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Comic-Con International => SDCC Guests, Autographs, and Off-Site Events => Topic started by: marvelmorris on January 14, 2018, 07:41:02 AM

Title: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: marvelmorris on January 14, 2018, 07:41:02 AM
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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: alyssa on January 14, 2018, 08:43:44 AM
i keep having the feeling lines & wrist bands are a huge topic at cci -- It wouldn't surprise me if WB would be moving to an online format. [member=1060]DRWHO42[/member] thoughts?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Miclpea on January 14, 2018, 08:45:54 AM
Wouldn’t make life easier for everyone?


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: PlasticManJr on January 14, 2018, 08:48:50 AM
Personally, I hope it's true.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 14, 2018, 09:07:26 AM
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i keep having the feeling lines & wrist bands are a huge topic at cci -- It wouldn't surprise me if WB would be moving to an online format. [member=1060]DRWHO42[/member] thoughts?
First reaction - not a fan of online lotteries.

I will respond in more detail later because there is little to go on at this point.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 14, 2018, 10:25:12 AM
Here is my take. May look like a rant but they are just thoughts at this point.

First I would like to know more about the setup before I can really formulate an opinion but my gut reaction is not a good one. The WB people probably want to get some sleep themselves but they could easily shift the drawing to 8 or 9am. Marvel IMO should move their draws to Sails because everyone knows the unaddressed issues at their booth.

Will the lottery be a portion of the tickets or 100% of the allocation? If it is the entire allocation this will potentially shut out a lot of people who are not lucky. Personally I do not like online draws and probably never will.

I have my issues with NYCC because their lottery pages are laced with ads and they did this for ad revenue & click-throughs. They are for profit so while they are a business I simply do not agree with it.

We all know the demand for the chance to meet your favorite actor or director. The reward is a great one if you are lucky. With that said online lotteries expands the playing field to everyone in attendance and takes away the reward for the effort and time one invests to wait in line. This could also create a resale or “black market” if the winner is allowed to transfer. As I have witnessed myself some people try to sell their wristband - which I would never condone. There is also the people who may not be interested but say “hey why not” - on the flip side this takes away a chance or opportunity for a fan. If you are invested on the line there is a high degree of probability you are not there for “giggles” you have an objective.

Lines have become overwhelming at SDCC and there is no singular method to solve this issue.

Online lotteries drastically decreases success odds because now you are going against the other 100k plus attendees and your destiny is based on an algorithm - not your hand in a bag. We all know the draw is done in the AM and one cannot be on line for Hall H, BR20, and the WB line at the same time. This splitting of the crowd forces one to make a decision to invest their time. Online lotteries will now shift the demand to these other areas and probably will not solve the problem.

The plus side is that the line for WB would not stretch out down to the marina. But I say that in jest. CCI has not been forceful enough to create a “no line-up” zone around the convention center. If they did we would not have the line issues of today.

My solution is simple - no overnight lines. Everyone shows up at 6am. No 2 day camping for panels in H.

If someone from WB is reading this I would suggest they offer a “super band” which will grant you access to several signings. Tie it in to a charity where a small contribution to a worthy cause benefits.

Rant over - I will weigh in as official details are revealed.


Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mlgagne on January 14, 2018, 02:35:45 PM
I completely agree with you, [member=1060]DRWHO42[/member].

For one thing, I am not a fan of online lotteries, either. I always have more luck simply by investing my time waiting in line for the autograph drawings (or panels, etc) that I want to try for.

For another, I also feel that online lotteries will in no way help the line craziness; rather, they will just send everyone who may have otherwise been spending their time in the front line to another line instead. The only way that I could see them really solving the problem is by actually enforcing rules to the lines - i.e. no overnight camp outs, or perhaps making sure that the line area for the next day is completely clear until the same day's line has completely filtered through. There really is no reason to have more than one line per area going on at the same time (i.e. Hall H, front line, etc), so I think that would be a more helpful solution than an online lottery. If we add in extra line monitoring to make sure that there are fewer line cutters, etc, I think many of the problems would definitely be fixed.

Another idea I've had for a while now is that CCI should enforce a percentage policy when it comes to ADA - i.e. for every "x" number of general attendees who are let in to draw for autographs or for entry to a panel room (etc.), "x" number of ADA attendees are let in. It could be as simple as tracking all attendees in each of those lines using RFID. That way, the playing field would be fair for both the attendees who have waited overnight in line and for the ADA attendees who cannot wait in long lines. Again, I think that this would be much more helpful than switching to online lotteries because it would help to ensure that dedicated fans who are both ADA and who are non-ADA have a decent chance at being able to draw for autographs - and winning.

And finally, I think that all drawings should be moved to Sails. The congestion on the show floor becomes ridiculous (i.e. AMC booth) - not to mention the early access by vendors shutting a lot of others out (i.e. Marvel booth). Moving all the drawings to Sails - and perhaps scattering them at different times throughout the day - would, again, be another great alternative solution to evening the playing field.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on January 14, 2018, 02:37:35 PM
I can see the desire to eliminate the lines and issues that the autograph drawings cause. I have been leery of doing autograph lotteries at SDCC precisely because of the time commitment involved for a result that is not guaranteed. In comparison, lining up for Hall H, while a long process (for Friday and Saturday) is much closer to guaranteed. (I won't say 100% guaranteed, because we know what happened with the counterfeit wristbands last year.)

So I would be happy to have online lotteries, because they would give me a *chance* at the autograph drawings, where I had none before.

However, I can also see De Who's point about the crowds. If people aren't lining up for the Sails in the morning, they will probably be lining up for something else, and the other lines may all get significantly more crowded. If they do the same for exclusives, then the Sails line will be *really* short and again, those people will go somewhere else, making other lines longer.

Also, if they move to online lotteries for autographs, then will they do the same thing for Hall H? Hmmmm..... That's a whole 'nother can of worms.

At GenCon, every event is pre-ticketed (although people can line up for open spots at the con after the ticketed people go in). But there is a big lottery to process ticket requests in advance of the con. One bonus is that once you get your tickets, you KNOW what your schedule will be and there's no getting shut out of anything. But the negative is that you're not guaranteed to get tickets to the events you want if your place in the lottery is poor. I'm imagining having every big panel be pre-ticketed/lottery at SDCC and it isn't pretty. A LOT of people wouldn't get into any of the big panels and would be disappointed, and then instead of standing in lines, would be clogging other places (such as offsites?). And what kind of trading/black market system would crop up?

While this one thing doesn't bother me so much, I  can see it leading down a complicated path.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TardisMom on January 14, 2018, 03:14:07 PM
As [member=314]Transmute Jun[/member]  said, will they do the same thing for Hall H?  I wonder if this nugget of info is part of a much bigger plan?  After the fiasco last summer I have to think they are working on addressing the Hall H line issue(s).  Finally.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 14, 2018, 05:43:13 PM
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As [member=314]Transmute Jun[/member]  said, will they do the same thing for Hall H?  I wonder if this nugget of info is part of a much bigger plan?  After the fiasco last summer I have to think they are working on addressing the Hall H line issue(s).  Finally.
I do not touch or commit to Hall H b/c of my con objectives for autographs. I have come to terms with it and I never have an issue missing Hall H. If they employ a lottery for Hall H while I can certainly see the benefit in reducing the line commitment I can see many might not be as happy if that is their main focus and now they are faced with a lottery. Let’s say I enter into every drawing but I only really want one then that opportunity is taken away from someone else. That is my main problem.

I only go after the autographs I really want. I gave up any chance for WB last year on the Saturday so I could try for DC. While I did not win on my first attempt I got back on the end of the DC line to try again. My roommate wanted to WB that day for Ready Player One and won his draw. I was really happy for him. The example I am illustrating is that we had a target and worked for it.

Online lotteries takes the effort and desire away while at the same time it reduces the effort. Everyone eligible could and probably would put their chips in for everything.


Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 14, 2018, 07:32:59 PM
If they do this new process, i wonder when they will send emails or post a notice about it before the con comes around in july? that way u can adjust plans any to make sure to try for any and know u not gotta waste time in line at the con and can focus on something else while u roaming around and still enjoy the con the days u able to go and all.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on January 15, 2018, 07:23:45 AM
OH PLEASE OH PLEASE OH PLEASE make it an online lottery!
 Would make me a happy happy boy!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 15, 2018, 10:27:05 AM
Since i am one of many who volunteer as a way to get in and save at same time, i have learned from last year that i can make notes but know i not able to check panels i wanna do since not sure when i be doing job since gotta check in like a half before we lead to our job site or post at time so good to know they organized in that way. so wait in lines for me is one of those i dont know really till i try and think how bad i want something at time and all. i was lucky didnt have to wait in any or many depend on what i wanted at time. so i just be aware of any gems /swag i can get at time and by chance any left behind like last year cause i learn there is like so much swag given out inside and out of the con that u may not want all so u decide at time lol.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on January 15, 2018, 10:49:23 AM
I will agree that all autograph lines need to move to Sails. The lines on the show floor are ridiculous. If they move to online lotteries for autographs, expect Hall H lines to be even worse. I definitely don't think CCI wants the Hall H situation to get any worse and I'd say they probably more focused on how to fix that line than the autograph line. They did a good job last year of addressing how to get that autograph line into Sails in a more orderly fashion and avoid the disastrous stampedes of 2015. I'm not so sure the autograph lines in Sails are the problem that needs the most attention right now. I definitely think we will see some changes to the Hall H procedure though. It's just honestly gotten way out of control and CCI can't seem to hire a team that shows any consistency in how to police and run it.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: catvonawesome on January 15, 2018, 12:04:02 PM
I'm in agreement with the general consensus here too. The autograph (and exclusives) lines are an issue, but moving them all to sails could alleviate a lot of it.

I'm all for solving the Hall H problem first (now I have "How do you solve a problem like Hall H?" in my head).  The wristbands were a move in the right direction. I hate the camping out aspect. I mean, I had some fun the two times I did it, but I hate paying $300 a night for a room so that I can sleep outside and be exhausted for a day. I'd be happy if they kept working to solve that issue. I liked the past few years of getting wristbands for Hall H, getting some sleep and being back in the morning. That said, Hall H is basically permanently off my to do list because it isn't where I want to invest my time.

I also agree with [member=1060]DRWHO42[/member] about putting the work in. You decide what is your priority and go for it. Put the work in. He's right, if autographs were an online lotto and lot more people will put in for it because why not? Plus then they can hit up other lines rather than be in that line. Heck, I might even try for a few and I have never done the autograph stuff with the exception of tiny booths that required no line at all.

But mostly, its that Hall H clustermess that needs addressing the most.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on January 15, 2018, 02:28:48 PM
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OH PLEASE OH PLEASE OH PLEASE make it an online lottery!
 Would make me a happy happy boy!

I think an online lottery for WB and FOX would be the way to go.  By the time those lines were full last year, CCI had the task of moving all those people out of Sails and back to either Exhibit Hall or outside the building. So by 7am you already knew most of the autograph and exclusives drawings were completed anyway.  All that prep and volunteer resources for one hour? 

The Sails exclusives lines have decreased to Hasbro, Lego, and Funko. Hasbro eliminated one voucher day from three (Thurs, Friday, Sat) to two (Thurs and Friday) over the past few years.  Lego line doesn't have the draw of Funko's.  So basically, Saturday and Sunday have had less exclusive drawings than years past.  I don't see any advantage of decreasing the presence of the exclusive's drawings and increasing the demand for Sails autograph draws.

If CCI can eliminate all Sails drawings, that may not help solve the Hall H problems.  Most of the Hall H line management uses the security teams and not the volunteer pool.

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If they do this new process, i wonder when they will send emails or post a notice about it before the con comes around in july? that way u can adjust plans any to make sure to try for any and know u not gotta waste time in line at the con and can focus on something else while u roaming around and still enjoy the con the days u able to go and all.

Fox autographs seem to be available when they publish the guide, so at least by then!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Sakura17 on January 15, 2018, 04:36:24 PM
This will be my first time going to comic con. I am a fan with online lotteries for other events/conventions. This gives me the opportunity to do something else and not waste time standing in a line that I could be doing for something else. This also could be a way to help crowd control or prevent people from selling badges too. This is because if you win, I'm assuming it would link to your badge, so if they scan it they would be able to tell if you are able to enter that line.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 15, 2018, 06:25:56 PM
Seeing the line in back on both sides of walkway so traffic was still able to go through without hassles was crazy. then also saw some scttered i guess trash that was left behind or just dropped along the way so was kinda shocked how if u not try find a trash can close by which im sure u can ask anyone they can tell u where the cans are at really. there is so much staff or security around at con that im sure somebody can show u or suggest where to go so it not just left on ground for others gotta clean up after anyone lol. so i guess that was a rant lol , but yes if they made where ur badge had record of u got a ticket or slot to get autograph or into a panel that they can scan badge and it give some kinda clue of light or words on scanner they u allowed to go in at time.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: omraged9 on January 16, 2018, 12:20:05 AM
I have mixed feelings about the online lottery too. On one hand, I'm glad because I haven't been participating in the WB autograph lines wait in the pasts few years since I need my sleep and can't camp overnight and now with an online system, I have a minuscule chance now of getting an autograph ticket as opposed to zero. OTOH, clearly this system will be easily abused with non-fans jumping into the lottery to try to scalp the tickets, etc. I hope the WB will design a system where it won't be as easily abused and allow real fans of each show to have a higher chance of getting tickets. They can design the system in a way that, say, asks the TV show-related trivia questions or have the fans take pictures of their blu-ray copies of the show they want a ticket for in order to submit valid entries. Once the tickets are passed out online, they can have fans pick up the wristbands (and put them on) once they show valid ID so there's minimal chance of scalping.

I'm curious what do people here think of the Starz booth system? If you haven't gone through their booth before, what they do is make fans line up and go through their booth for a chance to get a ticket. They have tons of empty cards in the ticket bag so the chances of getting tickets are low but you don't need to camp out and you can go through their booth as many times as possible so if you are dedicated, you can have a higher chance to win. They also have tickets/vouchers for merchandise for the TV show shows they're promoting so you can win other stuff like t-shirts and bags even if you miss out on an autograph ticket.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 16, 2018, 04:20:20 AM
This whole line situation started when they shifted the drawings to occur in the early AM. When I first started going to the con in 2012 they offered drawings throughout the day 2-3 hours before the actual signing. This distributed the demand so there were nowhere near the length we now see. If WB decide to split the drawings to 2 or 3 drawings during the day I think this would alleviate the situation and also offer a fair shot to more people without having to move to an online lottery.

CCI has gone on record that they intentionally make their schedule to spread the demand and this forces us to make decisions. Getting in line for an autograph drawing is a choice and the attendee should decide to make that commitment.

WB could consider offering drawings during the day at specific times and therefore give everyone interested a shot.

While some people may favor online lotteries I suggest they reflect on their own top priority during SDCC when the demand for almost everything is multiplied by a factor of 100k then think what happens when that shifts to online and everyone with a badge can participate from home ‘just because’ or ‘hey I will try this out’. This dilutes the opportunity for others.

I liken it to badge sales and hotels - which lead people to work harder to get what they want.

I literally gave up hope with NYCC online lotteries because I struck out almost every single time since they started it. NYCC did fail in epic fashion for WB autographs a few years ago and this was down to poor planning and horrendous execution which lead to a stampede.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on January 16, 2018, 09:32:27 AM
How about a lottery to have a chance to wait in a line?
Similar process to how we get our CCI tickets including allowing two other people to join you...
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TardisMom on January 16, 2018, 10:05:15 AM
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How about a lottery to have a chance to wait in a line?
Similar process to how we get our CCI tickets including allowing two other people to join you...

This sounds like a nightmare, but actually makes a lot of sense!  People who aren't truly invested could win but then won't show up.  It would also decrease the number of entries.  Genius!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 16, 2018, 12:22:02 PM
Alot ideas on how to get rid of baddies who ruin for rest who really value a celeb who sign goodies and wont ebay it later by chance. i wonder how many peple in line just ebay anything they get after they wait so long to get then to ebay later for profit . but anotehr idea for lines can be like southwest does to board plane for anyone who has taken that airline for ride to any place know how they have everyone wait by an area or post as to what ticket says but not assign u a seat so u can choose where u wanna sit when u board and hope a god spot for the time u on plane. it have posts by letter a,b,c ,d and then the number beow so u cant jump line cause can check that u havent jumped ahead by those around u can show who is supposed to go and when . that maybe a crazy idea but it works i think.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on January 16, 2018, 01:55:31 PM
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Lego line doesn't have the draw of Funko's.
When was the last time you tried for a LEGO minifig?  That line typically stretches down the marina past the hotels alone!  WAY longer than any funko line I have ever seen....but probably because the funko line is sold out / capped much quicker.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on January 16, 2018, 02:39:16 PM
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When was the last time you tried for a LEGO minifig?  That line typically stretches down the marina past the hotels alone!  WAY longer than any funko line I have ever seen....but probably because the funko line is sold out / capped much quicker.

He's referring to the early morning Sails lines, which Lego has for their set they will be ticketing that day.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on January 16, 2018, 08:11:36 PM


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When was the last time you tried for a LEGO minifig?  That line typically stretches down the marina past the hotels alone!  WAY longer than any funko line I have ever seen....but probably because the funko line is sold out / capped much quicker.

I've participated (and failed) in the long, afternoon  Lego minifigure drawings  The 2016 Funko Conan pop drawings at the Hyatt weren't short lines, easy to do on first days, longest on the last day of the show (no Hall H lines).

I've done the WB autos in the past and won,  but found you only have a few hours notice before the signing.  Maybe online lotteries won't alleviate the lines in the morning and afternoon drawings, but any step up to plan your day helps.





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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TheNeck on January 16, 2018, 09:59:19 PM
i like the idea of an online lottery, but i know our chances of winning would be scarce compared to us lining up every night. it would definitely change our plans this year if they do it online.

even if the WB did an online lottery, the lines wouldn't be any noticeably shorter. people would just line up to do something else. at least that would be our plan of attack im sure.

me and my daughter always commit to doing WB autographs almost everyday each year at SDCC if we can. ever since our 1st SDCC in 2014, i have enjoyed getting autographs at SDCC, whether it be fox or wb, or any other autographs we can get.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 17, 2018, 11:30:57 AM
I can still remember when i use to go to con and it wrapped or trailed around the back just to get in lol, they had anyone who worked for them check the line and made sure u had a form to fill out as u waited to go in and get a badge made and made right there as u paid to get in for the day. not sure who remember how u had to write ur name on a certain sticker they used to add it to the badge they made so it wasnt typed as it is now. i so miss those days and i dont remember reading how people had to camp out for lines for just an autograph from stars or any exclusive lol. and there was no funko craziness either lol. i had chances to take pictures with stars or of them around fans and all. scored some cool stuff i still have and value today. able to tell a comic book maker i liked a certain character at his early stages where was no line lol so his wife at time , we just had ask for him and he was cool and still is for pics and a comic signed at time. but now he so popular his line is mile long or longer dpends on con or shops he does siginings at any. i know some dont mind wait in long lines if not care for anythng else much, but i try enjo the con and capture pics where i can cause i never know when i may or may not see what i saw again.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on January 18, 2018, 09:33:49 AM
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How about a lottery to have a chance to wait in a line?
Similar process to how we get our CCI tickets including allowing two other people to join you...
Yeah, like what Funko did for Preview Night.  Maybe they can do an online lotto the week before SDCCI (after CCI has released the panel schedule), and then only wrist-banded people can wait in line.  Maybe do it ala movie sneak preview pass distribution, where they overbook a little bit so that way you have to dedicate some time to guarantee a place in line?  That way it takes a lot of congestion from huge lines, lets people better plan their days/be able to see more of the Con, but might also slightly counter/preempt additional swells of lines elsewhere by still having line-ups (albeit significantly smaller) for autographs.
I personally think for all of the 'bonus' stuff of autographs and exclusives there should be an online lotto type of thing.  I won the Funko lotto a few years back for PN and got the wristband but still had to wait in quite a line to buy anything (and by the time I got through they didn't quite have everything I wanted).  It still rewarded the Funatics who got a wristband ASAP then lined up ASAP to get in.  I didn't want to commit all that time, got some of the stuff I really wanted, missed out on some stuff because the true Funatics beat me to it: something I was 100% fine with (not that my opinion matters, but just wanted to clarify I'm not bitter or upset at all with that process).  Something similar could work for any type of online lotto for exclusives or autographs.

I still think the panel stuff is MUCH trickier due to CCI's policy of not clearing the rooms after each panel (I would've been WAY pissed to have to choose between WB or Marvel, for example - as would anyone else who does Hall H).  I personally like the current system, though maybe the wristband thing could be more immediate (like a Disney fastpass) saving EVERYONE time (and also kind of screwing line-up groups to an extent) and space.  It would take way different logistics for returning the morning of panels, but smart minds can figure such things out using current space already utilized for, say, Hall H Saturday lines.

Obviously at this point we're talking 100% speculation so no use getting to upset (or excited).  I personally would love the autograph lotto because I stay the heck away from that mess because of insane lines.  For WB I wouldn't care for any autographs though so this wouldn't impact me.  I get the "I'd rather wait it out and win" than "I must take my chances with the lotto."  I felt the same when CCI went to the online system for pre-reg but I think the current internet sales work out MUCH better.  I kind of wish they would do some badge sales at local comic shops in SD to support the local businesses but I get the logistical nightmare that would entail.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 18, 2018, 10:30:20 AM
I can see how u go to get a funko u want , but then find out it gone because so many want it or they dont limit and an ebayer stockpiles all they can so those who really value having one and not resaleing miss out . and for a place to sale SDCC tickets or badges makes it too easy for them to be resold cause not sure how they can track if it resold for profit and those who really do wanna go get screwed over cause scalping and con owners cant block badge if not recorded that it been sent to whoever so they can block if find out it been on a site to be resold for profit.

i can rant and rave about stuff but that does not stick to the topic at hand, so i dont know how they gonna fix for not have a repeat of last year hassles any. but we know there always gonna be anyone who gonna find a way to by pass any system these days and they dont care who wins or  lose they only care about those they make bands for at time. im so glad i skip all that hassles, cause some day the cast for any movie or show will be in autograph or a booth area and not mind pay them for autograph and pic at time cause u didnt have to spend a day waiting in line all day when u can be roaming around and just check times to be at booth and ready ahead of time. i just remember how things use to be before this con got so massive or popular that anything is a miracle to get anything at time do to all the crazy traffic lol.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on January 18, 2018, 11:57:23 AM
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Yeah, like what Funko did for Preview Night.  Maybe they can do an online lotto the week before SDCCI (after CCI has released the panel schedule), and then only wrist-banded people can wait in line.  Maybe do it ala movie sneak preview pass distribution, where they overbook a little bit so that way you have to dedicate some time to guarantee a place in line? (Lots of control.. the amount of people that will wait in a line at any given time)

Yes and everything will of course be tie to your RFID!
Viola! Problem solved!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on January 18, 2018, 12:40:36 PM
What if there were a charge for entering the autograph lottery? For example, make a $10 donation to charity just to enter. I know I've seen charity raffles like this before. The $10 would not deter people who really wanted to autographs, but would cause people who are doing it 'just because they can' to think twice.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on January 18, 2018, 12:41:23 PM
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What if there were a charge for entering the autograph lottery? For example, make a $10 donation to charity just to enter. I know I've seen charity raffles like this before. The $10 would not deter people who really wanted to autographs, but would cause people who are doing it 'just because they can' to think twice.
No
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on January 18, 2018, 12:54:40 PM
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What if there were a charge for entering the autograph lottery? For example, make a $10 donation to charity just to enter. I know I've seen charity raffles like this before. The $10 would not deter people who really wanted to autographs, but would cause people who are doing it 'just because they can' to think twice.

It makes sense on a deterrence/crowd-limiting standpoint, but it just feels... wrong. I'd be incredibly mad if CCI required a charity donation to wait in the Hall H line, for comparison. (I don't do autograph lines.)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SwagCollector on January 18, 2018, 01:56:28 PM
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What if there were a charge for entering the autograph lottery? For example, make a $10 donation to charity just to enter. I know I've seen charity raffles like this before. The $10 would not deter people who really wanted to autographs, but would cause people who are doing it 'just because they can' to think twice.

I kinda like this idea... Additionally, maybe offer a consolation prize for those that don't win the autograph.
Also, only do the lottery for half or a third of the allotted autograph wristbands... That way, the die-hard fans still have a chance- if they're willing to put in the time.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on January 18, 2018, 02:51:30 PM
If they go the online lottery route, they might be doing this to stop the fake Ada people.
I hate the fake Ada but I hate the online lottery as well.
Why not make Hall H online lottery as well to clear up the people camping out etc
Not sure if there is space but WB should have chutes like Wondercon not just one line.
And as I've said multiple times one wristband per person per day for WB signings.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: tsnyder on January 18, 2018, 03:13:42 PM
I would love an online lottery for autographs.  But only because I am only slightly interested in them and would give it a shot to get something as I would never be willing to put in the time with existing process.  With that said I am a complete hypocrite because I am 1000% against lottery for Hall H.  I put in the time to guarantee I get in because that is my #1 priority for the con, don't want it to be random.  So overall if one type of lottery would lead to everything being a lottery I'm against.     
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on January 18, 2018, 03:23:43 PM
Exactly I would never in a million years camp out for Hall H but I would enter the lottery.
I like the free cast Autograph signings and met Spielberg last year at the WB Ready Player One signing.
If the thing I love goes to an online lottery then do the same for all the other things people line up for.

For the record I don't want online lotteries for SDCC.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SwagCollector on January 18, 2018, 04:01:05 PM
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Why not make Hall H online lottery as well to clear up the people camping out etc


My thought is, SDCC is too BIG...
As a result, lines (including camping-out) are needed for crowd control. SDCC probably depends on lines to help manage attendees... And they probably have limited interest in getting rid-of lines.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 18, 2018, 06:38:35 PM
From what i know and learned, SDCC has grown and has attracted alot different people as to why they go. Out of the 130k plus, u can put them in categories as to like  :

true fans, e-bay salers, autograph seekers who get for own want and not sale , then those who get and resale for gain or profit, cosplayers, gamers, collectors, those that just go for panels, those that try to check out everything if go all 4 or 5 days, and those that go for vacation and fun and by chance reunions with those who able to go every year.

maybe more categories but just from what i notice and can tell over time. i not against any of it just shows how the con has grown and why. i may have missed a category but just ones i can think of off hand and all.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 19, 2018, 05:45:52 AM
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What if there were a charge for entering the autograph lottery? For example, make a $10 donation to charity just to enter. I know I've seen charity raffles like this before. The $10 would not deter people who really wanted to autographs, but would cause people who are doing it 'just because they can' to think twice.
I agree. Added bonus is supporting a good cause or charity.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 19, 2018, 05:52:41 AM
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If they go the online lottery route, they might be doing this to stop the fake Ada people.
I hate the fake Ada but I hate the online lottery as well.
Why not make Hall H online lottery as well to clear up the people camping out etc
Not sure if there is space but WB should have chutes like Wondercon not just one line.
And as I've said multiple times one wristband per person per day for WB signings.
I would agree to a limit but I would say two. Anyone with four or five clearly have taken advantage.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 19, 2018, 09:53:30 AM
All the stuff i hear about hall h, i wonder if it has caused some or many too loose interest for all the pros and cons of the panels and all. years ago u was able to just walk in and get cozy to hear any news from panels of projects. but now u gotta wait in a long ass line and hope no on cuts in cause i dont think there is any line control now days. and if anyone does cut in that just takes away a chair from anyone who is devoted and chooses to skip anyhting else just to see a panel and loose a spot cause of line cutters or the whole fake band hassles of last year. i guess as time has changed there have been baddies who ruin for the rest cause they dont wanna play by rules and cut or fake things just to get in a panel that eventually is recorded some how and posted on youtube later.not sure if ballroom 20 is the same way, but guessing it getting there depends on what panels they got at anytime.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on January 19, 2018, 10:34:30 AM
An online lottery can help quantify interest.  Once the line gets dispersed, after all the WB ticket draws and wristbands, you don't know how many actualy were in the queue.     

