Keith Browning Posted April 16, 2011 Share Posted April 16, 2011 I noticed in the past year that a representative from Ford Motor Company is actively participating in public forums like The Diesel Stop for example. Look for user FordCustomerService and observe. It is no secret that Ford has monitored websites and forums for a long time... yes, even this website. I just think it is odd that after all this time of ignoring consumers and even techs in public venues this is happening and it always starts with a canned response. Maybe it will do some good? It has been my observation that Customer Service can do little more than smooth over a consumer that has a problem, usually self inflicted. Occasionally it's because a dealer screwed up royally. I am not sure I have anywhere to go with this, just thought I would share my observation. My take on this is a position of indifference but I don't matter. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bruce Amacker Posted April 16, 2011 Share Posted April 16, 2011 It is no secret that Ford has monitored websites and forums for a long time... yes, even this website. And probably mine, too. My web guy used to have an IP adress tracker to see who visited my website and how many times. Most were once or twice, but there were a couple that were into the HUNDREDS of visits. Even I don't visit my website that much. It can only be FMC and IH keeping an eye on me....... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brad Clayton Posted April 16, 2011 Share Posted April 16, 2011 I think I saw one of them sneaky bastards looking thru my living room window the other night. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Matt Saunoras Posted April 16, 2011 Share Posted April 16, 2011 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jim Warman Posted April 17, 2011 Share Posted April 17, 2011 "I’m sorry to hear you’ve been experiencing this concern, and I would like to assist. Please message me with your VIN, approximate mileage, and dealer name and I will escalate this for you." This can be read so many different ways by different people. As the message stands, to some this indicates that Ford feels that dealer techs are inadequate and they will step in and "make things right". Requiring the dealer name... for a concern to get his far, one would expect that hot line has been already contacted. I initiate hotline contacts quite often when a fix is not easily performed. Building a paper trail can be an inportant consideration - if for no other reason than ensuring a warranty claim is paid. I get the feeling that, at some point in the process, Ford and the customer may come to some agreement that will have me do something I don't go along with and might even put me in a position where a claim might be denied (hotline can tell you what "they would do" but that doesn't mean warranty will pay for it). I'm hoping for the best but expecting the worst... Is this an honest attempt at customer rapport? Or is this a cheap way to spin doctor some shit? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JSHTech Posted April 17, 2011 Share Posted April 17, 2011 It is no secret that Ford has monitored websites and forums for a long time... yes, even this website. This is something that's made me wonder. By monitoring, do you mean they probably visit the main site, read the tech articles and such? Or are they part of the forum. Because I know when I signed up, there was the notice about only dealer personnel being allowed onto the forums. And I had to put in my dealer name, number and maybe the P/A code too, I can't quite remember. I guess my question is are people other than dealer service department personnel, allowed on the forums? Or are there Ford reps just spooking around in the shadows reading all the topics and taking notes. Lol, I hope I haven't crossed any lines, it's just something I've been curious about. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Keith Browning Posted April 17, 2011 Author Share Posted April 17, 2011 Originally Posted By: Keith Browning It is no secret that Ford has monitored websites and forums for a long time... yes, even this website. This is something that's made me wonder. By monitoring, do you mean they probably visit the main site, read the tech articles and such? Or are they part of the forum. Because I know when I signed up, there was the notice about only dealer personnel being allowed onto the forums. And I had to put in my dealer name, number and maybe the P/A code too, I can't quite remember. I guess my question is are people other than dealer service department personnel, allowed on the forums? Or are there Ford reps just spooking around in the shadows reading all the topics and taking notes. Lol, I hope I haven't crossed any lines, it's just something I've been curious about. This is nothing to be worried about provided you have nothing to hide and I doubt anyone is actually followed or scrutinized. In such instances Ford Motor Company would be "crossing a line" regardless of the venue. Any information I request is to verify who you claim to be to base my decision on whether your registration is accepted or denied. The DTS website and forums are a unique technical resource and opportunity for everyone involved in repairing and servicing Ford trucks with diesel engines (Cat, Cummins, Ford or International design and manufacture) and is not a "pro" Ford nor a Ford "bashing" website. We are free to do to all of this without the annoyance of the general public, without corporate bias or censorship. I don't think that many members really understand the opportunity and value this website provides us. I will persevere. Now, let me refresh you with the first half of the registration form: THE DTS FORUMS ARE NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC While the web site is open to the general public, the forums are restricted to the use of Ford and International service technicians, dealer personnel and manufacturing employees array(Ford Motor Company or International and their suppliers) All Forum registrations are screened and are subject to approval before any account is active. You may be contacted for additional information or clarification. Yes, we are serious. If you cannot be responsible enough to provide this simple information that is required to validate who you are your registration cannot be verified and it will be declined. We don't think that it is too much to ask. To become a DTS member you must agree to perform four easy steps: I have filled out the registration form as completely as I can paying special attention to: [*]My first and last name because there is no reason to hide my identity [*]Entering a valid email address because if I don't I cannot be approved [*]My Occupation or job title knowing that I must comply with the statement above [*]The name of my dealership or company I work for [*]My work telephone number so that you can call me if needed to verify my registration [*]My geographic location indicating my location (state and country if not in the USA) And so forth and so on. I hope this clarifies things for you, let's get back to the topic... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JSHTech Posted April 19, 2011 Share Posted April 19, 2011 Yep, it does. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jim Warman Posted April 19, 2011 Share Posted April 19, 2011 Hey!!!! Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean I'm not being followed.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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