest. While this amazing tactic can render you new friends, fans, and followers it can also create trolls, fiends and assassins. Hopefully this might shed a little light on the old adage of “keep it simple stupid.”

Clearly, this antiquated registration process has failed to meet expectations of users.

"Yes, but constructing of whole new customer service process would take countless of man-hours and untold funds Justice!"

What is the ultimate cost to your business and brand?