I'm sure groups get in line (and online) sometimes to help the odds for a small number in their group.  That's viable since WB allowed you to give your winning wristband to someone else, they just have to be present at placement.  Not sure how they would limit that, if they haven't done so prior years.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 19, 2018, 12:54:26 PM
I dont do the lines out back but have roamed around and see it like mega lines for hall h or whatever else. not sure how they gonna fix things besides already giving traffic a free ride do to what happen last year with fake bands and all. this might sound extreme kinda but hope they block their id for ever attending again incase they try to cause hassles again in future. but guessing they always tweaking something to make things go better i hope ea year.  i get what i can at anytime and try by pass pay for anything i not really want bad cause never know when u get to do so again any year.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 19, 2018, 01:05:57 PM
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An online lottery can help quantify interest.  Once the line gets dispersed, after all the WB ticket draws and wristbands, you don't know how many actualy were in the queue.     

I'm sure groups get in line (and online) sometimes to help the odds for a small number in their group.  That's viable since WB allowed you to give your winning wristband to someone else, they just have to be present at placement.  Not sure how they would limit that, if they haven't done so prior years.


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IMO - for the reason I stated earlier online lotteries would not really help quantify the demographic as it would open up interest to everyone. The folks who choose to line up can be counted much easily by swiping their badge as they enter into the line. This is where the RFID chip technology can be leveraged.

On the Hall H front I think the debate of lotteries makes sense and I do see the similarity in agreement and disagreement in both situations.

You are the one the controls your destiny- not an algorithm.

The point I am trying to make with that statement is that we want the process that gives us the best odds. Time in line is your investment to make your SDCC experience the best it can be.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 19, 2018, 02:01:59 PM
I can see they using rfid badge as way to know who was already scanned ahead of time so any line cutters would give a notice of when or if it was ever scanned ahead of time. so they can make cutters go to end of line or have to wait for those who was scanned before they started letting anyone in at time. i can see those with scanner going down line and scan badge to rserve a spot ncase they gotta go restroom or anything, then they come back and give a green lite saying then was scanned ahead of time. then cutters get a red lite so they gotta wait as traffic rescan and get green like they have u do when u go in and out of con so they know u gota legit badge and all. cause i know for volunters or workers they have a scanner u use before u head out to work and know it goes green saying it working and not need replacement.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ThePuffyTaco on January 21, 2018, 06:36:54 PM


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Online lotteries drastically decreases success odds because now you are going against the other 100k plus attendees and your destiny is based on an algorithm - not your hand in a bag.

You have to get your hand in the bag and CCI poor job with line management the last years have shown an inability or unwillingness to improve that.

First CCI should actually use the RFiD tech as when I was in line for Funko we were led into the building (tapped), led through thr building to the back and exited down the stairs and then went into our respective lines. To get to all drawa you had to tap again to reach Sails - but when we headed outside we found a crap ton of people already inline who never lined up nor went through thr building. Security told us that "yeah people got through. We are aware of it and no more can get through'. But the Funko line was already massive and soon after all spots were taken.

When speaking to security they 1) did not clear out the back to make sure people didn't head into line who shouldn't be there. 2) Did not use the RFID tech to ensure that everyone coming up the stairs into Sails had the punches from the front and the exit - technically the only people outside of ADA that should be there. 3) proceeded to blame Funko and exclusive companies for the line cutters and not their inability to do their job.

Despite this - I think an online aystem is a wrong idea. The tools are there for a better system already they just need to use them. Getting competent people running the lines and using RFID properly would do wonders for line management.

Online will result in more people trying for things they aren't willing to invest time into - making it harder for folks who feel that whatever is their #1 draw of the show.

Also a charitable donation could price people out who scraped by to attend. Putting a paygate for free parts of the show is a no go IMO.

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on January 22, 2018, 09:00:16 AM
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You have to get your hand in the bag and CCI poor job with line management the last years have shown an inability or unwillingness to improve that.

First CCI should actually use the RFiD tech as when I was in line for Funko we were led into the building (tapped), led through thr building to the back and exited down the stairs and then went into our respective lines. To get to all drawa you had to tap again to reach Sails - but when we headed outside we found a crap ton of people already inline who never lined up nor went through thr building. Security told us that "yeah people got through. We are aware of it and no more can get through'. But the Funko line was already massive and soon after all spots were taken.

When speaking to security they 1) did not clear out the back to make sure people didn't head into line who shouldn't be there. 2) Did not use the RFID tech to ensure that everyone coming up the stairs into Sails had the punches from the front and the exit - technically the only people outside of ADA that should be there. 3) proceeded to blame Funko and exclusive companies for the line cutters and not their inability to do their job.

Despite this - I think an online aystem is a wrong idea. The tools are there for a better system already they just need to use them. Getting competent people running the lines and using RFID properly would do wonders for line management.

Online will result in more people trying for things they aren't willing to invest time into - making it harder for folks who feel that whatever is their #1 draw of the show.

Also a charitable donation could price people out who scraped by to attend. Putting a paygate for free parts of the show is a no go IMO.

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This I tend to agree with as far as overall line logistics.  I think SDCCI is continually striving to make the experience most beneficial and enjoyable for its attendees and it seems a lot of the issues with lines is because of lax/improperly trained independent contractors (non-CCI employed security). 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 22, 2018, 11:14:37 AM
I try think why funko line gets so long and guess it cause it part people who want for themselves and part resalers cause u go and see what got but u gotta think what to get as backup if certain ones are sold out cause resalers i guessing buy so many of the same figure thinking or knowing it gonna sale fast on ebay. i am glad i can read so much ahead of going so i know what to avoid since not big collector , but sux for those who dont resale but still cant get caus resalers haord any or all that otehrs might want who are still in line. im sure some wait in line so long and then get to front to find out certain ones they want are gone cause other buy to resale. how times have changed hmm.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on January 22, 2018, 12:21:12 PM
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You have to get your hand in the bag and CCI poor job with line management the last years have shown an inability or unwillingness to improve that.

First CCI should actually use the RFiD tech as when I was in line for Funko we were led into the building (tapped), led through thr building to the back and exited down the stairs and then went into our respective lines. To get to all drawa you had to tap again to reach Sails - but when we headed outside we found a crap ton of people already inline who never lined up nor went through thr building. Security told us that "yeah people got through. We are aware of it and no more can get through'. But the Funko line was already massive and soon after all spots were taken.

When speaking to security they 1) did not clear out the back to make sure people didn't head into line who shouldn't be there. 2) Did not use the RFID tech to ensure that everyone coming up the stairs into Sails had the punches from the front and the exit - technically the only people outside of ADA that should be there. 3) proceeded to blame Funko and exclusive companies for the line cutters and not their inability to do their job.

Despite this - I think an online aystem is a wrong idea. The tools are there for a better system already they just need to use them. Getting competent people running the lines and using RFID properly would do wonders for line management.

Online will result in more people trying for things they aren't willing to invest time into - making it harder for folks who feel that whatever is their #1 draw of the show.

Also a charitable donation could price people out who scraped by to attend. Putting a paygate for free parts of the show is a no go IMO.

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I hate to say this but I seriously think wristbands are needed for the front line to control the jumping in line at the back of Sails.

Yes people may not be pleased about that but the back of Sails has morphed into a potential problem area.

Make everyone go through the front and Sails before going to the back. Especially the  first 1-2k attendees.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Pyramid on January 22, 2018, 08:05:40 PM
Honestly, I am surprised this hasn't happened sooner.  In my eyes, it's an image thing.  SDCC doesn't want to be associated with being a Line Con.  Online lotteries get rid of them.  Sadly, that means less of a chance for people to get an autograph since the pool is increased.  Companies want their fans to have a positive experience and standing in line and waiting isn't a big plus.  Celebrity autographs are never a big draw for me.  Comic book artists on the other hand are and fortunately I have never had an issue that wasn't later resolved.  The Marvel booth is just a horde so I either wait till the artist has a panel or hit them up at the Artist Alley.  I just hope these companies don't do something like having people pay for more entries in an online lottery.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 23, 2018, 11:22:34 AM
Yea, years past it wasnt so hard to get any autograph from a star or comic maker. i guess the media hype was in early stages as well cause u was easy to get in to panels and not gotta waite time in line for hall h or whatever. i dnt freak out if not get anything signed cause if u check who gonna be at con and do a bee line to the person so to speak u can catch them early before the traffic has a clue who is there at time. most time i just roamed arounnd besides having notes of what i try do anyday. but if u know who is gonna be where and u have time to check things and get what u can then it time not wasted cause u was able to meet and greet a star or comic maker at time. last year i was kinda ready but scrambled to find comics i can get signed at time and it went ok but i know now to have any with u so not gotta track down any at time and can just go to booth and ask if can get a comic signed. but do be aware of signs for prices any so not shocked when asked for any money for a signature at time. i have read alot and know if u want a stack signed be ready to pay alot lol, so i just try have one and get signed for free by chance so not to waste time and act greedy of time any. but i know some do charge so be ready and think before u wait in line how bad u want anything signed at time so u not waste urs and their time any.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Volsspongebob on January 24, 2018, 12:48:55 PM
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I hate to say this but I seriously think wristbands are needed for the front line to control the jumping in line at the back of Sails.

Yes people may not be pleased about that but the back of Sails has morphed into a potential problem area.

Make everyone go through the front and Sails before going to the back. Especially the  first 1-2k attendees.

I don't think it is a potential problem. It is a problem.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 24, 2018, 01:32:51 PM
It will be a problem or a hassle untill they fix the hole that makes things right . has it been like this every year or was last year the first time anyone got busted for fake bands? and untill they find a foolproof solution then they need find way to stop the line cutters. they need to set a system to determine how many seats they got to fill and then scan every badge and once they hit the last open chair that includes handicap ones by chance as well then bands may get faked again later idk. they find ways to stop scalpers from getting and saleing badges, then they need a answer to block line cutters by have every one badge be scanned that reserves them a seat anytime and then poof there be like a line not as long i guess cause u cant enter unless they got a spot saved for u .
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: darlenealderson on January 24, 2018, 05:35:15 PM
I prefer Hall H over getting autographs because I have been unlucky when I tried for signings...including the 2015 Legendary booth fiasco where I was right by the elevators and somehow the line was capped by the time I got there. At least you know if you're getting in to Hall H. I personally think they should do a lottery for 2/3 of the signing tickets and let the other third go to people willing to camp. You could get in if you're devoted. But I also know that lotteries breed a black market. I went to SLCC when they had Chris Evans and people were selling their panel seat (won through a lottery) on craigslist/Facebook.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on January 24, 2018, 06:01:10 PM
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I prefer Hall H over getting autographs because I have been unlucky when I tried for signings...including the 2015 Legendary booth fiasco where I was right by the elevators and somehow the line was capped by the time I got there. At least you know if you're getting in to Hall H. I personally think they should do a lottery for 2/3 of the signing tickets and let the other third go to people willing to camp. You could get in if you're devoted. But I also know that lotteries breed a black market. I went to SLCC when they had Chris Evans and people were selling their panel seat (won through a lottery) on craigslist/Facebook.

Yea, i can see salers doing that about the sale of panel seats if they not id checked or checked in any way before the event to block anyone if gotta have it scanned to enter the panel. it show u who are the true fans and who are i guess just profiters who sale for hi price to bank on those who wanted to see it so bad at time. i have heard or read many times people act like they want any signed but then resale for profit, so it causes some or all stars or comic maker to charge for sigs sometimes do to what they learn over time. i for one value a sig cause never know when u get anything more signed later if at all. so i just try get one comic signed so not be charged alot if at all at time.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Jason on January 29, 2018, 08:45:57 AM
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If they go the online lottery route, they might be doing this to stop the fake Ada people.
I hate the fake Ada but I hate the online lottery as well.
Why not make Hall H online lottery as well to clear up the people camping out etc
Not sure if there is space but WB should have chutes like Wondercon not just one line.
And as I've said multiple times one wristband per person per day for WB signings.

They used to do the separate lines for different shows/movies thing and that ended a few years ago - I assume because people were upset they missed out completely if they didn't get to choose for the signing they picked.

As far as the fake ADA - last year was the first time I did ADA (because I'm an old man and I need a hip replacement). It was insane to see people running to lines once the door opened. But I was still not anywhere near the front of the WB line any of the three days I tried, so I don't know how much that is an issue for them. I think the people getting in through the back of the sails without any lining up is the real issue.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on January 29, 2018, 09:15:48 AM
As someone who uses ADA, the ‘fake ADA’ is more exaggerated online then at the actual show. I got shut out for almost all WB signings last year and tried everyday. I’m not saying people don’t take advantage of the ADA lines, but some people have internal issues. I can’t stand for several hours in the same spot, I have spinal issues, and I use a cane, but I can walk quickly and I have a long gait so I can move (more like power walk, but still).

I think that back stairway is is the problem and has been the problem for SEVERAL years!!

I’m not opposed to using an online lotto, but it will be exploited as well. NYCC tried that this year, but it was met with a ton of complaints!! ReedPop claimed they were only allowing registered users to enter, but I saw threads on Reddit of people just entering any email and taking advantage. You didn’t have to assign a badge until after you’d won. Trust me, no system that I’ve seen will truly even the playing field unless the con wants to invest a ton of time into it.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on February 28, 2018, 12:02:10 PM
DANG!  Could marvel's procedures at Wondercon be a sign of what is to come at SDCC:
Quote
Please note that the WonderCon online Exclusives Portal will launch on February 28th and at that time WonderCon Anaheim badge holders can log-in and create a list of exclusive signings they’d be interested in attending. On March 19th, WonderCon attendees will be selected at random and receive an email confirmation with more details.
Fingers crossed as I don't know anyone who has ever been able to land actual Marvel signing tickets.  Closest I have got was the Premier tickets to Captain America which had Chris Evans in the room (though no signing).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on February 28, 2018, 12:18:25 PM
I think on line lottery is going to happen because:
1. lines are getting longer
2. they start earlier ,  you will have to line up the day before  to get into line
3. when you have to waste a day to line up, thats bad
4.people are abusing ADA because its helps you get in faster
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on February 28, 2018, 12:25:58 PM
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I think on line lottery is going to happen because:
4.people are abusing ADA because its helps you get in faster
This slash dealers.
So many people causing lines to be capped before general attendees can even make it inside.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: marvelmorris on February 28, 2018, 12:39:25 PM
I still hope this isn't the way they go for SDCC, but if they do it means that I'll be either trading or buying the signings I want to attend before the con. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on February 28, 2018, 01:11:35 PM
I am open for anything they wanna try. I will go with the flow. I’d they don’t do a lotto, I’ll try my best to get in with camping and waiting. If they do a lotto I’ll certainly enter.

I do worry that everyone who is shouting lotto now will be very upset when they get picked for nothing! I had 8 people in my group for NYCC and there are about 20-30 options and I didn’t get picked for anything. I was lucky enough to have some people in my group get picked for a few panels, but no Lego or Funko or signings. Sooooo it’s all left to chance really.

Having said all that, this board is truly a wonderful place full of people helping people so I hope we can all pool our resources and help each other! Honestly, I’ve never been part of a friendlier message board than when I joined up here. I’ve been helped by several great members and I’ve in turn been able to help a bunch of people on here. I’m always humbled by the kindness of all you fellow members!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on February 28, 2018, 01:18:25 PM
Yeah I'm screaming Lotto. Yes I know the odds will be very low for many things (especially stuff like marvel signings and funko booth).
But guess what low odds are better than the 0 odds I had when ADA and booth vendors were cutting the line making it all but impossible for regular attendees to try for some stuff.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on February 28, 2018, 01:31:48 PM
Yea! At the end of the day, they are gonna do what they are gonna do and nothing we say or do ultimately means much! We all just roll with it and adapt to the new system! We can all help each other!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on February 28, 2018, 02:01:31 PM
i think it will let booths better use man power
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on February 28, 2018, 02:07:23 PM
As long as they do lottery for Hall H as well, then I suppose it's fair.
I have very little interest in sitting in Hall H all day and what leads up to getting in there in the first place, but I'd enter the lottery.
So those of you screaming for lotteries for the thing that I love then please keep screaming across the board to make it fair.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on February 28, 2018, 03:04:28 PM
A Hall H lottery would only work for the first panel, as they do not clear the rooms.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TheNeck on February 28, 2018, 03:06:39 PM
new exclusives lottery is live for wondercon now too. just log into your CCI account and there is a exclusives tab.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on February 28, 2018, 03:12:53 PM
It makes no sense for Wondercon. It was well organized with space to line up with the different chutes for each signing.
For SDCC I understand something has to be done, with the exhibitor dual badges for Marvel booth, fake Ada clogging up the real Ada lines and the marina sneak attacks.
I said on Twitter, that a very simple solution would be to give wristbands to everyone that enters via the everything else line through the front doors.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Devorah on February 28, 2018, 03:19:45 PM
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It makes no sense for Wondercon. It was well organized with space to line up with the different chutes for each signing.

They may be using it as a test run for SDCC.

Can someone with access to the exclusives lottery post screen shots of the process? Pretty please?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TheNeck on February 28, 2018, 03:20:29 PM
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They may be using it as a test run for SDCC.

Can someone with access to the exclusives lottery post screen shots of the process? Pretty please?
SDCCblog did this just now

http://sdccblog.com/2018/02/wondercon-moving-to-online-lottery-system-for-select-autographs-and-what-it-might-mean-for-san-diego-comic-con/
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on February 28, 2018, 03:22:15 PM
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They may be using it as a test run for SDCC.

Can someone with access to the exclusives lottery post screen shots of the process? Pretty please?

That's exactly what they are doing, I'm just frustrated that they are messing with a system at Wondercon that isn't broken.
Now I have to compete against nearly every badge holder instead of a few hundred or so.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: vegasndn on February 28, 2018, 03:37:27 PM
I’m all for doing this to be used at comic con, no more waiting/camping out overnight. We’ll be sleeping in bed I paid for heck maybe we don’t even need to get a hotel room downtown. What are odds to get a winning ticket at sdcc if they use a lotto. Say 200 tixs for each signing


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Kevin Rutan on February 28, 2018, 03:40:11 PM
Well at least it seams relatively easy to use and is tied to your badge. At fist glance it appears a little better implemented than what ReedPop is doing but we will have to see how things turn out. With the inability to transfer spots it does lead to the possibility of some of the slots not being used, which would be a shame.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on February 28, 2018, 03:50:13 PM
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I’m all for doing this to be used at comic con, no more waiting/camping out overnight. We’ll be sleeping in bed I paid for heck maybe we don’t even need to get a hotel room downtown. What are odds to get a winning ticket at sdcc if they use a lotto. Say 200 tixs for each signing


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Better odds than the ZERO I get now. Lined up for autographs once, and told myself never again.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on February 28, 2018, 04:36:25 PM
I personally am against it and hope they don't bring it in for SDCC.

A lot of this has already been mentioned, but my reasons against it:

1) If it is a lottery, so many more people will enter than are currently willing to line up, so it will significantly reduce the chances of hardcore fans who are willing to line up overnight.  Particularly if you can enter for every autograph signing - the attitude will be, "why not - may as well try for everything to increase my chances of getting something".  EG. at the moment, I NEVER try for the funko line because I know how insane it is, but if that went to a lottery, I would enter. 

2) Will people who win the lotteries actually show up if it is for a show they aren't really that interested in?  If people don't, it will mean either the signing finishes early and people who really wanted it and would have turned up have missed out, or they go to standby lines which would just be even worse.  Masses of people all trying to line up just in case there is some time at the end of the signing.
That's the same reason I don't think a Hall H lottery will work (another thing I don't attempt at the moment but would try for if it was a lottery system).  If you put 100% of hall H passes in a lottery, you are going to end up with bunches of empty seats, and if you then have a standby line, it kinda defeats the purpose of doing a lottery to get rid of the lines.  If you say do 50% of the tickets as a lottery, you are still going to have a mass line for the other 50% of the seats.

3) You eliminate a line for one thing, you just increase other lines.  You usually always camp for autos but know this year you don't have to?  Then maybe you'll camp for Hall H, or maybe you'll still camp for sails to try to get exclusives or the other signings that aren't lotteries etc.

I completely agree the current autograph line process needs work.  Last year I lined up on Friday at 2pm for the Saturday signings (i wasn't even go to try for justice league but really wanted Flash).  When I went down to the lines area, it seemed that some people had basically reserved spots by putting out sleeping bags etc but were no where to be seen.  That obviously shouldn't be allowed.  They need to control how many people 1 person can save a spot for.  Friday afternoon I was probably about the 30th person in line (but we were all spread out).  By the time Saturday morning came there were hundreds of people in front of me.  By the time we got to Sails the line was all the way down the stairs to the marina, so obviously the 'back entry' issue has to be addressed as well.

Will be watching with interest to see what happens after Wondercon, but personally I'm not a fan... would prefer they fixed the line issues and then tried by luck with a few thousand other fans rather than the 10s and 10s of thousands who will enter the lottery.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TheNeck on February 28, 2018, 04:44:11 PM
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I personally am against it and hope they don't bring it in for SDCC.

A lot of this has already been mentioned, but my reasons against it:

1) If it is a lottery, so many more people will enter than are currently willing to line up, so it will significantly reduce the chances of hardcore fans who are willing to line up overnight.  Particularly if you can enter for every autograph signing - the attitude will be, "why not - may as well try for everything to increase my chances of getting something".  EG. at the moment, I NEVER try for the funko line because I know how insane it is, but if that went to a lottery, I would enter. 

2) Will people who win the lotteries actually show up if it is for a show they aren't really that interested in?  If people don't, it will mean either the signing finishes early and people who really wanted it and would have turned up have missed out, or they go to standby lines which would just be even worse.  Masses of people all trying to line up just in case there is some time at the end of the signing.
That's the same reason I don't think a Hall H lottery will work (another thing I don't attempt at the moment but would try for if it was a lottery system).  If you put 100% of hall H passes in a lottery, you are going to end up with bunches of empty seats, and if you then have a standby line, it kinda defeats the purpose of doing a lottery to get rid of the lines.  If you say do 50% of the tickets as a lottery, you are still going to have a mass line for the other 50% of the seats.

3) You eliminate a line for one thing, you just increase other lines.  You usually always camp for autos but know this year you don't have to?  Then maybe you'll camp for Hall H, or maybe you'll still camp for sails to try to get exclusives or the other signings that aren't lotteries etc.

I completely agree the current autograph line process needs work.  Last year I lined up on Friday at 2pm for the Saturday signings (i wasn't even go to try for justice league but really wanted Flash).  When I went down to the lines area, it seemed that some people had basically reserved spots by putting out sleeping bags etc but were no where to be seen.  That obviously shouldn't be allowed.  They need to control how many people 1 person can save a spot for.  Friday afternoon I was probably about the 30th person in line (but we were all spread out).  By the time Saturday morning came there were hundreds of people in front of me.  By the time we got to Sails the line was all the way down the stairs to the marina, so obviously the 'back entry' issue has to be addressed as well.

Will be watching with interest to see what happens after Wondercon, but personally I'm not a fan... would prefer they fixed the line issues and then tried by luck with a few thousand other fans rather than the 10s and 10s of thousands who will enter the lottery.

i totally agree, i am totally against it.

me and my daughter every year for the last 4 years have put in the time to get autographs. all nighters for my family has become the norm.

but in the end i think SDCC will eventually resort to this system they are testing for wondercon this year.  :( :( :( :( :( :( :(
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on February 28, 2018, 05:00:01 PM
Comic Con----->Line Con------>Lotto Con.. :P

"We will now be conducting an online lotto for access to the men's restroom on the second floor between the time period of 12pm to 1pm"
"Enter Now for a chance to enjoy yourself in one of two ways"
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on February 28, 2018, 05:02:41 PM
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Better odds than the ZERO I get now. Lined up for autographs once, and told myself never again.

I lined up overnight for Thursday, Friday and Saturday last year.  (Didn't bother for Sunday as WB only had two signings and one was supernatural, which I know would have had a crazy line).  I certainly missed out on what I really wanted most days, but still managed to always get something. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 28, 2018, 05:15:45 PM
I agree with pretty much everything that has been said here.

This WonderCon online lottery is likely a test run for SDCC. Far more people will enter the online lottery than would have waited out overnight, making it more difficult to get into these signings. And the people who would have been lining up will instead be elsewhere at the con, making everything much more crowded.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mlgagne on February 28, 2018, 05:45:26 PM
I am against online lotteries for this based on the reasons that others have stated above - but in the event that they decide to implement this for the signings at SDCC as well, I feel that they should at least do something like attaching little trivia questions to the entries for each TV show/film/etc. They don't have to be difficult questions - just things that true fans would know. At least that way, they could randomly select from those entries that got 100% on the trivia questions to help ensure that the winners are true fans of whatever TV show/film/etc. they are entering for. That'd probably deter some of the "excess" entries (so to speak), since I doubt that most people who aren't actually huge fans of something would take the time to look up the answers just to get a chance at a signing. At least that way, everyone would still have to put in a little effort to win.

As a side note, I really don't want them to do this for Hall H as well. The only way that I could see it being truly fair for the fans is if they held a lottery for each individual panel and then cleared out the room between the panels - but that process isn't realistic because they don't have the time or space to clear out 6,500+ people and bring in another 6,500+ people every hour. So they'd likely only be able to hold a lottery for the first panel of the day, which would almost definitely lead to a standby line that would defeat the purpose of the whole process anyways (as [member=3135]kat_sydney[/member] previously mentioned).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on February 28, 2018, 06:26:03 PM
what happens to children, i remember when me and my daughter line up she would get to pull a ticket
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 28, 2018, 06:29:59 PM
Only people 13 or up wi5 a paid badge can enter the WonderCon lottery... I am guessing it would be the same for SDCC if they implement it there.

For Hall H, they would not only need to implement a lottery, but a lottery for each ‘letter’. Otherwise people who enter the lottery will still be camping out overnight just to be up front.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on February 28, 2018, 07:33:04 PM
WonderCon will probably have a standby line for any available spots. They always have. People not lining up to draw at this con isn't going to change much. The draws happen before the floor is open and the show floor doesn't really have a line. It's way more chill. This is definitely a test. It saves them the trouble of having to set up and staff a queue hall as well.

I'm feeling chill about the developments. I'm ready to just roll with the changes whatever they may be. There are always a million other things for me to enjoy.

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Phylos on February 28, 2018, 07:37:27 PM
The biggest issue I see with the lottery is it is going to screw over all of the volunteers.... You can only sign up for an attempt for days you have badges for. Since results will be sent out 4 days before the con starts. No volunteer will be able to sign up for ANY of these signings.... not sure on the numbers for Wondercon, but if used at SDCC it will screw around 3000 people. Volunteers don't get their badges until the day before or same day. This lottery will be horrible for volunteers.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cire_raeb on February 28, 2018, 07:38:01 PM
Hope they take  into account that the folks not in the lines will have to go somewhere.  Exhibit hall and downtown are going to be packed.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on February 28, 2018, 08:50:44 PM
Not a fan of this development.

It was inevitable but it is due to ineffective line management by the organizers. I have a sour taste in my mouth but it is mainly due to the lack of effort it will now take to participate in something I that drew me to attend SDCC in the first place.

NYCC failed with WB autographs a few years back which resulted in a stampede. My NYCC experience is not as fun now with the lotteries.

CCI helped create the environment for the massive lines we see today when they allowed the WB and others to do the early morning drawings.

I actually liked drawings during the day. A choice is made to get on line and invest in the time.

SDCC provided me with the opportunity to snag some great autographs and now that door will probably close. It’s a shame.

Don’t intend to be mean but I am speaking from my perspective as an attendee and a fan.


Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on February 28, 2018, 08:58:05 PM
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Hope they take  into account that the folks not in the lines will have to go somewhere.  Exhibit hall and downtown are going to be packed.


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You understand that the line for autographs is very early in the morning and done before the exhibit hall opens. The only thing it could lead to is maybe more people running the Gaslamp at night instead of camping and even then not too much. They don't have a ratio for that line and you will see a single person holding spots for what ends up being 50 by the morning. People play pretty fast and loose with that line.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: omraged9 on February 28, 2018, 11:09:33 PM
What I'd like to see from the WB if they do implement this new lotto procedure for autographs this year is to limit it to one winning ticket for one show/movie per person and that's it. WB usually has autograph signings for 12-15 shows/movies every year. It'd be nice if they don't allow attendees to win for multiple signings. I feel this also would cut down on extraneous submissions for signings that people aren't truly interested in. For instance if you watch 5 WB shows but you submit for 10 signings for the heck of it, if you win a ticket for a show that you don't watch, you just ruined your chance of getting a ticket for a show you do watch. And maybe they can draw for the least popular signings first to help decrease the chances for people who do multiple submissions. I also like the idea of having people answers trivia questions before they make their submissions but I don't think the WB would bother.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 01, 2018, 04:21:59 AM
Here is an interesting suggestion. Make each autograph item personalized (naming a person not ‘to the greatest fan’). WB started limiting personalization and that adds to the resale market. I try to request personalizations anyway because I keep my items.

It’s only takes an additional few seconds for one to be added and therefore it will reduce the resalers from entering the pool - doesn’t eliminate but limits.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 01, 2018, 07:26:58 AM
Lets try a specific line, is any one opposed to a lottery for Marvel signings?
This is signings I would always kill for, but seems impossible due to it being on the floor and some how capped before fans get in.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on March 01, 2018, 08:19:13 AM
Woohoo going to put name down for the lotto for Dr.Who! Oh wait... Dr, Who? never watched the show.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: darlenealderson on March 01, 2018, 09:12:29 AM
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Lets try a specific line, is any one opposed to a lottery for Marvel signings?
This is signings I would always kill for, but seems impossible due to it being on the floor and some how capped before fans get in.

I would welcome a lottery for Marvel because it is always capped with exhibitors.

However, it would be nice for devoted fans to have a chance. I think they should have 75% of the wristbands allocated to lottery winners with an additional 25% allocated to those waiting in line. To make sure they're actually waiting in line, SDCC could distribute wristbands to the everything else line just like they do with Hall H. You must have a wristband to draw at Marvel, AMC, etc.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Sonic77 on March 01, 2018, 09:16:30 AM
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Lets try a specific line, is any one opposed to a lottery for Marvel signings?
This is signings I would always kill for, but seems impossible due to it being on the floor and some how capped before fans get in.

Totally agree on Marvel, was seeing exhibitors switching badges so they could get in line before the fans.  I like the online process for autos if they enable it for SDCC but could also see if backfire with more people applying for every auto lottery.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 01, 2018, 03:28:06 PM
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Here is an interesting suggestion. Make each autograph item personalized (naming a person not ‘to the greatest fan’). WB started limiting personalization and that adds to the resale market. I try to request personalizations anyway because I keep my items.

It’s only takes an additional few seconds for one to be added and therefore it will reduce the resalers from entering the pool - doesn’t eliminate but limits.

That is actually a good suggestion - assuming they just get one of the actors to personalise (and not all of them) it wouldn't take that much time.  (All I would ask is that they are careful in spelling names correctly!)

It's disgusting how many Justice League posters ended up on ebay and the price people were asking, but at least at the moment resellers have to queue up with everyone else (although I'm sure some of them are the ones abusing the line processes etc).  I think a lottery system where it takes all of 5 minutes to try for a chance at everything will increase the number of resellers because it now becomes an easy way to make money (rather than committing to lining up overnight), and you will have people winning signings for shows they aren't fans of. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 01, 2018, 03:34:18 PM
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You understand that the line for autographs is very early in the morning and done before the exhibit hall opens. The only thing it could lead to is maybe more people running the Gaslamp at night instead of camping and even then not too much. They don't have a ratio for that line and you will see a single person holding spots for what ends up being 50 by the morning. People play pretty fast and loose with that line.

But at the moment, the everything else line for sales covers funko / lego / hasbro / WB / Fox / DC / Ballroom 20 / Exhibit floor entry (not sure if I have missed anything).  From what I understand the Wondercon 'lotteries' are just for some of the signings.  Unless they make EVERYTHING a lottery, you will have the people who would have lined up for autographs lining up for other things in the everything else line or joining the Hall H line etc.  It might cut down the line a little - people who would only line up for signings but not for anything else, but I honestly would think the everything else line would remain basically the same length and you would just have more people trying for the 'non-lotteried lines' once you enter the sails pavillion. 

If SDCC does implement this for signings, I'm curious as to whether Funko will then be a lottery - I don't know if it is true, but I'm sure I have read on here that Funko wants to do a lottery and SDCC wouldn't let them.  If they are starting to let signings go to a lottery, I imagine Funko would put pressure on SDCC to let them do the same.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 01, 2018, 03:49:37 PM
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Lets try a specific line, is any one opposed to a lottery for Marvel signings?
This is signings I would always kill for, but seems impossible due to it being on the floor and some how capped before fans get in.

I wouldn't be opposed to a lottery for Marvel, I have never known of anyone who has even gotten to the booth before the line was capped to even try to draw a ticket.  (However, I'm aware this may come across as: "Well I'm not against a lottery for marvel because I personally haven't had luck with it before" ... so if anyone on a regular attendee ticket has gotten to draw for a marvel signing (even if you were unsuccessful) please chime in!

But they could also solve that problem by moving the marvel draws to the sails pavillion and doing them like WB / Fox etc (I don't think exhibitors get early entry there?)

I've also noticed that with WB, it seems there are very few losing tickets.  Maybe I have just been lucky, but usually for WB, I will miss the shows I was really hoping for because the wristbands have already gone, but I have always gotten a wristband for the show I ended up drawing for. (E.g. last year I was hoping for flash or supergirl, both were gone, but I still got Legends of Tomorrow).  I have never drawn a losing wristband for WB and the friends I have been with never have either.  Whereas for Fox, last year they had a flip a coin app on an ipad so it was a 50/50 chance.  It meant the Fox tickets didn't go as quickly, and if people had cut in line, they at least still then only had a 50% chance of getting a ticket and then would have to join the back of the line again.  Don't get me wrong, it is a horrible feeling lining up overnight or for hours to then flip a coin and miss out, but I feel that a lot more line cutting occurs for the WB line because if you do get near the front of the line, you are pretty much guaranteed a wristband.   
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 01, 2018, 05:17:01 PM
I have drawn my share of losing tickets for DC, Fox, WB, and AMC - I had mixed luck last year and missed out on JL.

I never tried Marvel but I know people who were on the floor within the first 30 and the line was capped at Marvel.

AMC is the hardest to draw a winner and when I finally won after a few years of trying I was not letting go of that opportunity. I had people offer to pay me for my ticket - that received a stern look and a NO.

I do like WB and their staff have been always friendly. They are supportive of the winners and the people who fail draws. Most recognize me because I am always on their line - probably because they have the same staff each year. I just think they could find a better option for the autograph seekers that is not diluted or abused by people who “allegedly” game the system.

LOT, Arrow, and Supernatural are on my list of targets but I am realistic in my choices and sometimes I only have enough time to hit one line before heading down to the Marina for the long wait for the next draw.

Here is a debatable option to reduce the dilution. The draws be tied to Hall H. This forces a choice the same way if there was a choice of sitting in line. You have to pick one.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: debster on March 01, 2018, 06:07:59 PM
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I wouldn't be opposed to a lottery for Marvel, I have never known of anyone who has even gotten to the booth before the line was capped to even try to draw a ticket.  (However, I'm aware this may come across as: "Well I'm not against a lottery for marvel because I personally haven't had luck with it before" ... so if anyone on a regular attendee ticket has gotten to draw for a marvel signing (even if you were unsuccessful) please chime in!

I've done Marvel as a regular attendee! I "walked quickly" to the booth when the floor opened, and the line wasn't capped yet. I didn't win, but my friend who was with me did. It wasn't for one of the big movie signings though - it was for Castle/Nathan Fillion (still cool!). I think there was a Castle related comic coming out so that's why he was signing. It was around 2012/2013.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: marvelmorris on March 01, 2018, 06:40:37 PM
If this is the way CCI is going to for SDCC, I suggest we set up a trading forum for the various online lotteries. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: LB42 on March 01, 2018, 07:34:26 PM
With a lottery, you can cap/allot a certain number of winners to each badge group (exhibitor/professional/attendee) and potentially solve a few problems, and create others.  CCI relies on lines for crowd management.  You can't fit 110K people into the exhibit hall. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 01, 2018, 09:22:11 PM
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With a lottery, you can cap/allot a certain number of winners to each badge group (exhibitor/professional/attendee) and potentially solve a few problems, and create others.  CCI relies on lines for crowd management.  You can't fit 110K people into the exhibit hall.
the drawings they are illuminating by having lotteries are all lines that are hours before the floor opens. This has no impact on people on the sales floor.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Lord Bacon on March 01, 2018, 10:50:01 PM
Lot's of great opinions in this thread!

I'm both for and against it. For a attendee like myself that only commit's one day/night to line up, I like the idea of entering multiple lotteries instead of waiting hours in a line that limits me to one opportunity. It would also be nice to know in advance if I won and not have to potentially waste precious hours during the con. On the other hand, winning a ticket by operating a mouse or clicking some buttons takes away from the experience of lining up, with friends and like-minded people, to have a chance to meet someone or participate in something. A virtual lottery system would also drastically decrease the opportunity for one to participate in any of these opportunities.

Bottom-line is that CCI is stuck between a rock and a hard place and something needs to be changed. I would not be opposed for a limited lottery system for 2018, but it should be treated as an trial run, rather than the new standard.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: friedminded on March 02, 2018, 12:24:28 AM
I'm always against lotteries. It hurts the people who only have one interest and are willing to spend all their resources (time) into making sure they get that one thing. It's true that nothing is guaranteed at SDCC, but at least if you get to a drawing early your odds of winning are higher. With online lotteries, your odds will tank dramatically.

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Here is an interesting suggestion. Make each autograph item personalized (naming a person not ‘to the greatest fan’). WB started limiting personalization and that adds to the resale market. I try to request personalizations anyway because I keep my items.

It’s only takes an additional few seconds for one to be added and therefore it will reduce the resalers from entering the pool - doesn’t eliminate but limits.

I love this idea a lot. To further reduce the time, organizers could hand out index cards to people in line and have everyone write their name on the index card while waiting. Then once you get up front, you just need to hand over the index card and the guest will know how to personalize. No need to spend additional time talking or spelling names.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: rushfanyyz on March 02, 2018, 07:16:54 AM
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the drawings they are illuminating by having lotteries are all lines that are hours before the floor opens. This has no impact on people on the sales floor.

But it does, and this is one of the reasons I'm against it.  The drawings themselves might be before the floor opens, but people line up for the floor (and ballroom 20 and other panels) about the same time.  So if now no one is in line for signing draws, those people are now lining up for the floor and panels, making them "competition" if you will for those things. (competition may not be the best word here, but I hope you understand what I mean) Your place in line can matter for the floor as booths have giveaways, exclusives, and other things that to be able to get you need to be there first thing. If you now have lots more people in front of you, your chances of getting what you want is lower than if more people were diverted to signings first.  Does it impact everything on the floor, no, but it does impact a good deal.  Same for panels, you decide to get in line for ballroom 20 on a popular day but now so does everyone else that would otherwise be in line for a signing.  If they did the signing ticket draw first, they would be behind you, but if there isn't a draw they are now there going for the same panel room as you immediately. I think it will make everything more crowded, and everyone more grumpy. I don't think this would impact Wondercon as much, my answer was more geared to if they implement this at SDCC.

I also have reasons to be against it that other have stated-including that it hurts people that wanted autographs as their priority and decided that's what they would put their time into, because now everyone can enter with little time commitment besides actually going to get the autograph. At least if resellers tried before, they had to put the time into it like everyone else. 

Whatever they choose to do, I will go with the flow and change my game plan, but my personal choice would be to not do online lottery and instead get a hold of the line situation in the back of the convention center and stop people from going up there.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 02, 2018, 11:11:03 AM
It good they post news of who be where by chance for any signings at sails, cause it one to get autograph and just pay a small fortune for pic signed and picture at time. last year they really had many but none i really wanted to meet for any reason at time. times have changed and know we may remember celebs of the past but overtime we move on to others for any reason. so hope they have anyone i really wanna see like in past had chance to meet and get pics and all at time. may have wait in a short line but better then wasting a whole day in line for anything u may not get at time, just gotta hope the guest are there every day by chance so can check and see before or after a job ea day. i for one not a flipper, that shows me i value meeting the guest at time and value and cherish what i was able to get at the time.

last year 2017 , i had chance meet Heather Lake a news reporter out front and say hi and got a pic with so that is something i enjoy and cherish cause never know when that be possible again. as i have read before that u never know when u mite run into a celeb untill it happens. and saw some last year but not alot autograph for one reason or another.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 02, 2018, 12:33:59 PM
they can add Funko to the list of online lotteries, that would make me happy, you could even add Hasbro and mattle
time to go big or go home
add all auto no both drawing on the floor, people always find a way to cheat, its human nature
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 02, 2018, 02:42:01 PM
if we look back at the past, when changes badge sales to on line only,  what I'm are the same reasons why they should not do that, this is a lotto, we accept  that, I think change upsets people, that's the problem
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on March 02, 2018, 06:10:38 PM
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Whatever they choose to do, I will go with the flow and change my game plan, but my personal choice would be to not do online lottery and instead get a hold of the line situation in the back of the convention center and stop people from going up there.

I'm guessing the redemption area (for winning wristbands or booth tickets) may remain in Sails in the am.  That outside line (where you exit and reenter) can be restricted only to those with the winning print outs. 

The problem lies with allowing printouts as the access to get in.  Anyone can photocopy a winning entry and Juniors may still need an adult to accompany them to the redemption area.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 02, 2018, 10:21:54 PM
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If this is the way CCI is going to for SDCC, I suggest we set up a trading forum for the various online lotteries.

Except the wristbands for Wondercon are non-transferable, and I would assume it would be the same for SDCC. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 03, 2018, 04:59:18 AM
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If this is the way CCI is going to for SDCC, I suggest we set up a trading forum for the various online lotteries.

With the RFID badges though, if you win the lottery, they can load it onto your badge to tap at the autograph booth, so you can’t transfer.  That’s how NYCC does it.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 03, 2018, 05:01:07 AM
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they can add Funko to the list of online lotteries, that would make me happy, you could even add Hasbro and mattle
time to go big or go home
add all auto no both drawing on the floor, people always find a way to cheat, its human nature

I thought I heard that Funko wanted to do an online lottery for all days, not just PN, and CCI said no.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: omraged9 on March 03, 2018, 11:15:00 PM
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With the RFID badges though, if you win the lottery, they can load it onto your badge to tap at the autograph booth, so you can’t transfer.  That’s how NYCC does it.

I think that's for the best. Otherwise you'll have people trying to sell their winning tickets. If the wining ticket is tied to your badge, hopefully that'll discourage non-fans from submitting for the signings they have no interest in.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on March 04, 2018, 09:19:39 AM
Yeah, either loading it to your badge or the printout has a barcode that needs to be scanned. The barcode thing wouldn't prevent people from selling winners, but it would prevent people from just printing a bunch and selling them b/c once the barcode is through once, the rest won't work. And if someone does print a bunch and blackmarket sell them, I don't care that the people buying them will get screwed when they show up and the barcode has already been used. Don't buy crap on the black market!

I'm guessing the WC will be in our badges since the whole thing is done through the Member ID account as are the badges. SDCC still doesn't have the Member ID account and badges connected b/c while you can see your badge for WC in your Member ID account, you can't see your badge for SDCC in there, which bugs me.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: alyssa on March 04, 2018, 09:28:47 AM
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If this is the way CCI is going to for SDCC, I suggest we set up a trading forum for the various online lotteries. 

as long as it's not prohibited by CCI nor done for profit- I don't object. However i know most if not all of our current staff is maxed out with irl projects & existing forum projects so we would be looking for someone to run it.

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Except the wristbands for Wondercon are non-transferable, and I would assume it would be the same for SDCC. 
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With the RFID badges though, if you win the lottery, they can load it onto your badge to tap at the autograph booth, so you can’t transfer.  That’s how NYCC does it.

well -- that's the last word on that topic
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on March 04, 2018, 10:05:49 AM
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Yeah, either loading it to your badge or the printout has a barcode that needs to be scanned. The barcode thing wouldn't prevent people from selling winners, but it would prevent people from just printing a bunch and selling them b/c once the barcode is through once, the rest won't work. And if someone does print a bunch and blackmarket sell them, I don't care that the people buying them will get screwed when they show up and the barcode has already been used. Don't buy crap on the black market!

I'm guessing the WC will be in our badges since the whole thing is done through the Member ID account as are the badges. SDCC still doesn't have the Member ID account and badges connected b/c while you can see your badge for WC in your Member ID account, you can't see your badge for SDCC in there, which bugs me.
Wondercon requires you go to your Member ID to confirm that you've won and get the respective signing's printout.  No mention of any RFID tapping for the wristbands.

Quote
After the random selection process is complete, a notification will be sent to the email address associated with your Comic-Con Member ID account.

At that time, you must log in to the Exclusives Portal using your Member ID and navigate to the "Confirmed" tab to see if you were selected to participate. If selected, you will be required to download and print your selection confirmation. Bring your printed selection confirmation and a valid photo ID onsite to claim your entrance into the exclusive signing.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: seancena on March 04, 2018, 11:49:22 AM
In the Wondercon signings FAQ, they mention all winners must bring their confirmation AND picture ID to Hall D. Whether or not they will actually check ID's remains to be seen. I can't imagine they would even have the time to check ID's if they implement an online lottery system for SDCC.

I did want to share my experience with the Wondercon exclusives portal. When I login and visit the portal, I do not see all of the signings that are available to submit a request for. I cannot see Cloak & Dagger and The 100 for sure. My friend can see those signings even though I don't see them anywhere. They are both Friday signings and I purchased a 3-day badge so not sure what happened.

If I use the drop down tab and go to "Freeform," I get a message saying I already requested for all Freeform signings even though I never requested for anything from Freeform.

If they are moving towards an online lottery for SDCC, these types of issues need to be taken care of. I now have 10 days hoping that Wondercon can resolve this issue for me before the signing deadline. For all I know, any signings that will be added soon may not show up in my portal. Can you imagine trying to get a hold of someone from SDCC to resolve a similar issue just weeks before the con?

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 04, 2018, 03:43:16 PM
Guessing that any hassles that occur or happen may affect some or many at the time. if anything send them an email about the problem and hope they get back to u before they start doing changes to sdcc if not already.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on March 05, 2018, 02:51:01 PM
“The Only Thing That Is Constant Is Change -”

― Heraclitus

Who is Heraclitus Again? Someone employed by Comic Con?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 06, 2018, 03:51:24 PM
Transmute Jun wrote a great article on the FoCC Blog about the WonderCon lotteries. I recommend giving it a read.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 06, 2018, 04:24:50 PM
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Transmute Jun wrote a great article on the FoCC Blog about the WonderCon lotteries. I recommend giving it a read.

Thanks for the plug, DrWho! ;) 

If anyone is interested, you can read the article here.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/06/online-lotteries-at-wondercon-and-sdcc/
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on March 06, 2018, 04:54:34 PM
Incredible article. Very well put!

Thanks for addressing what seems to me like every pro and con of these lottos. Some I had never thought of!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Miclpea on March 06, 2018, 05:11:23 PM
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Thanks for the plug, DrWho! ;) 

If anyone is interested, you can read the article here.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/06/online-lotteries-at-wondercon-and-sdcc/
It is a great article!


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 06, 2018, 07:11:27 PM
Yes, nice article about the lottery overall. sometimes at one con does not mean it will go right or fit right at another con. i guess it can be a test run or try one year to see how it goes, but then it can go back to how things was before if it shows or they hear or read how it was not a good way to fix it at sdcc even if it did ok at other cons. im glad and happy i got to do then what cant do now do to so much traffic and changes. but i do find ways to enjoy what i can do at con at anytime so going is not a total waste of time any day or year i am able to go and all. i find ways to save and budget, but still adjust to what swag i want most now compared to how things went last year. get what u can free and decide how bad u want something if gotta pay for anything else by chance.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Lord Bacon on March 08, 2018, 06:26:52 PM
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Yes, nice article about the lottery overall. sometimes at one con does not mean it will go right or fit right at another con. i guess it can be a test run or try one year to see how it goes, but then it can go back to how things was before...

Yea I agree. If they have success at Wondercon, then why not try it for SDCC 2018. I just hope it is an experiment, just for this year, rather than the standard moving forward.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on March 09, 2018, 09:12:11 AM
It's a good article.

I just want to comment on the issue addressed of online lotteries decreasing your odds of winning because more people will participate.  Surely, they will, but *how many* is the question.

I'm not interested in autographs.  Switching to an online system isn't going to entice me to do something I'm not interested in.  So, if you fear everything single attendee is going to now participate, I offer up myself an example of someone who won't.  My friend won't either.

The other thing is that if do get the autographs, it might prevent you from doing something else.  Is someone who spends the whole day in Hall H going to try for an autograph that coincides with it?  Probably not.

The "taking away one line, adds to the other lines" issue is interesting.  Sure, some may go to another line, but it, again probably won't be 100%.

(When did these lines exist anyway?  Were they first thing in the morning?)

I've been going to SDCC a long time.  The last few years, I decided to choose panels based on how little I'd have to stay in a line.  It's wonderful.  While I don't get into the big Hall H stuff, there's plenty of quality panels at SDCC.  Frankly, I think Hall H is over-rated, anyway. 

These days, my definition of a good con is my "in panel" vs. "on line" ratio has way more time inside the room than outside.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 09, 2018, 09:21:09 AM
Having experienced the lottery at NYCC, there are some additional reasons though that add to the pool of entrants.  Sure, maybe I have no interest in an autograph lottery, but my friend does, so I'll enter the lottery to help my friend out.  Sure, there are ways that they can prevent that by confirming ID/badges, but at NYCC, I think if you won the autograph lottery it was good for two people.  But the second issue, since these are done way in advance, is people who think "I'll go ahead and enter the lottery now and see if I win, and then just decide closer to the day what I want to do."  In those situations, someone not interested, or only minimally interested, ends up in the entrant pool, decreasing odds of people actually interested.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 09, 2018, 09:57:13 AM
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The "taking away one line, adds to the other lines" issue is interesting.  Sure, some may go to another line, but it, again probably won't be 100%.

(When did these lines exist anyway?  Were they first thing in the morning?)


Yes these are lines for things that were done early in the morning before the show opens at all.  Sure it may free up a few people that decide to go stand in Ballroom 20 or whatever instead but as you did, Ill say I for one would not be moving over to another line.  As it is now I get up hours before my wife during the con to go over and try for an autograph line, then after that is done I get into the general floor line for the con.  If it moves to lotteries......I WILL SLEEP IN!  Then get in the floor line at about the same time as I did before.  Again this is just me, but I have a feeling I won't be the only one.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 09, 2018, 10:04:38 AM
Certainly not everyone who would normally be in an autograph line for the Sails will move to another line. But a lot of them will. If even half of them move to a Hall H line or an offsite line, things will get significantly busier.

You guys are right in that people who are not so interested in autographs may not participate, but as Sefton pointed out, if people can enter to help friends, they will do so. It will be interesting to see how WonderCon enforces that aspect of things.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 09, 2018, 10:12:19 AM
Just take for instance, how many people want to do both autographs and the panel for a show (every year there seems to be someone asking about doing both for Game of Thrones).  Right now, they usually have to choose.  But hey, if I win the lottery, now I could do both.  And if I lost the lottery, then I guess I don't have to choose.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on March 09, 2018, 10:45:16 AM
I think the habit has evolved to "you wait in line X for the rest of us to join later" so not much more people will line up early if no more live autograph drawings this year.

The groups entering sails post-drawings in previous years were already with a post-autograph plan (Exhibit Hall, B20, Hall H, exit convention center.)

Part of those groups will still have to line up early to redeem their confirmations.  But those groups should be smaller and if CCI can limit entry to winners only or have winners get their respective wristbands at the Marriott  or Hyatt redemption/fulfillment room, the physical line can be just B20 and Exhibit Hall.

I don't think the online lotteries were meant to stop alleged autograph scalpers but space issues inside. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 09, 2018, 10:56:20 AM
to me what online lottery's bring is a chance to better prepare, better plan my day,  for comic book this great, I love to see them add Funko, Hasbro to the list of on line lotto. The complains about the Funko line are areal problem.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on March 09, 2018, 11:01:38 AM
"I'm not interested in autographs.  Switching to an online system isn't going to entice me to do something I'm not interested in.  So, if you fear everything single attendee is going to now participate, I offer up myself an example of someone who won't.  My friend won't either."


So you are really saying if you have a chance to get an autograph from either Tom Cruise, Steven Spielberg, Margot Robbie, Robert Downey Jr,Sandra Bullock,Harrison Ford with just a few simple click you would not go for it.... Just want to double check...and neither will any of your friends...Did I mention Margot Robbie....
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 09, 2018, 12:21:48 PM
Was doing this in the Funko Forum , but thought I would get your opinions too:
Let me Try to play with numbers out loud.
130,000 people attended SDCC last year. I think it's very realistic to say if there is a lottery for funko 50% of the people will enter so 65,000 entries.
I think I saw estimates of 4,000 customers going through the Funko both throughout the weekend, which means you would have roughly a 1:14 chance of winning entry (7% if you like percents better.) Not the best odds, but far from impossible .

(If any of these numbers sound off or you have better numbers by all means lets hear/see them as I would love to see a rough odds estimate).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 09, 2018, 12:29:13 PM
I want to say your 65,000 estimate sounds high, but the lottery wili encourage people to enter just to sell on eBay.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 09, 2018, 12:39:07 PM
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I want to say your 65,000 estimate sounds high, but the lottery wili encourage people to enter just to sell on eBay.
Yeah I think it's high too....but figured it was better to aim high than low.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 09, 2018, 12:44:28 PM
I was thinking that for the signings it might be as high as 100,000 people out of the official 130,000 attendees. Most people would not give up an easy chance to meet some of those A-List stars.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mlgagne on March 09, 2018, 12:59:29 PM
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I was thinking that for the signings it might be as high as 100,000 people out of the official 130,000 attendees. Most people would not give up an easy chance to meet some of those A-List stars.

I agree with this, especially for the major signings. And since that could be the case, I actually think it would be beneficial to either a.) limit the amount of signings that attendees can enter the lottery for (i.e. no more than 3 per day); or b.) base your odds of winning the lottery on how many signings per day you enter the lottery for (i.e. you have a higher chance of winning if you only enter for one signing on that day vs. entering for ten). That, plus tying trivia questions to each individual lottery entry (as suggested earlier, haha), might help to raise the chance of winning if this is how things are to be done going forward.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 09, 2018, 12:59:44 PM
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I was thinking that for the signings it might be as high as 100,000 people out of the official 130,000 attendees. Most people would not give up an easy chance to meet some of those A-List stars.
Again just guessing numbers.  But say there are 130,000 people going that includes volunteers and children that won't be able to enter the lottery (if done like wonder con).  There is also people that just show up and don't plan (me the first year I went).  There are kind people that won't enter if they aren't interested.  That all being said sure it is possible there could be 100,000 enterents, I just don't think it will be that high.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on March 09, 2018, 01:03:15 PM
Wow, really? I feel so alone...

I can guarantee that neither my husband nor I would ever enter a Funko lottery... we don't like Pops and reselling is just way too much hassle for us.

As for autographs, there's a 90% chance we'd never enter those either. I don't really want to meet stars that way. Mostly I love the characters, not the actors.

So maybe 100,000 out of 130,000 is a little high? Half seems more reasonable to me, not just because it's how I feel but also because lots of people are terrible at staying on top of things like that, even if it's just a few clicks.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 09, 2018, 01:03:36 PM
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Again just guessing numbers.  But say there are 130,000 people going that includes volunteers and children that won't be able to enter the lottery (if done like wonder con).  There is also people that just show up and don't plan (me the first year I went).  There are kind people that won't enter if they aren't interested.  That all being said sure it is possible there could be 100,000 enterents, I just don't think it will be that high.

130,000 is the capacity of the convention center/surrounding venues. That includes all general attendees, as well as exhibitors, press, professionals and (presumably) volunteers and staff. You are right that the volunteers/staff have not been able to participate in the WonderCon lotteries, and that might be the same for SDCC, if they implement it there. I don't know about exhibitors. Has anyone heard whether or not exhibitors can enter the lotteries? I do know that press and professionals have been able to enter.

Children are not 'badged' attendees, so they are not counted in that sense. Juniors (teens) have paid badges and can enter the lotteries.

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: sefton42 on March 09, 2018, 01:05:16 PM
At least for NYCC, exhibitors could not enter.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 09, 2018, 01:08:36 PM
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130,000 is the capacity of the convention center/surrounding venues. That includes all general attendees, as well as exhibitors, press, professionals and (presumably) volunteers and staff. You are right that the volunteers/staff have not been able to participate in the WonderCon lotteries, and that might be the same for SDCC, if they implement it there. I don't know about exhibitors. Has anyone heard whether or not exhibitors can enter the lotteries? I do know that press and professionals have been able to enter.

Children are not 'badged' attendees, so they are not counted in that sense. Juniors (teens) have paid badges and can enter the lotteries.
Yeah once you remove that type of people I think it would come down to 100,000 people that could enter, and again all those that are eligible won't enter.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Maxdoom5 on March 14, 2018, 03:47:39 AM
I for one hope they do an online lottery. The exclusive lines in sails have gotten way out of hand and time and again we cannot rely on the convention staff to property organize and funnel the lines through. Last year I camped out and was only about the 75th person in line for sails and yet couldn’t make it into the funko line because they screwed up and let about 500 people in the back of the marina cut. It’s also discerning to see all these “collectors” that work in teams to buy up the rarer items just for profit (some of which are exhibitors themselves). I think for every day of the con you can have like 3 entries to lotteries of your choice (funko,WB, hall H etc) so that the playing field was a lot more equal for everyone especially the families. I know it sounds cliche but we need to try to make some sort of efforts to return the convention back to fandom rather than just as an opportunity to turn a quick buck. As a side note I would also love to see a lottery applied to the funko pop up shop as well so that the first 30 guys in line aren’t scalpers that camp out for 3 days in a row with no intention of enjoying the con. I also think that as the con grows with the new expansion plans to the convention center, the sails lines will be too overwhelming from a logistical standpoint and it’s only a matter of time until someone gets trampled or into an altercation


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on March 14, 2018, 10:59:02 AM
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I think for every day of the con you can have like 3 entries to lotteries of your choice (funko,WB, hall H etc) so that the playing field was a lot more equal for everyone especially the families.

This reminds me of how the ATX TV Festival does their Fast Passes for panels.  They ask you to pick your eight most desired panels and ultimately, after the lottery, you get the top 4 that are available at the time your turn comes up.  It works quite well.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on March 14, 2018, 11:07:20 AM
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"I'm not interested in autographs.  Switching to an online system isn't going to entice me to do something I'm not interested in.  So, if you fear everything single attendee is going to now participate, I offer up myself an example of someone who won't.  My friend won't either."


So you are really saying if you have a chance to get an autograph from either Tom Cruise, Steven Spielberg, Margot Robbie, Robert Downey Jr,Sandra Bullock,Harrison Ford with just a few simple click you would not go for it.... Just want to double check...and neither will any of your friends...Did I mention Margot Robbie....

Yep.  I'm saying that.  I don't understand the appeal.  I read somewhere that the origin of the autograph was to give people an excuse to get close to a star and linger for a few seconds.  It wasn't the autograph itself, but those few seconds.  The few times I have done autographs to try it out, I got no pleasure from it.  Those few seconds don't amount to much for me.  It's so artificial and not a genuine experience.

On the other hand, I treasure real encounters with famous people.  I once found myself next to James Gandolfini of the Sopranos at a bar and that was real to me.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Maxdoom5 on March 14, 2018, 12:30:10 PM
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This reminds me of how the ATX TV Festival does their Fast Passes for panels.  They ask you to pick your eight most desired panels and ultimately, after the lottery, you get the top 4 that are available at the time your turn comes up.  It works quite well.
See that makes a ton of sense. The cons purpose should always be so that everyone has a fair shot to experience as much of possible


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: eadame29 on March 15, 2018, 07:37:16 AM
The lottery for a new process does have its pros and cons.  The real deciding factor here is if Comic Con would release their programming earlier to accommodate for the online lottery.  In the past programming is released 2 weeks before the event.  I know that several autograph events are released before with dates and times but this would need to be done for all of them in order to prepare for the lottery.  I don't know or think that CC would do that right a way.  Too late for the lottery and it can leave them scrambling or crash the site and we are dealing with another fiasco.  Even exclusives would have to change the way its done.  By now, everyone has a good idea of how the lines work for panel, autographs and exclusives.  I know it hasn't been easy but what at comic con is.  The early bird gets the worm has been my motto for being there and every year it gets tougher but i keep on trying.  I know there are people who cannot get to lines or have access like everyone else and I hope that situation can be remedied for a better experience.  I remember a time when the autograph lines were first come on the convention floor and people were making mad dashes to the booths.  Then it started changing to the sails pavilion.  Trying to make it better each year is the point.  As for fair, I don't think it will ever be fair as we have seen with badge sales and hotel sales.  There is always gonna be argument that its not fair and will never be.  We all go for a chance to see people  or to get an exclusive and know thats its not guaranteed and thats the fair part.  Its just a chance.  The badge doesn't grant you anything extra, just entry to the convention and after that what you do is up to you.  I'm on the fence about switching to an online lottery system. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: FlamedLiquid on March 15, 2018, 11:21:59 AM
This isn't the way to handle panels in rooms. The autograph thing was random before anyways, it's just you were deciding your fate with reaching in a bag instead.

There's a lot of people that fly to SDCC from different states and countries that line up for these panels on a yearly basis along with California natives. Switching to online based is really going to lower some of their spirits knowing they can't go to a panel regardless. If sdcc switched to this I'm sure it'll lessen their international and out of state revenue a bit.

What they need to do for lines in general is allow a person to only hold a spot for one or two people max. Not 6 or 7.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 15, 2018, 07:04:39 PM
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This isn't the way to handle panels in rooms. The autograph thing was random before anyways, it's just you were deciding your fate with reaching in a bag instead.

There's a lot of people that fly to SDCC from different states and countries that line up for these panels on a yearly basis along with California natives. Switching to online based is really going to lower some of their spirits knowing they can't go to a panel regardless. If sdcc switched to this I'm sure it'll lessen their international and out of state revenue a bit.

What they need to do for lines in general is allow a person to only hold a spot for one or two people max. Not 6 or 7.
Security does not do a good job of enforcing the place-holding. This is a big problem on both lines. Some folks do follow the rules or are respectful however that is not the majority from what I have seen personally.

I will also weight in again to say if there is a lottery on the autographs there should be an offset for panels to balance out the demand shift. The folks who are focused on panels may take exception to that however autograph seekers like myself only see the lottery as a huge challenge due to the increased odds.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Kevin Rutan on March 20, 2018, 09:59:23 AM
I can't see them instituting this for panels. For one they limit the drawing to people who already have badges. This would block children from going to panels and CCI isn't going to do that. It also brings up the issue of families. CCI isn't going to want to listen to the complaints when only one person in a family can get into the panel that they want. Honestly, I'm not a fan of this system for the people that like autographs, it just rewards people that don't want to wait in line and just accomplishes making other lines longer.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on March 20, 2018, 11:48:49 AM
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The early bird gets the worm has been my motto for being there and every year it gets tougher but i keep on trying.  I know there are people who cannot get to lines or have access like everyone else and I hope that situation can be remedied for a better experience.  I remember a time when the autograph lines were first come on the convention floor and people were making mad dashes to the booths.  Then it started changing to the sails pavilion.  Trying to make it better each year is the point.  As for fair, I don't think it will ever be fair as we have seen with badge sales and hotel sales.  There is always gonna be argument that its not fair and will never be.  We all go for a chance to see people  or to get an exclusive and know thats its not guaranteed and thats the fair part.  Its just a chance.  The badge doesn't grant you anything extra, just entry to the convention and after that what you do is up to you.  I'm on the fence about switching to an online lottery system.
1. I think an online lotto for autographs is about as fair as it gets where everyone has an equal chance of landing their favorite show/upcoming movie autograph tix.
2. I suspect CCI is trying to do everything they can to get away from "Line Con."  As crazy as it is to get tix, it sucks if people basically need to expect to miss a day's worth of panels and whatnot for autographs.  Sure, plenty are obviously willing to do that, but not everyone can (for example, most parking doesn't open until 5am).
3. I said the same exact thing you did when CCI went to the online random thing for Pre-Registration.  I was really livid and had no qualms lining up and whatnot for the next year's badges (and, really, only the last 2 or so years sucked - most years I just bought them right after I picked up my badge in Sail's w/zero line).  But after that first year, when I realized I didn't have to wait out all night downtown on the pavement, or give up other cool things because I had to wait by the bay for next year's badges: I thought the new system was pretty great.  LIKE ALWAYS some folks get lucky and some don't and I'm OK with that.  If this new autograph policy (which may or may not be in play for CCI, right?) does the same, then I think that's an overall good thing, even though, as you say, people WILL miss out.  Just like every year

The thought that some people are somehow more worthy than others for autographs seems a little elitist to me.  As the system worked in the past, yes, first in line was good and obviously if people didn't plan ahead that's on them and those that planned/were rewarded were good to go.  But if the new system smooths things out at CCI (and WonderCon), and means more people have a chance to get autographs from their favorite shows AND get to do other things, then I think that's awesome.  I will be curious to see how this runs in actuality and for those going to WonderCon I will be curious to hear how it goes (though not interested in the "I got screwed and didn't win the lotto" type of rantings).  I think this would be perfect for major exclusives (Funko, Hasbro, Mattel, Hallmark, etc) as well and might help thin the market of dealers getting the lions share of coolest exclusives and give other folks (and, you know, kids) a chance to guy some of the toys.

Short of a MAJOR change in how CCI does panels, I can't see this working out.  I think maybe the only way it could work without a complete retooling of their logistics (as someone else mentioned, there would be MUCH fewer panels in Hall H or Ballroom 20 if they had to clear the floor and re-seat everyone after every panel) would be to, maybe, to a lotto for, say, 1k front-of-the-line type of passes while the rest of the attendees follow their usual Lineupalooza (can I trademark that?!).  I dunno if that's possible, or even anything CCI is thinking of anything like that.  I think at this point, with as long as SDCCI has been around, and the myriad of changes it's gone under in just the last decade, I'm at a place where change happens and maybe just sit back and let CCI folks make the tweaks for all of us. 

At WonderCon several years ago (the first year they used the arena in Anaheim, IIRC), I was actually in line right by a CCI employee who's job was to create and manage the line logistics.  She was SUPER cool, and grilled myself and others about the line experiences, what can be better, etc.  I got the sense that CCI is legitimately trying to make things as smooth and easy for us as possible and I have faith in that (of course they don't always 100% succeed but they're not afraid to shake things up with changes or tweaks if they feel it will be best for all).  I think the lotto for autograph change is what's best for EVERYONE, even if it upsets the lineup folks.  We'll see how it works in practice
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 20, 2018, 12:38:49 PM
Very well sell.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 20, 2018, 05:30:41 PM
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It's a good article.

I just want to comment on the issue addressed of online lotteries decreasing your odds of winning because more people will participate.  Surely, they will, but *how many* is the question.

I'm not interested in autographs.  Switching to an online system isn't going to entice me to do something I'm not interested in.  So, if you fear everything single attendee is going to now participate, I offer up myself an example of someone who won't.  My friend won't either.


I agree it won't be everyone - I think where a lot of the 'extra' numbers will come from are people who would normally try for one signing (and realistically, at least for those that were drawn in the sails pavillion, you could normally only try for one anyway), now enter everything because they either have a minor interest in a show (but not enough that they would normally bother lining up), or because they think they will be able to trade a winning wristband for something else (I know they are meant to be non-transferable, but I'm sure people will find ways to get around that).

If they do implement this system at SDCC, then limiting the number of signings each person can try for would be one modification I would suggest.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: rushfanyyz on March 21, 2018, 06:29:33 AM
Going off that, for example if you like The Flash, you also probably like Arrow, Legends of Tomorrow, Black Lightning, Supergirl.  Most of these signings are on the same day. Before, you could only get one without going to the back of the line and drawing again (which really is unrealistic except for the very few at the beginning initially).  Now, you can enter all of them increasing the total pool.  If they do end up doing the lottery for SDCC, I would at least hope they do some sort of limitation on entries. Doesn't have to be an extreme limit, but something reasonable would be nice.   ...even though I hope they don't do lottery at all for reasons already discussed...

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 21, 2018, 07:52:49 AM
I get the points to limiting the entries....but also that is like saying hey you can only like so many things. 
I LIKE A LOT OF STUFF!
And I have found completely new stuff I liked simply by going to new panels or signings that I knew nothing about previously.
#TeamNoLimit #TeamLottery
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Jason on March 21, 2018, 08:00:44 AM
There are benefits and drawbacks to both systems, but I still prefer the existing system. I have spent the night in line and pulled losing tickets, but it's still better to me than entering alongside 40,000 other people where my chances are less than 1%.

The benefit to the random drawings:
a) It will eliminate the people who bring their kids and have them pull over and over again.
b) It will eliminate people skipping in line.
c) It will eliminate massive lines and the logistical nightmare they have every morning with the drawings.

Both a) and b) are big deals for me - last year someone let 17 people in the Marvel line in front of me and when I complained to them one of them threatened me (his exact words: 'there are 15 of us, and 1 of you. What are you going to do?'). When I told the Marvel people (and the line people at Marvel are awesome, btw - they probably have the hardest job on the con floor because that booth is a non-stop madhouse) they couldn't remove them because they didn't see it happen.

So the random drawings would eliminate me seeing the same 10 people who somehow are first in line and pull the winning Game of Thrones tickets every year, the exhibitors who win the big Marvel signings by being over there before the floor ever opens, or the people who run from the bay and get into the Funko line and I like that. But I also don't like the idea that my con experience is determined by a random draw a month before I ever get there. If I want to put the effort in to wait and pull for autographs, that is my con experience. I get that my con itself is already determined by random chance as to whether or not I even get tickets or a hotel, and I get the people who say there is so much going on and autographs are a small part of the overall experience, but I go there primarily to get famous people to sign their names and with this change I would be lucky to win one or two things a year and that ends SDCC for me.

I am close to 'retiring' anyway - I am about to have a new mortgage so I need to find places to save money, I have a bad hip, the people I go with are tired of going after 17 years - so this would just speed up the inevitable anyway. But that's my rambling 2¢.

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on March 21, 2018, 09:18:26 AM
Lotteries eliminate the ugliest parts of SDCC, which are line cutters, line scammers, people using kids to get what they want, people physically trampling other people, people abusing ADA. It really eliminates this stuff. Yes it lowers your odds if you are one of the people who is able and willing to go through all of the ugly stuff mentioned above, but it could be worth it in the end. I'm someone who does the lines and camping and making myself ragged, but I'm about done with that honestly. I think I'd welcome an online lottery at this point. I tried in WC and I lost them all, which was a bummer, b/c autographs are usually my main thing, but I'm ok with finding a new main thing b/c there are SO MANY THINGS worthy of being my main thing!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on March 21, 2018, 09:43:42 AM
I agree. Unfortunately, I think the only workable alternative to lotteries is REALLY EXCELLENT line management, which CCI has just never been willing to commit sufficient resources to. IMHO it would require high-level consultants from places like Disneyland and/or the TSA, and many, many, many more line personnel to enforce rules. It may also be impossible without a more permanent physical infrastructure for the lines (i.e., real fences/gates/etc), which the Convention Center is obviously not going to install.

Love it or hate it, lotteries seem to me to be the only realistic way for CCI to cure its line problems.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Kevin Rutan on March 21, 2018, 10:12:10 AM
It also occurred to me that switching a lot of things to online lotteries also prevents volunteers from participating. I wonder how many people would stop participating if they didn't have a shot at autographs/panels/exclusives. If the need arose to replace volunteers with paid personnel CCI's costs would increase and badge prices would go up accordingly.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on March 21, 2018, 10:53:42 AM
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I get the points to limiting the entries....but also that is like saying hey you can only like so many things. 
I LIKE A LOT OF STUFF!
And I have found completely new stuff I liked simply by going to new panels or signings that I knew nothing about previously.
#TeamNoLimit #TeamLottery
I agree with you, and this thought is the center of why panels would be VERY difficult to have lotto's for.

Maybe a somewhere-in-the-middle compromise (and wildly more complicated) would be a priority type of thing where you rate your Top 3 or Top 5 or something (sort of like how the Oscar votes are weighted based on choice).  Maybe that type of prioritizing could give a better shot at your #1 or something?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 21, 2018, 11:00:14 AM
As i see it there are pros and cons to any convention i guess. i have posted before and still remember how i have been able to get pics and stuff signed by some who i know or knew of at the time by chance and didnt have to wait in a line over nite to get to them and say hi and get something signed by chance and a pics. i wont waste time in a line unless a short one by chance before or after a job. i can wait till any star / celeb is in the sails area and then give a try to meet and greet anyone i know and wanna meet in person. some in the past i didnt expect to meet by did and was cool. even if didnt get a pic with i had chance get of them with others of a project at time. i check last year for any in sails and none really wannted to see by chance, but every year is different so gotta just check and see what i can do this year. i did by chance see some in exhibit hall and some goods signed and some not for any reason at time. so hope a chance do what i can this year and see what can score by chance at anytime.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 21, 2018, 04:45:25 PM
you know something we have done this to ourselves, signing  are just the start, because people find ways to cheat, when i first went in 2013 going at 4am it was good, I was one the 1st 100 for so people, 2017 i would have to line up at 8pm or earlier the day before, look at hall H were there not line forming 48 hours before  the panel, whats next starting  the sunday panel line on thursday
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 21, 2018, 06:12:51 PM
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you know something we have done this to ourselves, signing  are just the start, because people find ways to cheat, when i first went in 2013 going at 4am it was good, I was one the 1st 100 for so people, 2017 i would have to line up at 8pm or earlier the day before, look at hall H were there not line forming 48 hours before  the panel, whats next starting  the sunday panel line on thursday
I slightly disagree. We did not do this to ourselves. The process evolved without adequate controls manage abuses and manage logistical ineffienciesThe studios shifted the draws to occur early in the morning. When I first attended in 2012 and then in 2013 the drawings were held throughout the day 1 to 3 hours before the signing. There was no overnight camping except for the exhibit hall exclusive hunters and the studio booth draws for signings like Marvel.

Once the signings shifted to the early morning it channeled everyone interested to the EE line.

It didn’t have to get to this point

They could easily revert back to that model for autographs which would lead to a decrease in the overnight line, ADA abuse/cutting, cutting from the marina, and the spot holding abuses.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 21, 2018, 08:03:37 PM
Years ago before the sdcc con got so popular there was no camping out and u was able to catch a panels of movies. i was able see stuff of ang lee hulk, terminator 3, daredevil movie, and xmen -not sure which but one of them. but times have changed so much and not sure but can try catch any panel this year if all goes right and nt busy thurs or sun by chance. i can skip the signings unless they in sails area but depend who is there that i wanna see at the time. so really not sure how they gona do things till they say so after wondercon this year i guess. and so far it mixed with the lottery stuff i read so far .
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on March 22, 2018, 09:51:56 AM
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There are benefits and drawbacks to both systems, but I still prefer the existing system. I have spent the night in line and pulled losing tickets, but it's still better to me than entering alongside 40,000 other people where my chances are less than 1%.

The benefit to the random drawings:
a) It will eliminate the people who bring their kids and have them pull over and over again.
b) It will eliminate people skipping in line.
c) It will eliminate massive lines and the logistical nightmare they have every morning with the drawings.

Both a) and b) are big deals for me - last year someone let 17 people in the Marvel line in front of me and when I complained to them one of them threatened me (his exact words: 'there are 15 of us, and 1 of you. What are you going to do?'). When I told the Marvel people (and the line people at Marvel are awesome, btw - they probably have the hardest job on the con floor because that booth is a non-stop madhouse) they couldn't remove them because they didn't see it happen.

So the random drawings would eliminate me seeing the same 10 people who somehow are first in line and pull the winning Game of Thrones tickets every year, the exhibitors who win the big Marvel signings by being over there before the floor ever opens, or the people who run from the bay and get into the Funko line and I like that. But I also don't like the idea that my con experience is determined by a random draw a month before I ever get there. If I want to put the effort in to wait and pull for autographs, that is my con experience. I get that my con itself is already determined by random chance as to whether or not I even get tickets or a hotel, and I get the people who say there is so much going on and autographs are a small part of the overall experience, but I go there primarily to get famous people to sign their names and with this change I would be lucky to win one or two things a year and that ends SDCC for me.

I am close to 'retiring' anyway - I am about to have a new mortgage so I need to find places to save money, I have a bad hip, the people I go with are tired of going after 17 years - so this would just speed up the inevitable anyway. But that's my rambling 2¢.
Do you just/mainly go to Comic-Con for autographs?
I've mostly been pretty 'meh' about autographs, and Bruce Campbell solidified that with his thoughts about fans in "If Chins Could Kill."  It's not like you really get have quality time, or even really talk to celebrities when signing.  If you're a huge fan of a property I can see getting, say, a poster of a favorite movie by the director or stars or something (I got a rad Mike Mignola INCREDIBLES poster signed by he and Brad Bird after the Incredibles panel one year a long time ago), or a favorite comic signed by a writer or illustrated or something like that.  But I've never really had a huge interest in that stuff (meaning, I will definitely not be a 'well I didn't want to wait in line but maybe now I'll jump in the lotto and try my luck" guy).

If all of the booths charged for autographs what would you all think?  Like if, say, Marvel had the INFINITY WAR cast signing posters and charged $100 would you be into that?  That seems like it would cut down on a lot of superfluous casual collectors.  I always think with lottos there should be a happy medium: like, maybe half of the autograph 'slots' go randomly in a lotto while others can try their luck and camp out still.  That way people who feel like they have the legit advantage and desire camping out for hours on end for autographs can still do that, and randos can try their luck in the lotto.  Maybe those of you avid collectors can bring this up at the Talk-Back on Sunday if you're not happy with the lotto.

Just my mostly casual thoughts: I don't really care either way and I'm not really impacted at all.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 22, 2018, 01:01:31 PM
It has been a long time since i really got a autograph from a star/celeb in person. most time now it from comic book makers. maybe if i read of a star/celeb at con i really want a autograph from then i wil try and do what i can at time, saw some at sdcc last year but the event has changed so much that its like a madhouse kinda lol. i mean they are people just like us but fans sometimes like trip out and go fan crazy kinda i guess sometimes. i guess as a kid - they are chill and kinda excited. and then over time people can be calm and chat and ask stuff but then some just loose it and the signer is like wow and try help fan relax and chat some as they try give fan something signed and pic by chance at time. i hope they have some real good stars or celeb who dont charge a arm and leg to sign and get a pic by chance. or will just try do fly by random of them with fans and hope they dont trip out as they doing things lol.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Jason on March 22, 2018, 01:24:10 PM
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Do you just/mainly go to Comic-Con for autographs?
I've mostly been pretty 'meh' about autographs, and Bruce Campbell solidified that with his thoughts about fans in "If Chins Could Kill."  It's not like you really get have quality time, or even really talk to celebrities when signing.  If you're a huge fan of a property I can see getting, say, a poster of a favorite movie by the director or stars or something (I got a rad Mike Mignola INCREDIBLES poster signed by he and Brad Bird after the Incredibles panel one year a long time ago), or a favorite comic signed by a writer or illustrated or something like that.  But I've never really had a huge interest in that stuff (meaning, I will definitely not be a 'well I didn't want to wait in line but maybe now I'll jump in the lotto and try my luck" guy).

If all of the booths charged for autographs what would you all think?  Like if, say, Marvel had the INFINITY WAR cast signing posters and charged $100 would you be into that?  That seems like it would cut down on a lot of superfluous casual collectors.  I always think with lottos there should be a happy medium: like, maybe half of the autograph 'slots' go randomly in a lotto while others can try their luck and camp out still.  That way people who feel like they have the legit advantage and desire camping out for hours on end for autographs can still do that, and randos can try their luck in the lotto.  Maybe those of you avid collectors can bring this up at the Talk-Back on Sunday if you're not happy with the lotto.

Just my mostly casual thoughts: I don't really care either way and I'm not really impacted at all.

Now I mainly go for autographs, although originally when I was coming with my wife and SDCC was just a part of our vacation I tried to do it all - a couple of panels, do some shopping, a few autographs, maybe an offsite (one year we went to Avenue Q).

As the years have gone on the con really forced you to specialize because everything had to happen in the morning (line up for autographs and your panel room line is too long by the time you finish, try for Funko and you miss all the other morning drawings, etc) and now it's mainly autographs and a few Mondo prints, and failing to get into the Funko booth. But I meet friends now so it's not my family vacation, and it costs me $2000+ to attend, and getting one autograph all weekend and strolling around or maybe attending a panel is not worth the cost to me.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 23, 2018, 11:35:08 AM
I feel lucky i discovered volunteering, so i can plan on what i can do before and after job and get what i can and skip all the craziness of lines for funko and autographs , etc. only lines i do are to get like everyone else and maybe get something signed by chance inside. i made a point to check in with anyone i connect to on fb, so can meet in person by chance and get a comic signed by chance and all. the theme of the con has changed so much so i try not follow the hype and show comic makers the support they deserve for all comics and art they do to make alot awesome comic covers over time. i know now gotta check in with them early to skip lines and show support and hope not charge too much to sign a comic by chance. then really decide what swag is worth getting to not be weighd down before end of day lol.

So autographs are cool to get, it just not cool i think that those who get to profit later instead of being those who get and value so can brag they got cause never know when u gonna get them sign anything again. just gotta wait till more news is out as to who be where and when and get what i can signed at time.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 27, 2018, 09:07:46 AM
This is my assessment of how the online lotteries worked at WonderCon, as well as some suggestions for SDCC.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/27/online-lotteries-in-action-at-wondercon-2018/
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 27, 2018, 10:02:22 AM
My one comment on the article is it doesn't really mention the counter plus side to the lottery at all.  AKA it says people who were used to the old ways had worse odds and didn't always win, but no comment about people who had never been able to get signings before now getting this new opportunity.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 27, 2018, 10:21:35 AM
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My one comment on the article is it doesn't really mention the counter plus side to the lottery at all.  AKA it says people who were used to the old ways had worse odds and didn't always win, but no comment about people who had never been able to get signings before now getting this new opportunity.

That's a fair point, but I talked to perhaps 100 people and there was no one who said that they weren't interested in signings but had won anyway. I simply did not find any attendees in that category.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 27, 2018, 11:20:37 AM
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That's a fair point, but I talked to perhaps 100 people and there was no one who said that they weren't interested in signings but had won anyway. I simply did not find any attendees in that category.
Sorry that's not quiet what I meant.  I mean people who were interested in signings, but previously not been able to wait in the lines to get them, but now thanks to the new system had an opportunity (whether or not they won.)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on March 27, 2018, 12:01:17 PM
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Sorry that's not quiet what I meant.  I mean people who were interested in signings, but previously not been able to wait in the lines to get them, but now thanks to the new system had an opportunity (whether or not they won.)
I will say from first hand knowledge that the line camp does not shut folks out who casually want to try for an autograph draw. My roommates were able to win draws without having to wait in line - this is legit with no line cutting or space holding. All they did was show up after the crowd died down and they got on the Fox line, for example, and won their drawings. This happened last year and the year before.

With that said - I got up early and got on line with the hope of getting in early for my target autograph draw while they got their sleep.

Not all attempts will lead to success but I made an effort to get on line to wait. They chose a different plan.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 27, 2018, 12:02:45 PM
If i had made getting a signing chance, i would have tried for all signings so have better chance to get something then nothing really. not sure how many they are doing , but since i volunteer it might conflict so wont try for it any really unless a chance for something in sails before or after a job really . i just glad i dont stress over this stuff if know be easier to get any at booths with short lines and all.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 27, 2018, 12:16:39 PM
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Sorry that's not quiet what I meant.  I mean people who were interested in signings, but previously not been able to wait in the lines to get them, but now thanks to the new system had an opportunity (whether or not they won.)

I am certain that people who were not willing to wait in line entered and won, but it is my suspicion that they made up the majority of those who did not claim their wristbands. I did meet a few people who said that they had never won a signing before, and were excited about it, because they were interested in the property.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: LB42 on March 27, 2018, 02:07:33 PM
My apologies if this has been answered: I'm guessing that at Wondercon there was a higher rate of autograph wristband no-shows than the days  when people had to put "sleep/line/time equity" into getting a wristband. Was there a formal standby process for autograph spots to replace lottery no-shows?

If not, what ended up happening?   I know at SDCC you can sometimes sneak into the back of an autograph line if the stars still have time to sign and the line minder is nice.  I would hate to think that's the fallback.

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 27, 2018, 03:07:03 PM
At SDCC all wristbands were  handed out. That’s because the lottery took place then and there, and the winners immediately got their wristbands.

As for standby, I think if the signing is on the floor, some places let in standby, but many of the signings are in secret rooms, so people wouldn’t even know where to go for standby.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mario Wario on March 27, 2018, 04:53:12 PM
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Sorry that's not quiet what I meant.  I mean people who were interested in signings, but previously not been able to wait in the lines to get them, but now thanks to the new system had an opportunity (whether or not they won.)
Indeed, everyone now has a shot at a signing by doing a lottery, but that shot is actually far worse than before. I get the “stop camping” or “stop the line cutters” arguments, but with everyone entering, you’re back to square one. You save time, sure, but you’re actually far away from your goal, which is to win something. People do want to win something or have that feeling in being successful.

This lottery feels like a placebo—you know, something merely to calm or please someone into thinking that they’ll get better. We “think” we are winning by saving time, which is totally true and a few did win something but in truth...are we truly winners here? No way this system would work at SDCC, particularly when it comes to the standby policy. To be fair, the new system is still in beta. Let’s see where it goes.

As for the article, TJ did everything humanly possible to make sure everything would be correct by asking the right questions. It’s hard to keep someone still for so long, especially at a major con.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: jazzyj on March 27, 2018, 06:04:01 PM
As much as camping out for autograph sucks (I've tried twice and was unsuccessful for both), I must say that without camping out, I wouldn't have met some of the con friends that I've made who have actually helped me score a badge for this year.

That being said I hope SDCC doesn't go with the lottery route because I feel like I have greater control of my chances (but that's just me).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on March 27, 2018, 07:12:47 PM
My input is that I am someone who previously has always waited in the lines and gone for autographs and this didn't bother me. I didn't win and I also didn't worry myself trying to figure out how to standby. I simply accepted it, slept in, had a nice leisurely breakfast and loved every minute of my WonderCon.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 27, 2018, 09:30:58 PM
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At SDCC all wristbands were  handed out. That’s because the lottery took place then and there, and the winners immediately got their wristbands.

As for standby, I think if the signing is on the floor, some places let in standby, but many of the signings are in secret rooms, so people wouldn’t even know where to go for standby.

At SDCC it really depends on the booth (these are for signings that happen on the floor) as to whether they have standby.  WB never does, I can't say for Marvel but I assume they don't.  Fox will have standby at times, but you never really know for which signings. Sometimes they don't because the guests were late or an earlier autograph session was running late; or the guests have to go do media etc. 
However, I have also noticed that if there are too many people wanting to try for standby, or if people queue up too early, they will disband the standby line (because if they don't, CCI staff will because of fire safety concerns) will). 

I suspect the same things that happened at wondrecon will happen at SDCC - wristbands not picked up, 'space' in the signing for more attendees, but a claim by SDCC that there are no standby lines.  I understand them saying that because if they start having 'official' standby lines, people will start trying to queue up earlier and earlier.  However, by always saying 'officially' that there is no standby line, then having them in a lot of cases, I think it seems a bad precedent. You are told at SDCC there is no standby line: "Well we heard that at Wondercon, we will just create our own unofficial one" (and then you get the problems mentioned in the article, like crowds on the floors, aggressive behaviour etc).   
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on March 27, 2018, 09:33:50 PM
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This is my assessment of how the online lotteries worked at WonderCon, as well as some suggestions for SDCC.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/27/online-lotteries-in-action-at-wondercon-2018/

One thing I have seen on twitter - it sounded like some people who had won signings didn't pick up their wristbands but just showed the confirmation on their phone at the actual signing?
Did you see this happening at all?

That in itself has problems - obviously potential for misuse unless they are very carefully checking names etc (having multiple people show the same 'confirmation'); and also if they do ever try to have a more 'official' standby process and need an idea of how many wristbands are left before the signing, it would throw out those numbers.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 28, 2018, 09:46:40 AM
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One thing I have seen on twitter - it sounded like some people who had won signings didn't pick up their wristbands but just showed the confirmation on their phone at the actual signing?
Did you see this happening at all?

That in itself has problems - obviously potential for misuse unless they are very carefully checking names etc (having multiple people show the same 'confirmation'); and also if they do ever try to have a more 'official' standby process and need an idea of how many wristbands are left before the signing, it would throw out those numbers.

Some people were showing confirmations on phones. However, the name on the confirmation had to match the name on the ID, which had to match the name on the pre-printed list. So you could alter the image to show a different name, but if it doesn't match the name on the list, then they wouldn't give you the wristband.

They also marked off the names on the list as wristbands were picked up, so it wouldn't be possible to go through twice to get 2 wristbands with the same confirmation.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: FlamedLiquid on March 28, 2018, 10:25:42 AM
I know it would be a hassle but it's too bad they can't just have someone walk the line at certain times with a badge scanner to log people in at certain times. Let's say each line has like a check in every couple hours and that each person in line can tell the person scanning badges the names of other people in their party if they aren't present (along with badge number if possible) and they can log them in that way. I'd say each person can only hold spots for 2 extra people though. No one giving someone a list of 7 names.
And then make it a requirement for a person to be at at least 2 or 3 of those check in times. So if you're holding a spot that person has to be there in line a few of those check in times.

I know this won't eliminate all problems but I think it would definitely damper it. Put those codes implemented in the badges to more use too.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 28, 2018, 10:57:16 AM
maybe would look at from the stand point of a child,  i asked my 12 year old and she " i don't want to go to line con", she hates it everything is a line, we accept lines  and all that goes with it,  I will sit through 3 or 4 panels to see the one i want, i wonder if CCI has looked at it from the other point of view
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 28, 2018, 11:49:51 AM
I'm with the 12 year old.  Pass on the lines.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: omraged9 on March 28, 2018, 10:47:09 PM
TJ: Very informative article, thanks. I like the different scenarios you presented where CCI could change the autograph system to make it better. I almost sort of like the idea of charging a fee to prevent people from signing up for every autograph signing. Even $2-3 signup fee for each autograph procedure could help cut down the signups from non-fans. But CCI would most likely not do that since they're not trying to make money off of this system and they'd have to deal with extra issues like credit card payments. But I do wish they will consider limiting the number of signups per person to, say, 5 autograph signings so it gives real fans of the TV shows a real chance to win.

At Wondercon, I did like how they set up the distribution for the wristbands and how they organized the signings (placing the signings in more obscure rooms). In a way, I sort of like the idea of some no-shows for the lesser popular signings. If you are a true fan but didn't win a ticket, it gave you an opportunity to try to wrangle a wristband after most of  the wristbands were dispensed. Or you could have joined the standby line to try your luck. Basically these open spots gives fans who didn't win an opportunity to try their luck on-site if they put the extra effort in trying to pick up a leftover wristband or go in a standby line, whereas the usual SDCC autograph system doesn't usually allow these same opportunities. Of course for popular TV show signings, it does become quite messy when there's too many fans trying to obtain the few open spots.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 29, 2018, 08:07:42 AM
Omraged9, I agree with what you're saying. But the reality is that there will always be more people interested in signings than there are places. At SDCC, this is exponentially more true. IF there is any kind of standby line to give away extra wristbands, it will be overwhelmed with a line and all of the ugly behaviors we have seen in the past.

Giving away extra wristbands to fans is a good thing, but using a standby line will not help with the line situation. That's why I suggested giving away extra wristbands at the panel. That way, the only line would be for the panel, and that already exists, plus the wristbands would be more likely to go to people who truly want to be at the signing.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on March 29, 2018, 09:50:06 AM
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Omraged9, I agree with what you're saying. But the reality is that there will always be more people interested in signings than there are places. At SDCC, this is exponentially more true. IF there is any kind of standby line to give away extra wristbands, it will be overwhelmed with a line and all of the ugly behaviors we have seen in the past.

Giving away extra wristbands to fans is a good thing, but using a standby line will not help with the line situation. That's why I suggested giving away extra wristbands at the panel. That way, the only line would be for the panel, and that already exists, plus the wristbands would be more likely to go to people who truly want to be at the signing.
That would also clear out some folks in Ballroom 20 or Hall H to make way for people still waiting in line for the next panel(s).  That'd be a fun change, IMO, but would require a lot of logistics flip-flop since the signings are usually before the panels I think.  For comic artists/writers it would be awesome because it would 'reward' people who attend, say, Jim Lee's spotlight panel instead of just the casual fan of his work (hello, me: I LOVE his work but I tend to not go to the Spotlight panels)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 29, 2018, 12:20:10 PM
As i see it true fans are ones who try get pic and something signed by chance, non true fans guessing just get something signed and maybe chat some and then later find it on ebay for some crazy hi price later. i think but mite be wrong is true fans dont flip any signed stuff. non true fans will get a comics or something signed and have it posted to flip over niter for hii price later. so i see those who check out panel are ones are fans or even try do standby are real fans. but rest wont care for panel and just do stand by just to profit any . but again i might be wrong on how i see things.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 29, 2018, 12:31:31 PM
WTF is up with the "True Fans"  do you have to really pass some kind of test to justify if you like something or not.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on March 29, 2018, 12:45:50 PM
the true fan is nothing more the a Fanatic  , it is a way to justify what what is right and what  is wrong
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 29, 2018, 12:57:10 PM
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the true fan is nothing more the a Fanatic  , it is a way to justify what what is right and what  is wrong
Sounds like an elitist / entitled way to pick out who is a "real fan"
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Zero on March 29, 2018, 08:29:14 PM
Let's get back on-topic regarding autograph signing procedures and the discussion of suggestions for Comic-Con, shall we?

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation, everyone!  :]
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: omraged9 on March 29, 2018, 09:46:56 PM
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WTF is up with the "True Fans"  do you have to really pass some kind of test to justify if you like something or not.

Sorry, I wasn't trying to separate out 'true fans' from 'fake fans.' I just mean it'd be nice if people who sign up for particular signings actually watch the show. The way CCI has organized the signings, it lets anyone sign up for any signing which means you might get more scalpers in there who sign up just to sell the autographed poster on ebay. So I was just trying to distinguish between a fan of a show vs a potential scalper.

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Omraged9, I agree with what you're saying. But the reality is that there will always be more people interested in signings than there are places. At SDCC, this is exponentially more true. IF there is any kind of standby line to give away extra wristbands, it will be overwhelmed with a line and all of the ugly behaviors we have seen in the past.

Giving away extra wristbands to fans is a good thing, but using a standby line will not help with the line situation. That's why I suggested giving away extra wristbands at the panel. That way, the only line would be for the panel, and that already exists, plus the wristbands would be more likely to go to people who truly want to be at the signing.

You're right about it being too messy at SDCC. It might have worked ok in Wondercon but with more people at SDCC and less space for standby lines, it wouldn't work as well.

I wouldn't disagree with the idea of giving away wristbands at the panel but it would never work out schedule-wise. I think the WB has between 7-12 signings on Friday and Saturday. Their scheduling is always very tight for the signings. They would never be able to always schedule the signings after the panels. I suppose if they really tried to work it out, they could give away wristbands during panels if the signings came after the panel and then for signings that take place before the panel, they can have the cast/writers sign extra posters and dispense them at the panels and not bother trying to fill in for no-shows.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 30, 2018, 07:48:05 AM
Hey, I like that idea! Extra spaces mean extra posters signed to give away at the panels! That would be a good compromise,
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 30, 2018, 08:10:27 AM
Do we really think more than say 10% of winners aren't going to show up for big signings?
I mean sure unikitty winners may not show up...but to be honest I was in the unikitty line last year with traditional drawings and a lot of those people didn't show up for the signing either.

Just my opinion but if someone wins a BIG signing like Game of Thrones of Avengers....95%+ of them will actually show up and go to the signing. 
The smaller the signing, the less likely someone is going to be to abandon what ever it is they are doing to go to that signing mid-day.
But thats no different than before as I would say no one spent HOURS in line at the WB booth for a unikitty signing specifically, but if they got to the front and that was all that was left...they took it.  I still went to the signing as I had nothing else at the time, but clearly by the lack of those that showed up lots of other people abandoned their winnings.  Thats with the current system so I don't see why the new would be much different.

The biggest difference to me, is since they have a bracelet pick up time they would at least know in advance if people weren't coming.  From there I think it would be very smart for the separate companies to dispense them in non-standby ways.  Panels if possible would be great.  Maybe a worker discretely hands them to kids or fans that come by the booth in costume.  But  no matter what there will always be people trying to make "unofficial" standby lines, in current or possible future system scenarios.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on March 30, 2018, 08:49:02 AM
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But no matter what there will always be people trying to make "unofficial" standby lines, in current or possible future system scenarios.

This. This is the real problem, and the one CCI is the most reluctant to confront. They HAVE to be willing to shut down and disperse unofficial lines (for everything), or the rest of their policy is a joke.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 30, 2018, 09:54:24 AM
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Do we really think more than say 10% of winners aren't going to show up for big signings?

At WonderCon, there was approximately a 20% no-show for the two 'hottest' signings: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Ready Player One.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on March 30, 2018, 09:58:00 AM
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At WonderCon, there was approximately a 20% no-show for the two 'hottest' signings: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Ready Player One.
Do you think Agents of Shield would be even close to the top of the list for SDCC though? 

But even if we went with 20%, that means the lottery worked nice and smoothly for 80% winners. Not a bad percentage for the first trial.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: rushfanyyz on March 30, 2018, 10:36:10 AM
I do think one of the tweaks they could make is post the time of the signing when you are entering via the online draw. That way, once the schedule is out, you know if you won't go based on something else going on that is even more of a priority for you.  Because even if you otherwise would like to go to that signing, there could always be another thing that tops it.  Or if they don't know the time yet and have to post the winners, make there be a way to "release" your ticket so they can notify someone else they won (idea totally stolen from the UBlog's wrap up show). With the release my ticket option and notifying new winners, that could work up until day of even...and maybe even once wristband distribution has happened...although that would rely on good cell signal at the con, but better than nothing. Yes, not everyone would officially release their tickets and sometimes plan change in an instant, but maybe a few would be honest if they do know ahead of time and that would open it up to a few more people that will show up.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on March 30, 2018, 10:47:31 AM
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This. This is the real problem, and the one CCI is the most reluctant to confront. They HAVE to be willing to shut down and disperse unofficial lines (for everything), or the rest of their policy is a joke.
I mostly agree, but I think from a practical & logistics standpoint that's nearly impossible.  It's extremely difficult to get people to move off of public property (sidewalks downtown), and remember, the last time CCI tried to strictly enforce the "no unofficial lines" stuff a CCI attendee was killed sprinting across Harbor so she could move her stuff into the 'proper' line w/out losing her place. 
From a philosophical standpoint I 100% agree with you, but from a pragmatic standpoint I 100% understand why CCI is 'lax' on this policy
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on March 30, 2018, 11:01:58 AM
[member=380]perc2100[/member] I think it's a bit specious to connect that woman's death with CCI's line enforcement policy. She was racing back to join her group because the line was being moved - and it's not like the "official" lines are not also sometimes moved/condensed/etc.

I understand that line enforcement is a deeply intractable problem, but the fact remains that CCI has attempted basically zero solutions to it besides updating their official policy and then not following it. There are many things they have not tried, including: moving all lines to private property, such as inside Sails Pavilion or the Marriott Marina parking garage or a ballroom at MGH; being willing to revoke badges of people who refuse to comply with line policy (even easier now that they can just deactivate RFID); hiring enough security to actually police the lines and line policies.

Note: I am not claiming that any of these solutions would be the one true solution to solving the line problem. But CCI hasn't tried ANY of them. Instead they prefer to waive their hands and pretend the problem is the attendees, instead of their own total lack of enforcement.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angie on March 30, 2018, 03:01:19 PM
I hope they do fix things. I have outgrown the whole waiting in line for hours to draw a ticket thing and if I had a guaranteed ticket it would make things easier.

Its always been a many hour commitment to get autographs and when you put it all that time and the lines are all jacked up it is soooo frustrating.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 30, 2018, 04:13:55 PM
Alot of mixed comments, but guessing they will find if they try the online lottery at SDCC which is a bigger con then Wondercon i guessing they will see how good or bad it goes. i know they have their talk back panel sometime sunday but not sure what room or time i just read of it after con. just gotta try to choose all signings and panels possible so u get something out of all the craziness and not be mad u got none. maybe they will have a system where they make sure all seats are filled and not allow any more in room if all seats filled to not over fiill do to fire marshall random checks i guessing. i think the marshall would write a notice if they notice a room is too full as to say no space to move around cause so many try be at same panel. so guess they have staff to like police the panels at anytime.

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: tsnyder on March 30, 2018, 04:38:20 PM
I gotta be honest and I may be in the minority but my experience is CCI does a pretty great job with lines.  Now that I've been going for several years and have a understanding of all that is going on and the sheer logistics of how many amazing things are going on simultaneously I can't believe there aren't more issues.  There are tons of times I've been very irritated at the length of lines or realizing I couldn't do things I wanted to do due to the line taking hours but none of that has anything to do with CCI.  That is because there are 180K amazing geeks at the same place mostly wanting to do the same amazing things that are offered up at CCI.   

- Autographs and exclusives - First I am against having online lottery but will absolutely sign up for as many tries as I can should they make it a lottery.  If there are even the remotest possibility of standby wristbands if they do have lottery you won't be changing a thing because we all know that line will form and will be even more competitive as they are trying for a smaller amount of opportunities.  Line wise this is the only area I have issues with the way CCI has handled things and it has happened for several years.  They need to REALLY get a handle on what happens at the back of SAILS.  Each year I've followed the rules in the EE line and once we've gone through SAILS hundreds/thousands of people have magically gotten in front of us and basically blocked us out of FUNKO/Hasbro.  I can admit lottery would probably solve a lot of that just think it drastically reduces chances of a hard core fan of something getting their #1 SDCC priority.

- Hall H - I'm a big fan of the next day line and wristbands.  Understand some modification has to be made because of the counterfeits but I like the current system.  In my experience security has done a great job and was always communicative and helpful with out group.  I know there are people jumping in and cutting ahead of us but that isn't in our control.  I make friends with the groups ahead and behind us and know who should be were.  We have of course had slimy/disrespectful people try and jump in but have never had an issue getting them kicked out as we can identify everyone in our respective groups.

- Exhibit Hall - Yes the lines can suck for getting into some of the booths to buy or for the experiences but I'm always shocked how organized they are.  Having the extra lines against the walls with the signs showing what line is what and then being about to move people into the main line through the mass that is the exhibit floor is a crazy prospect. 

Offsites - Obviously those lines suck and I wish I could have gotten into Westworld and have never done GOT but hey CCI can't do anything about those.  Just too many people wanting to do them.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on March 31, 2018, 11:02:03 AM
I've said this countless times, I've emailed CCI with no response.
If you want to stop people sneaking into sails without being in the EE Line.
Give wristbands that say Everything Else Line Thursday etc this shows you were in the official line and entered via the front doors.
But they have ignored this suggestion for 2 years now.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on March 31, 2018, 01:46:25 PM
Im guessing they get plenty of feedback at their talkback panels at end of con. not sure who really checks the mail and how much they really try to do about what every mails to them and really note at anytime. wish there was a way to know if they really try and answer any feedback by doing or just pick and choose ideas they are told as to what they read by email and other ways. guess just gotta wait and see what happens later.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: susanml10881 on April 01, 2018, 05:50:21 PM

To be fair, they have broken up lines before and discouraged them but attendees are insistent and just kept reforming unofficial lines. They did that the first wristband year and they eventually gave up instead of fulfilling their warning they'd take away badges. They did break up and discourage lines at Wondercon but the crowds were much less.


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[member=380]perc2100[/member] I think it's a bit specious to connect that woman's death with CCI's line enforcement policy. She was racing back to join her group because the line was being moved - and it's not like the "official" lines are not also sometimes moved/condensed/etc.

I understand that line enforcement is a deeply intractable problem, but the fact remains that CCI has attempted basically zero solutions to it besides updating their official policy and then not following it. There are many things they have not tried, including: moving all lines to private property, such as inside Sails Pavilion or the Marriott Marina parking garage or a ballroom at MGH; being willing to revoke badges of people who refuse to comply with line policy (even easier now that they can just deactivate RFID); hiring enough security to actually police the lines and line policies.

Note: I am not claiming that any of these solutions would be the one true solution to solving the line problem. But CCI hasn't tried ANY of them. Instead they prefer to waive their hands and pretend the problem is the attendees, instead of their own total lack of enforcement.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: susanml10881 on April 01, 2018, 05:54:45 PM
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Do you think Agents of Shield would be even close to the top of the list for SDCC though? 

But even if we went with 20%, that means the lottery worked nice and smoothly for 80% winners. Not a bad percentage for the first trial.

But I wonder how many people entered though and got nothing? It would have gone badly for them.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on April 02, 2018, 08:11:01 AM
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[member=380]perc2100[/member] I think it's a bit specious to connect that woman's death with CCI's line enforcement policy. She was racing back to join her group because the line was being moved - and it's not like the "official" lines are not also sometimes moved/condensed/etc.

I understand that line enforcement is a deeply intractable problem, but the fact remains that CCI has attempted basically zero solutions to it besides updating their official policy and then not following it. There are many things they have not tried, including: moving all lines to private property, such as inside Sails Pavilion or the Marriott Marina parking garage or a ballroom at MGH; being willing to revoke badges of people who refuse to comply with line policy (even easier now that they can just deactivate RFID); hiring enough security to actually police the lines and line policies.

Note: I am not claiming that any of these solutions would be the one true solution to solving the line problem. But CCI hasn't tried ANY of them. Instead they prefer to waive their hands and pretend the problem is the attendees, instead of their own total lack of enforcement.
This is true, and I didn't intend to correlate the two explicitly (though I made that correlation in my post).
I think what I meant is that after that attendee death I suspect CCI is a lot more conservative in their enforcement of a black/white "no early lineups" policy.
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To be fair, they have broken up lines before and discouraged them but attendees are insistent and just kept reforming unofficial lines. They did that the first wristband year and they eventually gave up instead of fulfilling their warning they'd take away badges. They did break up and discourage lines at Wondercon but the crowds were much less.
I was soooo pissed off about that too!  That was the one year I slept overnight and I was really not happy about that breach of protocol.  I'm a punk rocker at heart: a rebellion who frequently tends to lean against hard authority.  But when it comes to SDCCI I'm a weird rule-follower and that change up like that really didn't sit well.  It all worked out for me, of course, but still upsetting!  Changing rules in the middle of the game at SDCCI is never an easy thing for me to accept.

I agree with tsnyder that CCI generally does a real good job with lines, and after talking with people over the years who have been organizing the lines and logistics of lines I think they generally nail it!  Tweaks are always necessary but I think they generally do really well
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on April 02, 2018, 09:33:22 AM
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I gotta be honest and I may be in the minority but my experience is CCI does a pretty great job with lines.   

Each year I've followed the rules in the EE line and once we've gone through SAILS hundreds/thousands of people have magically gotten in front of us and basically blocked us out of FUNKO/Hasbro. 

Edited down the post to clarify.  They do good with some lines, but your second line posted here is very obvious proof they don't do a "Good Job".
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on April 02, 2018, 09:49:12 AM
The problem with lines at SDCC is that so many different people are in charge of them. There are the security people, who are even from different companies, so they are not all on the same page. Then you have the CCI "staff" line control, which I know for a FACT are mostly people hired in from a temp service every year and get about a 30 minute training and are just Joe Schmoes that need some money and a job, but have no experience in line control or how to even handle or deal with problems. And THEN, you have the volunteers who they put on lines and they are even less trained (like not at all) on how to deal with people and line control and are just sent there and told to hold a sign.

They never hold to their rules once things get out of control and so no one obeys the rules anymore b/c they have learned that when you believe line control and disperse, you will in fact lose b/c soon after they will fold and let a line form or let people in......so, no one relents. And also, security is never on the same page. Some are incredibly lax and don't care while others are over the top ready to take people down. It's quite a mess and I think simply become too hard to control, there is literally not one single place with enough staff to handle this so everyone is well-trained and on the same page. As it is, all the different security companies bus people in from LA and surrounding areas and put them up in the dorms at SDSU to staff the con. It is a massive effort.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on April 02, 2018, 10:08:30 AM
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The problem with lines at SDCC is that so many different people are in charge of them. There are the security people, who are even from different companies, so they are not all on the same page. Then you have the CCI "staff" line control, which I know for a FACT are mostly people hired in from a temp service every year and get about a 30 minute training and are just Joe Schmoes that need some money and a job, but have no experience in line control or how to even handle or deal with problems. And THEN, you have the volunteers who they put on lines and they are even less trained (like not at all) on how to deal with people and line control and are just sent there and told to hold a sign.

They never hold to their rules once things get out of control and so no one obeys the rules anymore b/c they have learned that when you believe line control and disperse, you will in fact lose b/c soon after they will fold and let a line form or let people in......so, no one relents. And also, security is never on the same page. Some are incredibly lax and don't care while others are over the top ready to take people down. It's quite a mess and I think simply become too hard to control, there is literally not one single place with enough staff to handle this so everyone is well-trained and on the same page. As it is, all the different security companies bus people in from LA and surrounding areas and put them up in the dorms at SDSU to staff the con. It is a massive effort.
This is true, and true about most things in life: policy is pretty great but if the people implementing said policy fail then there are problems.  I agree that it's not uncommon for the security guys to not know what's going on (and to be the LAST ones who know about any changes, or even of policy in general).  Like tsnyder I've also had pretty good/better-than-average experience with CCI lines.  I have the mindset that the security guys are the least informed most of the time and I cut them slack.  I have a pretty laid back attitude about SDCCI nowadays so I think if you're generally pretty chill that helps too.  Last year in line for Hall H for there some issues at one point during the night/initial lineup for Saturday; I heard the group in front of us complain seemingly allllll day/evening about it.  That's no way to live through Comic-Con, IMO. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on April 02, 2018, 10:13:31 AM
I definitely agree that CCI tries, and I haven't had any problems while actually in the lines.

It's more that their non-enforcement of policy has allowed (and somewhat incentivized) the line formation to get to absurd levels. It kind of comes down to whether you think multiple-day lines are a problem in and of themselves - which, obviously, I do. But not everyone agrees.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on April 02, 2018, 11:17:31 AM
Alot of mixed comments and seeing how tech has advanced so much with flaws at anytime that wish they had way to use a scanner or scan gun to check everyone who in line to make sure no one cuts. cause it can be set to give a green for scanned or red for no scan to say the person cut in line sometime after they scanned everyone first round. i not sure exact what year they started allowing to have lines form and let anyone camp over nite in lines but seems it can all go right till they cause a hiccup and do things with out saying why in the first place. im sure everyone has their limits to how much bs they will take till they learn of how they can see panels on youtube or other later and how the swag can be bought as i have read or get later from others as a trade. so im guessing the whole line topic gonna be a major issue till they find a way to fix all the hassles at some point any year. the lottery thing might be the answer or maybe it wont. cause it will still be a mix of those who flip what they get and those who value and really keep what they get ea year.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on April 02, 2018, 12:16:59 PM
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Alot of mixed comments and seeing how tech has advanced so much with flaws at anytime that wish they had way to use a scanner or scan gun to check everyone who in line to make sure no one cuts. cause it can be set to give a green for scanned or red for no scan to say the person cut in line sometime after they scanned everyone first round. i not sure exact what year they started allowing to have lines form and let anyone camp over nite in lines but seems it can all go right till they cause a hiccup and do things with out saying why in the first place. im sure everyone has their limits to how much bs they will take till they learn of how they can see panels on youtube or other later and how the swag can be bought as i have read or get later from others as a trade. so im guessing the whole line topic gonna be a major issue till they find a way to fix all the hassles at some point any year. the lottery thing might be the answer or maybe it wont. cause it will still be a mix of those who flip what they get and those who value and really keep what they get ea year.
I'll say this:
1) the footage isn't always on youtube after.  Marvel notoriously withholds their footage.  I still have not see the Spider-Man Homecoming teaser they showed a few years back that was set up like a John Hughes HS comedy; or the Ant-Man & The Wasp footage from last year that was Michael Pena, in character as Luis for the most part, recapping the MCU history to Michelle Pfeiffer.
2) it's incredibly hard to describe the vibe/atmosphere of Hall H and Ballroom 20 if one hasn't experienced it.  The excitement is ELECTRIC in that room: some people can do w/out it, but some love that thrill.
3) waiting in super long lines and camping out in Hall H or Ballroom 20 all day is a legit fun experience IMO.  Meeting new people, catching up with people from a year or two ago, etc. is never a negative for me personally
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on April 02, 2018, 12:49:41 PM
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3) waiting in super long lines and camping out in Hall H or Ballroom 20 all day is a legit fun experience IMO.  Meeting new people, catching up with people from a year or two ago, etc. is never a negative for me personally
I would just say this is the thing.  Some people like standing in line all day....other people don't want to.  This is why I have only been in Hall H on Sunday when there is no line.  I would LOVE to check out more panels, but I am not going to waste a day I have a badge for just sitting outside in line. That all being said, I don't see the lotteries being for panels any time soon.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on April 02, 2018, 01:25:26 PM
Exactly. I have been in Hall H for some very big panels in the past and I agree with [member=380]perc2100[/member] that the feel of being in the room is electric and unique; watching the panels online later (even if you get to see the whole thing, which is rare) just doesn't compare.

But I refuse to give up an ENTIRE day that I paid for - with other things going on that I also love and want to see - to sit in line all day. So at this point that means I'll never see another Marvel Studios panel again. IMO, that makes the Hall H process very broken.

At this point I'm team lottery for everything, because it seems like the only shot at fairness. (Except for ruthlessly efficient line control, which I think we all agree CCI is just never going to do.)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on April 02, 2018, 07:11:05 PM
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I definitely agree that CCI tries, and I haven't had any problems while actually in the lines.

It's more that their non-enforcement of policy has allowed (and somewhat incentivized) the line formation to get to absurd levels. It kind of comes down to whether you think multiple-day lines are a problem in and of themselves - which, obviously, I do. But not everyone agrees.

They ARE a problem and if CCI really did start taking badges, it would end right quick. They truly do not want to take badges though. They really do want people to be there and they love their attendees, but it is time to make good on the threat of removing badges b/c their bluff has been called and it should no longer be a bluff. It will work. People won't risk losing their badge.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: perc2100 on April 03, 2018, 08:11:30 AM
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I would just say this is the thing.  Some people like standing in line all day....other people don't want to.  This is why I have only been in Hall H on Sunday when there is no line.  I would LOVE to check out more panels, but I am not going to waste a day I have a badge for just sitting outside in line. That all being said, I don't see the lotteries being for panels any time soon.
Yeah, I TOTALLY get that.  I found a system in past years that is kind of the best of both worlds. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on April 03, 2018, 10:54:32 AM
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I'll say this:
1) the footage isn't always on youtube after.  Marvel notoriously withholds their footage.  I still have not see the Spider-Man Homecoming teaser they showed a few years back that was set up like a John Hughes HS comedy; or the Ant-Man & The Wasp footage from last year that was Michael Pena, in character as Luis for the most part, recapping the MCU history to Michelle Pfeiffer.
2) it's incredibly hard to describe the vibe/atmosphere of Hall H and Ballroom 20 if one hasn't experienced it.  The excitement is ELECTRIC in that room: some people can do w/out it, but some love that thrill.
3) waiting in super long lines and camping out in Hall H or Ballroom 20 all day is a legit fun experience IMO.  Meeting new people, catching up with people from a year or two ago, etc. is never a negative for me personally

I still remember back when the 3rd terminator movie came out , they had a panel and at some point they said the terminator was coming out by chance and i thought it was maybe one of the motorized robot from the movie lol. but nope it was Arnold and the crowd went crazy and he said i told u i be back and gave a laugh or chuckle so that was so cool that time. like others have said i too wont waste a day in line since now i can volunteer for chance to check out con ea year. i may try check out panels sunday one said since no lines, so anything possible.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on April 04, 2018, 03:15:17 PM
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The problem with lines at SDCC is that so many different people are in charge of them. There are the security people, who are even from different companies, so they are not all on the same page. Then you have the CCI "staff" line control, which I know for a FACT are mostly people hired in from a temp service every year and get about a 30 minute training and are just Joe Schmoes that need some money and a job, but have no experience in line control or how to even handle or deal with problems. And THEN, you have the volunteers who they put on lines and they are even less trained (like not at all) on how to deal with people and line control and are just sent there and told to hold a sign.

They never hold to their rules once things get out of control and so no one obeys the rules anymore b/c they have learned that when you believe line control and disperse, you will in fact lose b/c soon after they will fold and let a line form or let people in......so, no one relents. And also, security is never on the same page. Some are incredibly lax and don't care while others are over the top ready to take people down. It's quite a mess and I think simply become too hard to control, there is literally not one single place with enough staff to handle this so everyone is well-trained and on the same page. As it is, all the different security companies bus people in from LA and surrounding areas and put them up in the dorms at SDSU to staff the con. It is a massive effort.

I definitely think this is where majority of their problem suffers. I want to say it's not sdcc being unable to try new things and solve a problem.. They have a decent system set up, if everything works as planned. But it doesn't, it's often lost in translation and things consistently go wrong in different areas.. Any solution is simply lost when they have all of these temporary workers break code and make vital, frustrating mistakes. Attendees know that you have to con the system in order to get an edge, and while the system at its base is set up to be fair, it relies so heavily on the honor system. When you have staff that are not properly trained to handle and enforce these situations, as I'm sure they want to keep angry attendees as happy as possible, people will take advantage of the holes in the system. The secret lines.. giant parties joining a new friend in the ada line, swindling with security in the back to get into sails before opening.. Cutting in general. It's so frequent. If they can't trust their employees to not be the weak link in a system, you need to add another element to act as an extra layer of security that can bar those who purposefully slip through the cracks and cheat.

I want to say the next solution to cut out cutters in the sails is to wristband those in the EE line.. but then we have situations like last year where people printed out Hall H wristbands and locked out a large portion of actual wristbanded attendees. Another solution is.. well.. In my opinion it would be really obvious when a line other than the actual line reaches you.. But then again, staff enforcement failure. The best you might be able to do is ensure your staff is honestly well prepared before trying to fill existing holes in the process.

As for the possibility of an online lottery itself? I definitely agree with what DRWHO said early on. Putting it online ensures everyone gets a chance, sure, but it also DRASTICALLY lowers your odds by increasing the pool tenfold. While it helps all genuine fans have a chance without the need for waiting or lines, it adds an option for many thousands of attendees who enter because "why not", or that perhaps rather sell than appreciate the value on their own because it wasn't much out of their day to obtain. With this system, it at least limits it to those who are willing to put in the effort, eliminating an enormous chunk of those that would sweep through and enter if it were truly low effort. I much prefer a system where you actually have a say in your odds, given you were willing to help yourself as much as possible. I get the argument of "I would never lose a day of my con just to get this", it's the sole reason I don't go for any Hall H panels nor many exclusives, but at the same time.. I'm happy the option IS there if I truly want to achieve that during a rare opportunity. And you dont truly have to lose a day either, since they've enacted the shift system. Now for Hall H... I dont think they can truly ever move to an online lottery unless they begin clearing the room OR do a lottery for an entire day's attendance.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on April 05, 2018, 04:21:50 AM
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Now for Hall H... I dont think they can truly ever move to an online lottery unless they begin clearing the room OR do a lottery for an entire day's attendance.

One idea I have pondered is to clear the room once in the middle of the day--essentially turning the day into two days.  People would be forced to choose between Session I and Session II.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on April 06, 2018, 01:19:52 PM
people are worried about people selling there  loto winnings
1. attach it to your member ID and name
2. use RFID  plus  wrist band
3. punish those who cheat , they lose their badge- suck to be the cheater
all the autographs and exclusives are big business and big $$$$ this draws a lot of cheaters
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on April 06, 2018, 01:42:55 PM
I think the fake Hall H wrist bands took the cake last year.... for the most creative way to cheat..follow by the annual sneaking through the backdoor in the marina...
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on April 06, 2018, 04:14:27 PM
Yea, with how things happend last year with fake bands and all, they discovered some was desparate enough to get in and found way to make bands look legit some how till those who had real ones saw or noticed some how they was fake and it stopped the whole train kinda and left many waiting and missed alot. lucky sdcc was told right away and not delayed that those who had been screwed over had i guess badges scanned to be comped or given free  badge for pn and and rest of week free do to what the baddies did and got caught.

Atleast the staff told the higher ups right away and didnt take forever to get it sorted. so i can see that sdcc got hi ratiings for fixing the problem and telling those who was affected what they was gonna get for the headaches and not go hating on the con cause of baddies caused all the crap to ruin the fun.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on April 06, 2018, 06:09:57 PM
We're fake bands ever really confirmed? All I've seen are rumors, hearsay, and a grainy video of someone holding bands that someone filming claimed were fake.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on April 06, 2018, 08:29:55 PM
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Yea, with how things happend last year with fake bands and all, they discovered some was desparate enough to get in and found way to make bands look legit some how till those who had real ones saw or noticed some how they was fake and it stopped the whole train kinda and left many waiting and missed alot. lucky sdcc was told right away and not delayed that those who had been screwed over had i guess badges scanned to be comped or given free  badge for pn and and rest of week free do to what the baddies did and got caught.

Atleast the staff told the higher ups right away and didnt take forever to get it sorted. so i can see that sdcc got hi ratiings for fixing the problem and telling those who was affected what they was gonna get for the headaches and not go hating on the con cause of baddies caused all the crap to ruin the fun.

listening to the talkback panel https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/index.php?topic=8590.msg218394#msg218394

minutes 27-40, 1:25-1:31, and 1:49-1:56.

gives anecdotes of that Hall H line experience and some thoughts on the level of communication during that event.

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We're fake bands ever really confirmed? All I've seen are rumors, hearsay, and a grainy video of someone holding bands that someone filming claimed were fake.

Mentioned in response as being quite possible (at the panel around 16-18 minute mark), but not taking that as a complete confirmation.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: tsnyder on April 06, 2018, 08:45:15 PM
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We're fake bands ever really confirmed? All I've seen are rumors, hearsay, and a grainy video of someone holding bands that someone filming claimed were fake.
I personally saw a person with a fake wristband. My group was half A and half B as we were at that exact point. In the morning in the chutes a person tried to squeeze by to "meet his group". We asked to see his band which he was very hesitant then he showed us his B band which was an off color and not the same as ours. I just thought maybe it got washed or something and we wouldn't let him by because it was impossible he was meeting his group as there were no more B people in front of us. He admitted he was lying and took off behind us. Then inside when we heard about the fakes and saw the videos realized his was one of the fakes.

Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on April 06, 2018, 09:08:31 PM
Yea, i saw a video recording looking from a cell showing the boss guy i guess saying they was told about the bands and thats when he promised the free badges and pn to those affected. guessing they knew if they didnt fix it right then that news was gonna get around fast in so many ways. also read somebody say they saw somebody grab bunch of fake bands from a pack or bag as if was real and gave to their group as if was real at the time.

all this happend sometime during con, i not sure what day but somewhere between thurs and sunday. and news and video was posted on facebook somewhere around same time i think cause didnt check what day i saw or read the news. so guessing it went viral and fast .

found this of video saw and read was 4 free days those affected but thought as pn included but check vid https://twitter.com/carriehudson/status/888872401785675776

i checkd before posting and video link works
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: susanml10881 on April 07, 2018, 07:49:39 PM
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We're fake bands ever really confirmed? All I've seen are rumors, hearsay, and a grainy video of someone holding bands that someone filming claimed were fake.

I thought it was. CCI gave them comp badges this year. That sucked and was pretty terrible of people. I don't put anything past people at con anymore
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on April 07, 2018, 09:00:14 PM
Badges could be given out to appease people, but it doesn't necessarily prove anything. Neither does one off-color band or a video of someone from CCI admitting that they heard the same rumors.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on April 08, 2018, 10:50:10 AM
Im guessing till they can find a solid solution to prevent so to speak baddies from trying to ruin the fun of anything, it may happen again in others ways just not sure how till read about or see vids about it any.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicskyline on April 18, 2018, 04:29:57 PM
Coming into this discussion late, but maybe a suggestion could be to limit the amount of signing lotteries a person is allowed to try for? This would discourage people from just signing up for everything and then discarding those they didn't really want. Then hopefully more people who actually want to attend will get the opportunity, since it will strengthen their odds.  I don't think this is unfair either, since the old way would limit the amount of signings you could try for because of the time commitment involved in waiting in line. Since at SDCC, we're talking potentially dozens and dozens of signings, if you can only enter, I don't know, say five or ten, you'd really think through your choice.

Then perhaps the less popular properties that didn't get their ticket allocation used up could open up to anyone the day of the signing. So, to reuse the example, if Unikitty had open slots because not enough people picked it in their top ten, then it could open up again on the day of the signing for anyone, regardless of how many lotteries they've signed up for previously. Similar to a standby line, but done online or through the CCI app maybe. I'm sure there's some problem in that plan that I'm missing, but it seems like an option worth considering.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 16, 2018, 01:18:46 PM
Looking more and more like an online lottery for stuff!!!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 16, 2018, 01:23:21 PM
Some interesting stuff: http://sdccblog.com/2018/05/signs-point-to-san-diego-comic-con-2018-utilizing-online-lottery-for-autograph-system/ (http://sdccblog.com/2018/05/signs-point-to-san-diego-comic-con-2018-utilizing-online-lottery-for-autograph-system/)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on May 16, 2018, 01:28:12 PM
Woohoo... Too bad Marvel is not included in this...
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 16, 2018, 01:29:45 PM
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Woohoo... Too bad Marvel is not included in this...

I would literally do anything to make Marvel part of this. After the year I lined up at 7PM the night before, was 10th in line for the show floor, and didn't even get a chance to DRAW because exhibitors had already filled 95% of the line - never again.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Jason on May 16, 2018, 01:30:45 PM
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Woohoo... Too bad Marvel is not included in this...

Are you sure Marvel isn't part of this? Wasn't Agents of SHIELD part of the Wondercon raffle?

We had already decided to stop SDCC after this year, but this would really do it for me. I spend too much money there to come home without any autographs, and this system ensures that will happen.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 16, 2018, 01:33:18 PM
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Are you sure Marvel isn't part of this? Wasn't Agents of SHIELD part of the Wondercon raffle?

We had already decided to stop SDCC after this year, but this would really do it for me. I spend too much money there to come home without any autographs, and this system ensures that will happen.

The difference, though, is ABC/Marvel was always part of the regular WonderCon lotto draws. They aren't at SDCC. That's why we think it will be different.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 16, 2018, 01:44:09 PM
I have officially lowered my expectations for my autograph targets for the con. I am not a fan of online lotteries.

The offset will be seen on the other lines now.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: marvelmorris on May 16, 2018, 01:48:03 PM
I can say more about this, but I’ll say it’s disappointing and frustrating. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: darlenealderson on May 16, 2018, 01:59:42 PM
I'm kinda excited about this, because I have bad memories from waiting overnight and being denied the chance to line up for tickets due to exhibitors flooding the queues (Legendary booth). Or you know, they could enforce a no exhibitors policy.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SDCCgal2015 on May 16, 2018, 02:01:16 PM
I think if they do it properly maybe it could work. Like giving you a limit on how many autographs you can try for so hat people don’t just try for them all just because they can.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 16, 2018, 02:02:38 PM
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Woohoo... Too bad Marvel is not included in this...
Doesn't say they aren't...I would say its pretty likely it will be.
But only time will tell.
I'm so excited!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 16, 2018, 02:04:38 PM
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Doesn't say they aren't...I would say its pretty likely it will be.
But only time will tell.
I'm so excited!

We REALLY don't think so. They've never been part of the Sails drawings before, they just do their own thing. No reason to think that part's changing.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: darlenealderson on May 16, 2018, 02:05:46 PM
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I think if they do it properly maybe it could work. Like giving you a limit on how many autographs you can try for so hat people don’t just try for them all just because they can.
They could assign you 10 entries or so, and you could decide how to 'spend' them. You could use all on one or one on ten different signings.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on May 16, 2018, 02:06:12 PM
Hahah, whew. I feel like my hopes and chances for high profile autographs just went out the window. Given I'll still try... but so will the entire convention. I understand why the general populous is excited for this change, but now it feels like one of the hundreds of other "never win" giveaways that people enter online for "why not" reasons. Just a pipe dream.

Ahh well, what can you do. At least you'll know in advance so you won't have to wait for sails.


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I think if they do it properly maybe it could work. Like giving you a limit on how many autographs you can try for so hat people don’t just try for them all just because they can.
Not a bad idea. I wonder if there will be other limits to the algorithm, although it'd hurt if being picked for one essentially strikes you out for another you may have wanted to win. Or perhaps there's a lucky chance you can win all of your entries... Either way, I'm down for anything that strikes the "why not" entries.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: AzT on May 16, 2018, 02:17:09 PM
Accessible the same way as the WonderCon portal, through member ID? Not seeing it through member ID, noticed and taken down?

("Access Denied" wall from original instructions link https://www.comic-con.org/toucan/08-exclusive-signings-wondercon-anaheim-2018 )
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on May 16, 2018, 02:20:25 PM
My changes just increased from 0 to 1/130,00, so I am happy with this.

Does anyone know if these are transferable? Is it something we can set up a trading post for? Like, "I got Gotham, but really would prefer the Flash. Who wants to trade?" Are member IDs checked in the autograph line? Or are wristbands given out that can somehow be swapped?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SDCCgal2015 on May 16, 2018, 02:25:14 PM
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My changes just increased from 0 to 1/130,00, so I am happy with this.

Does anyone know if these are transferable? Is it something we can set up a trading post for? Like, "I got Gotham, but really would prefer the Flash. Who wants to trade?" Are member IDs checked in the autograph line? Or are wristbands given out that can somehow be swapped?

No they were not trasferable
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 16, 2018, 02:31:37 PM
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Accessible the same way as the WonderCon portal, through member ID? Not seeing it through member ID, noticed and taken down?

("Access Denied" wall from original instructions link https://www.comic-con.org/toucan/08-exclusive-signings-wondercon-anaheim-2018 )

That wasn't where it was, no - but it's been locked down anyway now. All the screenshots are on our site though.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on May 16, 2018, 02:41:10 PM
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No they were not trasferable

Thank you! I'll just have to tell my daughter that I get to meet Grant Gustin, and she doesn't...  >:D
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on May 16, 2018, 02:43:43 PM
I'm cautiously optimistic.  I think more people should have the chance to get autographs for the big name shows and movies that come to do signings.  But as DRWHO42 has said, the people who lined up early for the autographs will now disperse to other areas of the con, making the overall impact a question mark.

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They could assign you 10 entries or so, and you could decide how to 'spend' them. You could use all on one or one on ten different signings.

I like this idea, but I would modify it by limiting to just once per signing with a limit of like 6 for the whole con, forcing people to decide which signings they would really like to go after.  Does anyone think they will do this for all signings or just for the really big properties (Game of Thrones, Westworld, Supernatural etc)?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on May 16, 2018, 02:46:37 PM
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No they were not trasferable

Good! Not Transferable Means not "Ebayable".. Is that a word? ???
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SDCCgal2015 on May 16, 2018, 03:02:40 PM
Well hopefully someone from the comic con organization reads thinbfgs posted online and stuff and takes the suggestions I also emailed CC as well haha
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 16, 2018, 03:03:25 PM
I will state for the record again that the excessively long line is caused primarily by the drawings occurring in the AM before the center opens. IF they stuck to holding drawings in small batches during the day (as they did a few years ago) a good portion of the line and the need for camping would be reduced.

If they held drawings for example at 10am , noon, and 2pm it would give attendees a choice to either wait in the line, go the the EH, or go to a panel.

If one wanted to spend their entire day waiting in line for autographs that is their choice. Their efforts may or may not be rewarded but they made the choice and committed their time for a chance to meet their desire cast, director, or actor(s).

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2018, 03:15:57 PM
I've never done autographs because choosing between autos and panels was a no brainer. I'd rather see the panels. BUT given the easier chance to do autos without sacrificing a panel means I can actually try this year.  Legion and Westworld are the only things I'd likely be interested in (that I can think of so far) so if those are part of this, I'm all about this,
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 16, 2018, 03:25:27 PM
My guess is that this will include anything that you drew for in the morning in Sails so WB, Fox, DC, Lego, Funko, Bandai, Hasbro

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: vegasndn on May 16, 2018, 03:35:12 PM
After many years of waiting in everything else line I told family we’ve done enough autographs though the years I’m done I want to sleep in bed I’ve paid for, now if they I put in lottery hey count us back in the game.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2018, 03:41:30 PM
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My guess is that this will include anything that you drew for in the morning in Sails so WB, Fox, DC, Lego, Funko, Bandai, Hasbro

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

As I've never wanted to sacrifice the panels I have no idea if FX and HBO are part of this.  Anyone know?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on May 16, 2018, 03:45:04 PM
I hope CCI has taken note of the issues that cropped up at WonderCon and has addressed them.

For those interested in how the online lotteries played out at WonderCon, see this article.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/27/online-lotteries-in-action-at-wondercon-2018/
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mlgagne on May 16, 2018, 03:52:54 PM
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As I've never wanted to sacrifice the panels I have no idea if FX and HBO are part of this.  Anyone know?

HBO drawings are handled by WB, so I'd say it's likely! I'm not sure which booth handled FX last year, but someone here might ;)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on May 16, 2018, 04:03:29 PM
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I hope CCI has taken note of the issues that cropped up at WonderCon and has addressed them.

For those interested in how the online lotteries played out at WonderCon, see this article.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2018/03/27/online-lotteries-in-action-at-wondercon-2018/

I wonder if they'll find a better solution to the unclaimed bands/standby issue in particular. Seems a little counter-intuitive.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: jamiesugah on May 16, 2018, 04:16:33 PM
They should do what they do at NYCC and load them onto your badge.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2018, 04:17:04 PM
So where is this mysterious lottery portal? I tried to check my online member ID account and it's closed for maintenance.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on May 16, 2018, 04:26:58 PM
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Good! Not Transferable Means not "Ebayable".. Is that a word? ???

Maybe not the wristband, but the posters will certainly be (although they always have been).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 16, 2018, 04:34:57 PM
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As I've never wanted to sacrifice the panels I have no idea if FX and HBO are part of this.  Anyone know?
FX shows are Fox. The HBO shows are always at WB. I warn, doing autograph or panel will still usually need to be a choice. Most autograph are either right before or right after the panel. So if it's before you can't do both, if it's after you can try to book it to autograph, but you give up your panel room. I don't feel there is time to do it on a bathroom pass

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on May 16, 2018, 04:35:30 PM
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I wonder if they'll find a better solution to the unclaimed bands/standby issue in particular. Seems a little counter-intuitive.

That's my main concern with the system ... I can't see standby lines working with the WB signings.  I imagine the 'big' signings at WB wouldn't have many unused wristbands, but I'm sure there would still be some.  And having standby for some signings but not all will just be a mess, because people will still try to hang around the booth 'just in case' a standby line opens up. 

I also don't see it improving the line situation either.  The Funko line at sails is always insane and from what I hear each year, one of the main ones that attract line cutters from the marina. Funko does a lottery for ECCC, but from things they have said in the past, it sounded like SDCC wouldn't let them have a online lottery?  (although I guess that could also now change).  But there will still be lego / hasbro / B20 / exhibit floor -  I can't see Marvel / AMC / Starz etc that usually have drawings on the floor changing - and they are some of the main ones that have issues due to exhibitors getting in early etc.     
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: AzT on May 16, 2018, 04:36:13 PM
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So where is this mysterious lottery portal? I tried to check my online member ID account and it's closed for maintenance.

Probably to really shut down however it was available :P

Member ID system access restored; for WonderCon, portal went live within member ID "Exclusives" tab https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/index.php?topic=9061.msg229931#msg229931
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2018, 04:44:53 PM
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I warn, doing autograph or panel will still usually need to be a choice. Most autograph are either right before or right after the panel.

Don't break my heart with reality like this Mel </3

I usually don't do the Westworld panel because I only have the energy to do Ballroom 20 or Hall H once per year.  More than that will wear me out.  So that's not a problem.  Legion tho...  Legion will be a problem.  I essentially devoted all of SDCC last year to Legion.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 16, 2018, 07:40:56 PM
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My guess is that this will include anything that you drew for in the morning in Sails so WB, Fox, DC, Lego, Funko, Bandai, Hasbro

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

It looks like from what sdcc blog screen shots showed it’s strictly autographs and merchandise. Merch as in SDCC branded stuff. I’d bet in future years you are right but they’re taking baby steps.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 16, 2018, 07:42:36 PM
Also what’s the rules with autographs is it whatever you want? Or specific items only. I ask because having my legion MONDo poster signed would be dope as heck


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angology on May 16, 2018, 07:45:38 PM
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Also what’s the rules with autographs is it whatever you want? Or specific items only. I ask because having my legion MONDo poster signed would be dope as heck


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They usually provide the poster, and don't allow outside items for show/movie sessions. Sessions like Jim Lee and other comic artist signings allowed outside items.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on May 16, 2018, 08:05:00 PM
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Also what’s the rules with autographs is it whatever you want? Or specific items only. I ask because having my legion MONDo poster signed would be dope as heck


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They usually provide the poster, and don't allow outside items for show/movie sessions. Sessions like Jim Lee and other comic artist signings allowed outside items.

WB is super strict, I actually saw someone get kicked out of the flash signing last year because they tried to get Grant Gustin to sign an action figure. 

Fox (which I assume Legion will be at since it is an FX show) is slightly less strict, but the rule is they provide the poster and you aren't meant to get anything else signed.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Sakura17 on May 16, 2018, 08:45:09 PM
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Well hopefully someone from the comic con organization reads thinbfgs posted online and stuff and takes the suggestions I also emailed CC as well haha

What did u suggest to CC?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on May 16, 2018, 10:11:52 PM
I wonder if this is actually SDCC's way of reducing lines so they don't have to deal with the onsite demands this always entails.  They're pretty bad keeping things in order with the normal Everything Else line.  By doing the online lottery, they eliminate so many of the small autograph/exclusive lines that fill up the Sails in the early part of the morning.  By eliminating the need to staff these, they can put more of their staff, security and other resources to maintaining the Hall H and Everything Else lines.

Just a thought anyways.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 17, 2018, 07:07:56 AM
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It looks like from what sdcc blog screen shots showed it’s strictly autographs and merchandise. Merch as in SDCC branded stuff. I’d bet in future years you are right but they’re taking baby steps.


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At WonderCon it was strictly WonderCon merch, but WonderCon doesn't have exclusive madness like SDCC. What screenshot made you think they would not include things like Funko or Lego? Was it the one with the old verbiage leftover from WonderCon that hasn't been updated?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 17, 2018, 07:41:10 AM
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At WonderCon it was strictly WonderCon merch, but WonderCon doesn't have exclusive madness like SDCC. What screenshot made you think they would not include things like Funko or Lego? Was it the one with the old verbiage leftover from WonderCon that hasn't been updated?
yeah to me the screenshots I saw very much made it look like there would be some merchandise vendors going this route.  As much as Funko has been asking for it and using it at other cons, I can't see them not using it the first chance they got.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Totorozzz on May 17, 2018, 07:55:27 AM
Does anyone know how this will work for children?  They don't technically have a badge.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 17, 2018, 07:55:48 AM
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yeah to me the screenshots I saw very much made it look like there would be some merchandise vendors going this route.  As much as Funko has been asking for it and using it at other cons, I can't see them not using it the first chance they got.

In the past, CCI has used an online portal for their own merch. We think that's what this is again. We really don't think they'd try out a new system for both exclusives AND autographs in the same year. Better to do one, make sure it doesn't break Comic-Con, and then expand.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 17, 2018, 07:58:00 AM
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Does anyone know how this will work for children?  They don't technically have a badge.

Only those 13 and older could sign up at WonderCon. Those younger could accompany an adult with a wristband. But as always, your mileage may vary, depending on the security and their knowledge.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: rabbitwarren on May 17, 2018, 08:38:13 AM
I'm not exactly thrilled with the idea of a lottery either but the lines have become unmanageable and that's spilling into the neighborhood.  Last year was the first time I went to the con in a while and I had noticed a big difference in the lines.  Before, overnight was if you just wanted a good seat.  Saturday Hall H had gotten to the point where you had to start camping out on Tuesday to even get in.  I get that things should go to those who want them most but I also get that nobody wants a situation to devolve where the Hall H line spills over to Little Italy for the entire week. 

I think the best system would be to have an Epic room where people can choose what they want, being limited to 3 or 4 choices for the ENTIRE con. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 17, 2018, 08:47:50 AM
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I'm not exactly thrilled with the idea of a lottery either but the lines have become unmanageable and that's spilling into the neighborhood.  Last year was the first time I went to the con in a while and I had noticed a big difference in the lines.  Before, overnight was if you just wanted a good seat.  Saturday Hall H had gotten to the point where you had to start camping out on Tuesday to even get in.  I get that things should go to those who want them most but I also get that nobody wants a situation to devolve where the Hall H line spills over to Little Italy for the entire week. 

I think the best system would be to have an Epic room where people can choose what they want, being limited to 3 or 4 choices for the ENTIRE con.

I think it's really important to remember that the con organizers also don't want you to spend your entire time in line. This is a problem that CCI truly wants to solve the riddle of. They know that line culture is a thing at Comic-Con, but they still don't want you to spend half your time in a line. What organizer possibly would? Even if it's by choice, that's time you're not spending enjoying the thing that the vendors and the panelists are putting on. That's why they moved Preregistration to online - people were losing half a day or a whole day just waiting to buy a badge for the next year. So really, the people who do keep pushing line up earlier and earlier and earlier aren't just the ones who "want it more" - they're also the ones who are putting at risk changing the entire system they love.

And I say that as someone who has never gone a year without camping out at Comic-Con at least one night, but it does just seem to get earlier and earlier. The line has to be drawn somewhere. And frankly, while I'm normally very anti-lottery, I appreciate that CCI doesn't want you to wait hours and hours in line... especially for something that's very far from a guarantee, has been met with a LOT of line issues in general in recent years, etc.

There's no easy fix to any of this, but for the greater good, I think this is a change for the better. The fact that it was always a lottery, and you risked camping out just to find out you didn't win even if you were #1 in line, to me, is reason enough to give CCI a thumbs up for this one (but yo, CCI, please make some changes from the WonderCon version of this).

TL;DR
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on May 17, 2018, 08:55:42 AM
i think if CCI added Hasbro, funko to the loto system they could better use there staff  in hall H or elsewhere, i think staff allocation  is the most important factor, CCi may not have the staff to deal with mega lines
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on May 17, 2018, 09:05:20 AM
I can't stand the people that keep saying well it was always a lottery.
It makes zero sense to compare me pulling a ticket in the morning at WB then also getting to pull at Fox where I'd have above a 50/50 chance of getting a autograph signing each day. To me having probably less than 1 percent chance now.
Make the huge Hall H line which has people camping for days, a lottery, that's the worst of all the lines anyway.
Last year I was late trying to get from my hotel the Hilton Bayfront to the Sails pavilion, I was walking quickly along the boardwalk but there were people camped out everywhere, and this was around noon. Some guy shouted not to walk through their camp, I didn't know that was a no go camp area I'm just seeing a mess of stuff and people and I'm just trying to walk.
Make everything a lottery then it's fair. But I see some people are happy as long as their favorite thing is not a lottery.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 17, 2018, 09:05:34 AM
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In the past, CCI has used an online portal for their own merch. We think that's what this is again. We really don't think they'd try out a new system for both exclusives AND autographs in the same year. Better to do one, make sure it doesn't break Comic-Con, and then expand.
Why do you keep saying WE?  It sounds very regal. Or Borg-ish.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 17, 2018, 09:06:11 AM
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Why do you keep saying WE?  It sounds very regal. Or Borg-ish.

"We" = SDCCBlog.com. When it's my opinion, I (Kerry) say I. When it's the blog's stance, I say we. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: CathexisZero on May 17, 2018, 09:17:51 AM
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i think if CCI added Hasbro, funko to the loto system they could better use there staff  in hall H or elsewhere, i think staff allocation  is the most important factor, CCi may not have the staff to deal with mega lines

Does Hasbro necessarily need a lottery to manage their exclusive lines?  IIRC they only needed tickets for Thursday or Friday this year, and by Saturday you could just walk up to get stuff from their booth?

I think I like this change.  I do like the idea that I can know ahead of time which shows I can try to get autographs for and...well, try (The Gifted, Legends of Tomorrow, and GOT) without feeling like I've wasted a VERY expensive hotel room if I camp out overnight and then either don't get to the front of the line in time/lose the lottery.  I'd rather the lines be used for panels or empty-ish exhibitor hall access. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 17, 2018, 09:19:43 AM
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I can't stand the people that keep saying well it was always a lottery.
It makes zero sense to compare me pulling a ticket in the morning at WB then also getting to pull at Fox where I'd have above a 50/50 chance of getting a autograph signing each day. To me having probably less than 1 percent chance now.
Make the huge Hall H line which has people camping for days, a lottery, that's the worst of all the lines anyway.
Last year I was late trying to get from my hotel the Hilton Bayfront to the Sails pavilion, I was walking quickly along the boardwalk but there were people camped out everywhere, and this was around noon. Some guy shouted not to walk through their camp, I didn't know that was a no go camp area I'm just seeing a mess of stuff and people and I'm just trying to walk.
Make everything a lottery then it's fair. But I see some people are happy as long as their favorite thing is not a lottery.
I agree.

I also agree “the back” has become increasingly more crowded and walking through the area has been hectic in the last two years because you have to navigate around the people who are camped out.

Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 17, 2018, 09:20:34 AM
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"We" = SDCCBlog.com. When it's my opinion, I (Kerry) say I. When it's the blog's stance, I say we. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
OK, just not sure how we (lower case we representing all members who don't know you) are suppose to know that! That being said I know keeping rack of which pronouns people prefer to use these days is getting trickier and trickier!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on May 17, 2018, 09:27:58 AM
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"We" = SDCCBlog.com. When it's my opinion, I (Kerry) say I. When it's the blog's stance, I say we. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Don't mess with lawboysam.. He is the bread and butter to lots of intel at Comic Con hehe  :P
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on May 17, 2018, 09:31:19 AM
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Don't mess with lawboysam.. He is the bread and butter to lots of intel at Comic Con hehe  :P

She. :P Username is an ooooold holdover from an old fandom. But everyone can call me whatever they want, honey badger don't care. Can we get back to complaining about autographs though?!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on May 17, 2018, 09:34:52 AM
I have a dream.. that one day everything will be attached to our RFID... or a chip implanted in our forearm.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on May 17, 2018, 09:36:58 AM
I don't have much of an opinion about the autograph lotteries, because I never lined up for them before and I won't be signing up for them now. But I agree that Hall H should eventually become a lottery - I love hall H, but it's simply not worth giving up half or more of my Con time to get into it. And it would help with the marina-side not being an unwalkable mess for days.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 17, 2018, 09:37:23 AM
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Can we get back to complaining about autographs though?!
Complaining?!  I'm rejoicing!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on May 17, 2018, 10:26:22 AM
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I wonder if this is actually SDCC's way of reducing lines so they don't have to deal with the onsite demands this always entails.  They're pretty bad keeping things in order with the normal Everything Else line.  By doing the online lottery, they eliminate so many of the small autograph/exclusive lines that fill up the Sails in the early part of the morning.  By eliminating the need to staff these, they can put more of their staff, security and other resources to maintaining the Hall H and Everything Else lines.

Just a thought anyways.

I like this theory actually.. There was always so much human error with the external security/line forces with secret lines and cutters.. at least this lowers the chance of that (at a price, I suppose).

The more I think about it, it'll be nice to only have the EE line be for panels/exhibit hall. Though I'm still bummed about having that choice taken from us.

Also hoping this includes exclusives that took place in sails, though again, that does take the choice from those who were willing to put in the work to ensure them. The hard thing about all of this is just accepting that some changes *should* be made to improve how sdcc runs, even though we're people who typically prefer to master the rules in place ;) . There are too many accidents and complaints of unfairness, and as Kerry said, the lines have only been getting earlier and longer. There are a good amount of people thrilled about the change simply because they would have never have made that choice/stood a chance before (did you all see the blog poll on twitter? Just wow).
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on May 17, 2018, 10:35:54 AM
I don't do the autograph lotteries at SDCC, because I prioritize my time elsewhere. But sure, I'll be entering the lotteries online, to see if I win anything. So my chances of getting an autograph have improved.

But am I happy about this? No. Because SDCC is a line culture. If people aren't lined up for the Sails in the morning, they're going to be lined up elsewhere. The Hall H lines will get longer, the offsite lines will get longer. Lines for everything else are going to go nuts.

And those are the lines in which I will be stuck. Whee. :-\
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 17, 2018, 10:40:02 AM
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I don't do the autograph lotteries at SDCC, because I prioritize my time elsewhere. But sure, I'll be entering the lotteries online, to see if I win anything. So my chances of getting an autograph have improved.

But am I happy about this? No. Because SDCC is a line culture. If people aren't lined up for the Sails in the morning, they're going to be lined up elsewhere. The Hall H lines will get longer, the offsite lines will get longer. Lines for everything else are going to go nuts.

And those are the lines in which I will be stuck. Whee. :-\

This is a darn good point and now I'm a little worried.  The only plus side for me personally is that I don't currently have plans for Hall H this year since there's no Marvel so I may get to skip that beast.  But if this effects B20 line I'm screwed.  If they put Legion in B20 again (which would make sense) I know I'll be in B20 line for at least one day.  UGH.

I know I'm a broken record about Legion and I apologize lmao.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: rabbitwarren on May 17, 2018, 10:43:06 AM
 NYCC had a system where people were limited to 2 major events and 2 minor events a day and half of the spots at panels were still first come first serve.  It wasn't perfect by any means but I got almost everything I really wanted eventually (even the lego exclusive). 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: puppy on May 17, 2018, 10:46:16 AM
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This is a darn good point and now I'm a little worried.  The only plus side for me personally is that I don't currently have plans for Hall H this year since there's no Marvel so I may get to skip that beast.  But if this effects B20 line I'm screwed.  If they put Legion in B20 again (which would make sense) I know I'll be in B20 line for at least one day.  UGH.

I know I'm a broken record about Legion and I apologize lmao.

The biggest problem I see is CCI won't anticipate the increase in other lines.  For instance, getting in that first day used to be so efficient.  Even with that long line to get our badge, it was fast.  Then, last year we got the mailed badges.  They thought, hey, no more need for workers to check people in.  Well, they forgot about the legions of folks who couldn't get mailed badges.  We were in line for hours just to pick up child badges, along with everyone else who needed child badges.

So there.  They will cut back staff for autograph lines, but they won't allocate them somewhere else.  Reduced staff.  Bigger lines.  More chaos.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: puppy on May 17, 2018, 10:50:38 AM
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OK, just not sure how we (lower case we representing all members who don't know you) are suppose to know that! That being said I know keeping rack of which pronouns people prefer to use these days is getting trickier and trickier!

Don't feel bad.  I didn't know, either.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: puppy on May 17, 2018, 10:53:28 AM
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I can't stand the people that keep saying well it was always a lottery.
It makes zero sense to compare me pulling a ticket in the morning at WB then also getting to pull at Fox where I'd have above a 50/50 chance of getting a autograph signing each day. To me having probably less than 1 percent chance now.
Make the huge Hall H line which has people camping for days, a lottery, that's the worst of all the lines anyway.
Last year I was late trying to get from my hotel the Hilton Bayfront to the Sails pavilion, I was walking quickly along the boardwalk but there were people camped out everywhere, and this was around noon. Some guy shouted not to walk through their camp, I didn't know that was a no go camp area I'm just seeing a mess of stuff and people and I'm just trying to walk.
Make everything a lottery then it's fair. But I see some people are happy as long as their favorite thing is not a lottery.

Even if you think it was a 50/50 chance, it was always zero for me.  I've never won that drawing.  After hours in line, I think I should more of a guarantee of something.  If it's hours in line to get nothing versus online lottery, I'll take the lottery.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on May 17, 2018, 10:57:48 AM
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Even if you think it was a 50/50 chance, it was always zero for me.  I've never won that drawing.  After hours in line, I think I should more of a guarantee of something.  If it's hours in line to get nothing versus online lottery, I'll take the lottery.
WB was above 50/50 chance not sure about Fox.
Everyone has different opinions and I understand that.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on May 17, 2018, 11:02:44 AM
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I don't do the autograph lotteries at SDCC, because I prioritize my time elsewhere. But sure, I'll be entering the lotteries online, to see if I win anything. So my chances of getting an autograph have improved.

But am I happy about this? No. Because SDCC is a line culture. If people aren't lined up for the Sails in the morning, they're going to be lined up elsewhere. The Hall H lines will get longer, the offsite lines will get longer. Lines for everything else are going to go nuts.

And those are the lines in which I will be stuck. Whee. :-\

Realistically, how many people are are we talking about?  I did a limited signing draw on Friday last year (the big names were RL Stine, The Tick Cast, Steven Universe, Tobin Bell and Voltron Cast), there were maybe a few hundred in that line (between 400-500, maybe?) would be my guess (and someone may need to check on that for me as my memory can be hazy).  What numbers are people thinking try out for the WB/Fox signings?  500? 1,000? 5,000?

That Everything Else line is obscenely long whenever I line up (usually I'm lined up all the way to that little park that juts out into the Bay, one year, the line made a whole loop around it). So if people transfer to another line inside the convention center, I probably wouldn't notice.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 17, 2018, 01:42:46 PM
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At WonderCon it was strictly WonderCon merch, but WonderCon doesn't have exclusive madness like SDCC. What screenshot made you think they would not include things like Funko or Lego? Was it the one with the old verbiage leftover from WonderCon that hasn't been updated?

What made you think it would include Lego or Funko? That logic cuts both ways. You say  “updated language” I say the language is already updated since the portal shouldn’t have been open at all. It also didn’t say wondercon. It said comic con 2018. 🤷‍♂️ only the terms and conditions weren’t updated. There’s nothing indicating all exclusives will be going lotto.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: jamiesugah on May 17, 2018, 05:15:58 PM
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NYCC had a system where people were limited to 2 major events and 2 minor events a day and half of the spots at panels were still first come first serve.  It wasn't perfect by any means but I got almost everything I really wanted eventually (even the lego exclusive).

I got nothing in the lotteries. I was able to get into the Main Stage panels I wanted by lining up. Granted, Main Stage is about half the size of Hall H. But I got nothing in the lotteries. Still better than waiting in line.

I can tell you this. I'll definitely enter autograph lotteries, and I'll be happy about it. I've not lined up for the autograph draw since my first con because I'm poor and spending an obscene amount of money for my hotel room and I'm sleeping in it. So this is one person who won't be using the opportunity to line up anywhere else, because I don't line up anyway.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on May 17, 2018, 07:33:05 PM
Just guessing if they do the lottery for any or all things then i be kinda shocked i see no lines in back cause it has basically removed the need for any long lines to see or get anything. and it does make or give everyone more time to check out what is at the con for the year. and hope con goers are happier if not already that they was able to see more and get more swag/ freebies they may have missed cause they was waiting in line all day for anything.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lmm3787 on May 18, 2018, 10:09:27 AM
From a business standpoint-- a lot of the same people go for signings, while tens of thousands of people either do not know about it or do not want to deal with the headache.  This is bad business as your not marketing to your full potential audience. All of these signings and even panels are marketing ploys by an organization or television/movie studio. If the same people continue to receive the benefit (i.e. signing or viewing) then the marketing is ineffective as no new consumers are being reached. Hence, by creating the online lottery new individuals are able to receive the benefit thus potentially broadening the audience for the company.

For example, I would never have gone for the Black Lightning signing at WonderCon normally. However, I did and was unsuccessful. Even though I was unsuccessful I wanted to know more about the show and am now watching it.  If I won the lottery and got the benefit of the signing-- I probably would be an even bigger fan.

I recognize that the online lottery system flat out sucks for the people that know how to do signings and have been doing it for years. However, it does present a better opportunity for others. I would not be surprised that this is just a trial run for what is to come for Hall H.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mark on May 18, 2018, 10:25:17 AM
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From a business standpoint-- a lot of the same people go for signings, while tens of thousands of people either do not know about it or do not want to deal with the headache.  This is bad business as your not marketing to your full potential audience. All of these signings and even panels are marketing ploys by an organization or television/movie studio. If the same people continue to receive the benefit (i.e. signing or viewing) then the marketing is ineffective as no new consumers are being reached. Hence, by creating the online lottery new individuals are able to receive the benefit thus potentially broadening the audience for the company.

For example, I would never have gone for the Black Lightning signing at WonderCon normally. However, I did and was unsuccessful. Even though I was unsuccessful I wanted to know more about the show and am now watching it.  If I won the lottery and got the benefit of the signing-- I probably would be an even bigger fan.

I recognize that the online lottery system flat out sucks for the people that know how to do signings and have been doing it for years. However, it does present a better opportunity for others. I would not be surprised that this is just a trial run for what is to come for Hall H.

That's an interesting point about the marketing aspects to different approaches, and makes me wonder how the pitch was made to get a new process in place.

Personally I'm mixed on the whole thing. As others have pointed out the lines are such a part of the sdcc culture, and I hate to see things like that go away. I just hope whatever they end up with works and is done fairly.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 18, 2018, 10:27:20 AM
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What made you think it would include Lego or Funko? That logic cuts both ways. You say  “updated language” I say the language is already updated since the portal shouldn’t have been open at all. It also didn’t say wondercon. It said comic con 2018. 🤷‍♂️ only the terms and conditions weren’t updated. There’s nothing indicating all exclusives will be going lotto.


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What makes me think it is because they call it the "exclusives" portal and they never called it that when all they sold was their preorder merch did they? Also, because none of these companies enjoy having to staff Sails distribution and come up with ticketing solutions and have been asking CCI for lottery for years. These companies have been handling their business at the other big Cons with lotteries for a couple years now.

As an aside, I don't think this necessarily increases Hall H lines. You pretty much have to choose autograph or panel since the autograph sessions are either immediately before or immediately after a panel and take long enough that I wouldn't personally feel comfy risking it with a bathroom pass as they can often be delayed making you late or they get cut off and people who show up late don't get in even with a wristband.

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on May 18, 2018, 10:44:11 AM
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As an aside, I don't think this necessarily increases Hall H lines. You pretty much have to choose autograph or panel since the autograph sessions are either immediately before or immediately after a panel and take long enough that I wouldn't personally feel comfy risking it with a bathroom pass as they can often be delayed making you late or they get cut off and people who show up late don't get in even with a wristband.

I think people mean it will just increase the overnight Hall H lines, since previously you had to choose between the "Hall H" and "Everything Else" lines to camp in. So all the people who were only in the EE line for autograph drawings will now be somewhere else, and some of them will be in the H line.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 18, 2018, 11:00:58 AM
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I think people mean it will just increase the overnight Hall H lines, since previously you had to choose between the "Hall H" and "Everything Else" lines to camp in. So all the people who were only in the EE line for autograph drawings will now be somewhere else, and some of them will be in the H line.

I agree with this.  While I have always gone the other way (prioritize panels above autos), people who have prioritized autos above panels don't have to make that choice now.

If autos are after panels, you don't have to choose.  You can go from one directly to the other.  If it's before that gets tricky because you risk the room being full.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 18, 2018, 11:12:47 AM
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What makes me think it is because they call it the "exclusives" portal and they never called it that when all they sold was their preorder merch did they? Also, because none of these companies enjoy having to staff Sails distribution and come up with ticketing solutions and have been asking CCI for lottery for years. These companies have been handling their business at the other big Cons with lotteries for a couple years now.

As an aside, I don't think this necessarily increases Hall H lines. You pretty much have to choose autograph or panel since the autograph sessions are either immediately before or immediately after a panel and take long enough that I wouldn't personally feel comfy risking it with a bathroom pass as they can often be delayed making you late or they get cut off and people who show up late don't get in even with a wristband.

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I believe that’s exactly what they called it at wondercon “exclusives” that is. I don’t think their personal wants really factor into what SDCC decides as they’ve shown previously they march to the beat of their own drum. Ultimately it’s speculation but I’m defering to SDCC blog here and their history is pretty good on this stuff 🤷‍♂️


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 18, 2018, 01:31:19 PM
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I believe that’s exactly what they called it at wondercon “exclusives” that is. I don’t think their personal wants really factor into what SDCC decides as they’ve shown previously they march to the beat of their own drum. Ultimately it’s speculation but I’m defering to SDCC blog here and their history is pretty good on this stuff 🤷‍♂️


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I defer to no one because this is all speculation and as I said, there are no big exclusives at WonderCon, ever, you can't go by how they used it there and apply it to SDCC. Also, a great deal of whatever the blog posts is stuff I saw here first. There is no magical connection over there that is privvy to anything we don't know and they have often been wrong. Last year's hotel sale date comes immediately to mind.

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 18, 2018, 01:34:14 PM
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I defer to no one because this is all speculation and as I said, there are no big exclusives at WonderCon, ever, you can't go by how they used it there and apply it to SDCC. Also, a great deal of whatever the blog posts is stuff I saw here first. There is no magical connection over there that is privvy to anything we don't know and they have often been wrong. Last year's hotel sale date comes immediately to mind.

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You realize lawboysam cross posts some stuff right because she runs sdcc blog? And they do have some sources we don’t have here. They break news all the time; case in point the bait booth pop.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on May 18, 2018, 01:42:17 PM
SDCC Blog is usually right but on a few rare occasions they announce something that turns out to be false.
Like they said on Twitter there would be signings for Krypton and Lucifer at Wondercon and there weren't.
Actually they made a blog post about it here:
http://sdccblog.com/2018/02/wbtv-announces-wondercon-2018-schedule/

I actually spoke to Comic Con staff at Wondercon and they said no lottery for SDCC until 2019.
But of course they might have changed their minds.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 18, 2018, 01:42:53 PM
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You realize lawboysam cross posts some stuff right because she runs sdcc blog? And they do have some sources we don’t have here. They break news all the time; case in point the bait booth pop.


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I've been around here a long time. I know who she is. She was a modertor here first and she's here reading every day. Things we say here end up there. Which is fine, I'm just saying it's not a special source on anything when it comes to what is going on inside CCI.

Also, CCI absolutely DOES care what their vendors think and want. Especially the big ones.

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: nootheroptions on May 18, 2018, 01:47:45 PM
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I've been around here a long time. I know who she is. She was a modertor here first and she's here reading every day. Things we say here end up there. Which is fine, I'm just saying it's not a special source on anything when it comes to what is going on inside CCI.

Also, CCI absolutely DOES care what their vendors think and want. Especially the big ones.

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I’m not going to argue with you here because ultimately we dont agree but we’re both coming from logical places based on the info we have. I think it’s pretty clear that at least for this year there won’t be a lottery for SDCC exclusives. Phrasing; history; and statements by people like godolphin above lead me to believe that. You have equally valid reasons. Well know in 60 Days or less 🧐


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on May 18, 2018, 01:55:58 PM
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You have equally valid reasons. Well know in 60 Days or less 🧐

Hopefully less.  Come on CCI, we are obsessive planners.  Let us plan.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on May 18, 2018, 02:02:25 PM
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Hopefully less.  Come on CCI, we are obsessive planners.  Let us plan.

This ;) I think we're a special bunch when it comes to over-preparing no matter the possibility. That's why these discussions are fun!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cabler30 on May 18, 2018, 02:23:20 PM
Like last year, was like my first year back to go and chance volunteer for a first time in so long i made sure to have stuff incase stuck outside in heat. and lucky that have bag check so u can have them store a bag while u job and not have it get misplaced at anytime. i read comments as much as possible so i aware what is possible and good they try to prepare us for the big event ahead of time. so learned alot from last year so im sure some things may change but not everything.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on May 21, 2018, 09:45:32 PM
I attend the ATX TV Festival in Austin.  It's in a few weeks.  Here's how they handle distributing "fast passes", which give you "front of the line" positions for getting into panels.  Here's how they do it:

Quote
ATX Badgeholders,

Be on the lookout!  Badge codes are coming tomorrow, TUESDAY, MAY 22. You will receive an email copy of your Badge Receipt that will include your Fast Pass Lottery Badge Code and instructions on entering your top eight (8) panel and screening preferences.

Here’s what it will look like:

<image that says each badge has a unique code and how to enter it>

Three things to remember:

1) Enter your preferences in order of HIGHEST (1) to LOWEST (8) priority. Fast Passes will be assigned based on availability!

2) Select a TOTAL of eight (8) different screenings and panels. If you submit LESS than eight different selections, you are NOT guaranteed four (4) Fast Passes. Entering a single piece of programming more than once will NOT increase your odds of securing a Fast Pass to that event.

3) All Fast Pass Preferences must be submitted by Friday, May 25 at 11:59 PM CT for your submission to be valid. Please email [email protected] with any questions during the process.

Lastly...

You will be notified of your confirmed Fast Passes by 12 PM CT on Monday, May 28.

After that, you can log into our ONLINE GUIDE using your same badge code, and add, drop, or switch out Fast Passes for events with open Fast Pass availability. And please remember, even if an event is indicated as “full”, that just means that all the available Fast Passes have been reserved, not that the event is closed. Fast Passes only account for ⅓ of the venue -- so you’ll still have ample opportunity to attend via the General Badgeholder line!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on May 31, 2018, 11:20:47 AM
Sweet Mondo first inline to use the new system! Can't wait to see what other vendors use it to sell their releases!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on May 31, 2018, 12:05:36 PM
Pretty sure Mondo will still do their normal booth thing and this is just for the one with CCI

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on June 01, 2018, 04:25:55 PM
Agreed. Mondo is all about lines! I think this is only because it’s the cover for the souvenir guide!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: karl clement on June 01, 2018, 04:34:01 PM
they excluded vendors and pro's this was very interesting, what will they do for auto's
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on June 02, 2018, 09:39:52 AM
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they excluded vendors and pro's this was very interesting, what will they do for auto's

I feel for pros because they really had no advantages to exploit and as far as I know, were never restricted in such a way beforehand.  Also, while some vendors did exploit their early access to the hall for things like exclusives and some autographs, I have to believe most vendors never did that.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on June 02, 2018, 08:46:46 PM
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I feel for pros because they really had no advantages to exploit and as far as I know, were never restricted in such a way beforehand.  Also, while some vendors did exploit their early access to the hall for things like exclusives and some autographs, I have to believe most vendors never did that.

Even for autos in the past, vendors only had an advantage for booths like Marvel that are on the floor.  They didn't get early access to Sails so had no advantage for Fox/WB etc. 

I feel sorry for volunteers as well who can't enter, and hope not all the exclusive drawings are restricted like the Mondo print is. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Michaelnaut on June 03, 2018, 05:45:54 AM
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Even for autos in the past, vendors only had an advantage for booths like Marvel that are on the floor.  They didn't get early access to Sails so had no advantage for Fox/WB etc. 

I feel sorry for volunteers as well who can't enter, and hope not all the exclusive drawings are restricted like the Mondo print is.
You know this brings up an interesting point.  I wonder if volunteers would drop because they aren't eligible for exclusives now.  Maybe/maybe not?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 03, 2018, 01:43:59 PM
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You know this brings up an interesting point.  I wonder if volunteers would drop because they aren't eligible for exclusives now.  Maybe/maybe not?

Perhaps not this year as regular badges are sold out (obviously)  and volunteering is the only way for them to get in. BUT they might drop for future years.

I foresee a lot of problems with the exclusion.



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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on June 03, 2018, 11:18:23 PM
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You know this brings up an interesting point.  I wonder if volunteers would drop because they aren't eligible for exclusives now.  Maybe/maybe not?

If you are a volunteer who purchased a badge, I would think yes, that is going to be a potential hazard for their staffing needs. 

If you are a volunteer who is doing it to get a free badge, perhaps not since they may be more inclined to save money as much as possible.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on June 04, 2018, 10:12:55 AM
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Even for autos in the past, vendors only had an advantage for booths like Marvel that are on the floor.  They didn't get early access to Sails so had no advantage for Fox/WB etc. 

I feel sorry for volunteers as well who can't enter, and hope not all the exclusive drawings are restricted like the Mondo print is.

I think that its less that they want to exclude problem-people of the past and moreso that they want to keep the opportunities there for attendees themselves. I can see why they'd want to exclude vendors when they tend to flip so many things at their booths even with the exclusions, but the others seem a little harsh.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on June 04, 2018, 10:50:23 AM
Reseller .. vendor... they sow what they reap. Hope they are not allow in any raffles....
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on June 25, 2018, 11:55:59 AM
https://sdccblog.com/2018/06/legion-returns-to-mess-with-your-head-at-san-diego-comic-con-2018/

Quote
The cast and producers of all three series will be signing autographs – and for an opportunity to participate, you’ll need to sign up through CCI’s Exclusives Portal beginning ...
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on June 25, 2018, 12:01:51 PM
OH yeah! 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angology on June 25, 2018, 01:11:24 PM
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https://sdccblog.com/2018/06/legion-returns-to-mess-with-your-head-at-san-diego-comic-con-2018/
Quote
The cast and producers of all three series will be signing autographs – and for an opportunity to participate, you’ll need to sign up through CCI’s Exclusives Portal beginning ...
So, where is that info coming from? Did I miss something? I have seen it mentioned a couple of times, but don't know where the actual date came from. Was it on CCI's site? I am no doubting it, just wondering where it was officially announced.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: CptMyCpt24 on June 25, 2018, 02:13:32 PM
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So, where is that info coming from? Did I miss something? I have seen it mentioned a couple of times, but don't know where the actual date came from. Was it on CCI's site? I am no doubting it, just wondering where it was officially announced.

If you login to the exclusives portal is has this line: Comic-Con 2018 exclusive merchandise purchasing time slots and exclusive signings will be added at a later date.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: AzT on June 25, 2018, 02:27:34 PM
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So, where is that info coming from? Did I miss something? I have seen it mentioned a couple of times, but don't know where the actual date came from. Was it on CCI's site? I am no doubting it, just wondering where it was officially announced.

Agreed, #ShowYourSource
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on June 25, 2018, 02:46:47 PM
Their tweet as well. 

https://twitter.com/SD_Comic_Con/status/1011315962258313216?s=19
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 25, 2018, 03:00:37 PM
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If you login to the exclusives portal is has this line: Comic-Con 2018 exclusive merchandise purchasing time slots and exclusive signings will be added at a later date.

Mine does not.  But I'm press. Is press not allowed to do autos either, I wonder? I never try for them usually, but this is going to kill a lot of my friends who can't anymore. (RIP Kevin)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mlgagne on June 25, 2018, 03:04:56 PM
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Mine does not.  But I'm press. Is press not allowed to do autos either, I wonder? I never try for them usually, but this is going to kill a lot of my friends who can't anymore. (RIP Kevin)

As a pro, I'm still not allowed to enter the portal either...but the exclusives tab specifies the following when I click on it:

Sorry but you are not allowed to view spoiler contents.



So hopefully, the portal will open for us at a later point since this only specifies the Mondo print? At least, I'm praying to the con gods that that will be the case... :-\
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 25, 2018, 03:16:10 PM
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As a pro, I'm still not allowed to enter the portal either...but the exclusives tab specifies the following when I click on it:

Sorry but you are not allowed to view spoiler contents.



So hopefully, the portal will open for us at a later point since this only specifies the Mondo print? At least, I'm praying to the con gods that that will be the case... :-\

Mine shows the same.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on June 25, 2018, 06:55:04 PM
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Mine does not.  But I'm press. Is press not allowed to do autos either, I wonder? I never try for them usually, but this is going to kill a lot of my friends who can't anymore. (RIP Kevin)
I will reserve my thoughts, observations, and reactions until we know for certain.
7 more days before this opens up for entry.

Hopefully it will be a fair process for all. That is all I will say for now.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 25, 2018, 06:58:21 PM
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I will reserve my thoughts, observations, and reactions until we know for certain.
7 more days before this opens up for entry.

Hopefully it will be a fair process for all. That is all I will say for now.

My facebook direct messages are always open for preemptive rants  ;)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Miss Kitty on June 25, 2018, 07:27:09 PM
I contacted CCI a while ago and they were fairly clear for vendors (sorry, I should have asked for you guys too, but I fear you guys may be in the same boat) that most of the autographs, exclusives will be through badge random pick and I'm not eligible. But, they said there are some that aren't. Of course, I instantly think of the Soup Nazi. But, I'm free to get Bob's Burgers stuff, so there's that!

Fyi, I don't work for a flipper vendor. In fact, we sell stuff others come and flip!

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cire_raeb on June 25, 2018, 08:12:47 PM
Does anyone think he or she has a better chance with the lottery system?


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Dubb on June 25, 2018, 09:43:18 PM
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Does anyone think he or she has a better chance with the lottery system?


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Yes. My odds have increased from ZERO to 1/130,000.
Title: Re: Autograph Tips and Tricks for SDCC
Post by: LB42 on June 26, 2018, 05:20:36 AM
Well it looks to be confirmed that there will be a lottery for Fox and most likely WB autographs which opens July 2nd. The everything else line just got a lot shorter.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on June 26, 2018, 07:58:06 AM
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Yes. My odds have increased from ZERO to 1/130,000.

I would say that your odds will be far better than 1/130,000.  Not everyone will enter the lottery.  Believe it or not (gasp), some people don't care about autographs and many people may not be familiar with the shows/actors who are giving them out.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on June 26, 2018, 08:16:10 AM
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I would say that your odds will be far better than 1/130,000.  Not everyone will enter the lottery.  Believe it or not (gasp), some people don't care about autographs and many people may not be familiar with the shows/actors who are giving them out.
Also there will be more than one winner for the signings.  I would say at minimum 100 winners per signing which brings the odds down to 1/1,300.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ALF on June 26, 2018, 08:38:45 AM
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I would say that your odds will be far better than 1/130,000.  Not everyone will enter the lottery.  Believe it or not (gasp), some people don't care about autographs and many people may not be familiar with the shows/actors who are giving them out.


Yea i don't plan to enter the lotto for Supernatural.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Volsspongebob on June 26, 2018, 08:43:33 AM
A lot of the pushback on the lottery is based on Wondercon results and people getting shut out. But they are not thinking that the supply for Wondercon and the supply you have at SDCC is night and day difference. Even with SDCC demand levels, your supply is at a significantly higher level for SDCC. Thus increasing odds.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on June 26, 2018, 09:50:01 AM
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Does anyone think he or she has a better chance with the lottery system?


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Quite the opposite for me. There was always a certain level of assurance as long as I was able to put in whatever effort was required, which sometimes wasn't that much.. but now? No chance.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: ominousdx on June 26, 2018, 10:27:15 AM
I'm glad that they are moving to an online-lottery system that doesn't require me to waste my night in a line. I got a lot of autographs/signings with the "old" system but people keep upping their game and it is getting more and more difficult. You had to stand in line at 6pm the day before the signing and the guys at the front have 50 "friends" that cut in right before the doors open. Finally, even if you do this and are one of the first ones to get in, you still have to draw a winning ticket. Yuk.... I rather click a button and hope for the best.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on June 26, 2018, 10:53:40 AM
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Quite the opposite for me. There was always a certain level of assurance as long as I was able to put in whatever effort was required, which sometimes wasn't that much.. but now? No chance.
Agreed.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Pyramid on June 26, 2018, 11:01:42 AM
I do wonder if the lottery system will impact other panels now.  If people don't have to wait in line for an autograph, what will they do?  Of course people attend SDCC for a variety of reasons but it could impact other areas.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: cire_raeb on June 26, 2018, 11:06:25 AM
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Quite the opposite for me. There was always a certain level of assurance as long as I was able to put in whatever effort was required, which sometimes wasn't that much.. but now? No chance.

In  the past SDCC  was about making decisions, setting priorities, and dealing with disappointment.  With that said, I usually get 75% of the exclusives  I wanted by defeating the lines  by getting up early and teaming up with others to hold my spot(s). Make lemonade when given lemons.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on June 26, 2018, 11:20:55 AM
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I do wonder if the lottery system will impact other panels now.  If people don't have to wait in line for an autograph, what will they do?  Of course people attend SDCC for a variety of reasons but it could impact other areas.

I'm expecting this personally.  I don't expect the EE line to shrink.  Instead, people who would have rushed off to the autographs or exclusives lines, will now either go to the exhibit hall or line up for the panel rooms when they let the line inside.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: epicaz on June 26, 2018, 01:33:13 PM
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I'm expecting this personally.  I don't expect the EE line to shrink.  Instead, people who would have rushed off to the autographs or exclusives lines, will now either go to the exhibit hall or line up for the panel rooms when they let the line inside.

And seeing the panel lineup so far for Hall H.. I worry that all of those will simply feed into to the other areas moreso than usual. It just means more less distribution on where those crowds are going. Just a guess, but I'll expect to see more people on the floor and among other panels
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on June 26, 2018, 03:48:58 PM
Also, unless CCI has a stated policy for how they will deal with standbys, people will line up in the EE line to get standby autograph wristbands. At WonderCon, there were a number of no-show winners for each autograph, even for the most popular signings. It was a mess distributing the extras.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Mel on June 26, 2018, 03:52:44 PM
Maybe they will just "oversell" winners to take care of that issue

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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Devorah on June 26, 2018, 04:02:43 PM
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Also, unless CCI has a stated policy for how they will deal with standbys, people will line up in the EE line to get standby autograph wristbands. At WonderCon, there were a number of no-show winners for each autograph, even for the most popular signings. It was a mess distributing the extras.

Thoughts on why they can't just give out standby the same way they distribute the original winners? Meaning tell people through the exclusives site if a spot opens up for them. That means no standby line required. Is it just because it's too last minute?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: kat_sydney on June 26, 2018, 04:09:15 PM
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Thoughts on why they can't just give out standby the same way they distribute the original winners? Meaning tell people through the exclusives site if a spot opens up for them. That means no standby line required. Is it just because it's too last minute?

I would assume because people will only pick up wristbands the day of the signing, so there would be limited time between pick up and the signing time - not enough time to do a redraw, notify people etc.

Also, I imagine some people would pick up the wristbands and then not turn up to the signing (which I suspect will happen in greater numbers than at WonderCon because of the sheer number of things going on/offsides etc). You might win a signing, have every intention of going, then end up getting caught up with something else.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: clarrkkent on June 26, 2018, 04:17:30 PM
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Yes. My odds have increased from ZERO to 1/130,000.

that about sums it up. Anyone that didn’t want to spend their time camping or standing in lines now has a better chance. Those that didn’t mind the time investment are not as fortunate.






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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: clarrkkent on June 26, 2018, 04:19:32 PM
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I would say that your odds will be far better than 1/130,000.  Not everyone will enter the lottery.  Believe it or not (gasp), some people don't care about autographs and many people may not be familiar with the shows/actors who are giving them out.


If I could bring my own item to have signed, it’d be worth it. (Art, action figures, etc.) I don’t want some crappy promo poster though. Count me in as “not entering”.


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on June 26, 2018, 04:43:06 PM
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I would assume because people will only pick up wristbands the day of the signing, so there would be limited time between pick up and the signing time - not enough time to do a redraw, notify people etc.

Also, I imagine some people would pick up the wristbands and then not turn up to the signing (which I suspect will happen in greater numbers than at WonderCon because of the sheer number of things going on/offsides etc). You might win a signing, have every intention of going, then end up getting caught up with something else.

I agree. And if they 'oversell' signings, then what happens to people who get a wristband and then can't get in because too many people showed up? That will just create a frenzy for the winners. They've got to come up with some system that isn't having a standby line, otherwise there will still be big lines.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Pyramid on June 26, 2018, 04:47:15 PM
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Also, unless CCI has a stated policy for how they will deal with standbys, people will line up in the EE line to get standby autograph wristbands. At WonderCon, there were a number of no-show winners for each autograph, even for the most popular signings. It was a mess distributing the extras.

Yeesh.  Hopefully, CCI updates their policy sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on June 27, 2018, 07:54:46 AM
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Thoughts on why they can't just give out standby the same way they distribute the original winners? Meaning tell people through the exclusives site if a spot opens up for them. That means no standby line required. Is it just because it's too last minute?

This is a fantastic idea.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: penman on June 27, 2018, 09:18:21 AM
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And seeing the panel lineup so far for Hall H.. I worry that all of those will simply feed into to the other areas moreso than usual. It just means more less distribution on where those crowds are going. Just a guess, but I'll expect to see more people on the floor and among other panels

Yea I am 100% against this idea of a online lottery for autographs. I feel like lines weeded out the people who didn't want it enough. Now you will have everyone trying because it is just a click of a button. People may just buy to resell since they don't have to put in any work to get it.

Also what about people who do this and get it, and then day of, something better came up so they do something else. Is that spot just wasted now? And yea...less lines means more people in other areas. People thought inside the convention was packed before....it's about to get crazy.

The only positive is for people who weren't dedicated enough and for the flippers who were too lazy to get in line.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: NCDS on June 27, 2018, 09:36:08 AM
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Yea I am 100% against this idea of a online lottery for autographs. I feel like lines weeded out the people who didn't want it enough. Now you will have everyone trying because it is just a click of a button. People may just buy to resell since they don't have to put in any work to get it.

Also what about people who do this and get it, and then day of, something better came up so they do something else. Is that spot just wasted now? And yea...less lines means more people in other areas. People thought inside the convention was packed before....it's about to get crazy.

The only positive is for people who weren't dedicated enough and for the flippers who were too lazy to get in line.

This argument doesn't work though.  CCI doesn't care if people feel they are more deserving because they waited in line.  They care about the line and the chaos it is causing at their con and the safety hazards it causes.  It honestly is the most fair way they can do it.  No one has an advantage and they are treating everyone fair.    So while I get everyone is upset about it if people want to argue for CCI to change it we are going to need to step up our game. 

Flippers are willing to do the time so it actually hurts them more and maybe creates a few casual flippers.  Over all though I don't think the ebay factor is really valid with or without lotto this stuff ends up on ebay.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on June 27, 2018, 09:47:00 AM
The real problem at this point (for CCI anyway) is definitely what to do about no-show winners. Allowing any sort of standby line wholly defeats the purpose of the lottery IMO. But "overselling" is obviously dangerous too, if more than they calculated decide to show up. Maybe oversell by ~5% and let any more slots go to waste?

Although, this is CCI we're talking about so they will probably 1) declare there is absolutely no standby line, 2) watch passively as an unofficial standby line forms anyway, 3) give up and allow the extra spots to be filled by the standby line. Ugh.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mark on June 27, 2018, 10:08:21 AM
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The real problem at this point (for CCI anyway) is definitely what to do about no-show winners. Allowing any sort of standby line wholly defeats the purpose of the lottery IMO. But "overselling" is obviously dangerous too, if more than they calculated decide to show up. Maybe oversell by ~5% and let any more slots go to waste?

Although, this is CCI we're talking about so they will probably 1) declare there is absolutely no standby line, 2) watch passively as an unofficial standby line forms anyway, 3) give up and allow the extra spots to be filled by the standby line. Ugh.

I think your prediction will prove to be spot on. I also think they should have some reasonable penalty for no shows who don't cancel before some specified time. Like maybe you are locked out of the portal next year.

I'm mixed on the whole thing. On the one hand, sdcc has this weird crazy culture that I love. So when there are changes to it, even if the changes have solid practical reasons, I register it as a loss.

On the other hand, I like the notion that this allows some people to take part who would have been intimidated by the old way or who just wouldn't have been able to participate for other reasons. (This is partly a selfish opinion, most years I have had work commitments that make it impossible to queue up early.) But if that was a goal they could accomplish that by having some slots assigned by lottery with most handled the old way. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SteveD on June 27, 2018, 10:13:57 AM
I'm going to hold off on my opinion of this process until I see what autograph sessions I will be able to attend. ;)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 27, 2018, 10:17:33 AM
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Yea I am 100% against this idea of a online lottery for autographs. I feel like lines weeded out the people who didn't want it enough. Now you will have everyone trying because it is just a click of a button. People may just buy to resell since they don't have to put in any work to get it.

Also what about people who do this and get it, and then day of, something better came up so they do something else. Is that spot just wasted now? And yea...less lines means more people in other areas. People thought inside the convention was packed before....it's about to get crazy.

The only positive is for people who weren't dedicated enough and for the flippers who were too lazy to get in line.

I think these are valid points specifically because I've never tried for autos before, but I will if I'm eligible for the lottery.  SO.... I'm the one being talked about here lol oops. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on June 27, 2018, 10:23:15 AM
It's all theoretical for me since I won't go for autographs no matter what the process is. But I do have a vested interest in CCI improving their line-management game since I would like to return to Hall H sometime this decade without giving up the entire rest of my convention.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: clarrkkent on June 27, 2018, 10:24:08 AM
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This argument doesn't work though.  CCI doesn't care if people feel they are more deserving because they waited in line.  They care about the line and the chaos it is causing at their con and the safety hazards it causes.  It honestly is the most fair way they can do it.  No one has an advantage and they are treating everyone fair.    So while I get everyone is upset about it if people want to argue for CCI to change it we are going to need to step up our game. 

Flippers are willing to do the time so it actually hurts them more and maybe creates a few casual flippers.  Over all though I don't think the ebay factor is really valid with or without lotto this stuff ends up on ebay.

People flip autographs? I don’t get it. Spend all that time in line for a CHANCE to make a few bucks. Are signed items even authenticated?


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Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: NCDS on June 27, 2018, 10:24:40 AM
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I think these are valid points specifically because I've never tried for autos before, but I will if I'm eligible for the lottery.  SO.... I'm the one being talked about here lol oops.

I would argue you have a right also and why should you have to sleep out to get a chance to enjoy it?  I say you deserve a chance also, unless you are pro or press  >:D (please don't beat me up for the joke at the end)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Vapors on June 27, 2018, 10:31:10 AM
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People flip autographs? I don’t get it. Spend all that time in line for a CHANCE to make a few bucks. Are signed items even authenticated?

People will flip the wristband for hundreds.  I've seen it done.

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Although, this is CCI we're talking about so they will probably 1) declare there is absolutely no standby line, 2) watch passively as an unofficial standby line forms anyway, 3) give up and allow the extra spots to be filled by the standby line. Ugh.

What may more likely happen is SDCC will punt this to the booths running the autographs.  So after Comic Con announces the winners, any leftover will be given back and redistributed at the discretion of the booths. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on June 27, 2018, 10:35:20 AM
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Although, this is CCI we're talking about so they will probably 1) declare there is absolutely no standby line, 2) watch passively as an unofficial standby line forms anyway, 3) give up and allow the extra spots to be filled by the standby line. Ugh.

Yes, this is exactly what happened at WonderCon.

If they do this again at SDCC, expect the lines for the Sails to remain long as people line up to be in the standby autograph line.

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What may more likely happen is SDCC will punt this to the booths running the autographs.  So after Comic Con announces the winners, any leftover will be given back and redistributed at the discretion of the booths.

This is a really good point and you might very well be right. They can pass the buck and then use security to yell at anyone trying to form a line in front of these booths on the exhibit floor... ;)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: puppy on June 27, 2018, 10:42:32 AM
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People flip autographs? I don’t get it. Spend all that time in line for a CHANCE to make a few bucks. Are signed items even authenticated?


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Seriously.  All the fun in an autograph is meeting the star and having that keepsake memory.  Who would want to pay hundreds for something that is unverified?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: jristen on June 27, 2018, 10:49:06 AM
I will say (as someone who once spent about 24 hours in line to see the Star Wars panel) that I reject the idea that people who wait in a line want it "more" than someone who doesn't. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding to do a huge line for autographs or panels or exclusives or whatever - and, how big of a fan you are, is only one of them. In general, I do think that lotteries do level the playing field - but I wish there was some sort of system where you had a fixed number of lotto tickets (say 100) and you had to decide how to distribute them among the SDCC lotteries. That way, there would be a way to get an advantage for that one thing that was a MUST for you.

Also, I do agree that the only way this is going to work is that SDCC has a smooth way to allow people to indicate they're not coming, penalties if they don't indicate it, and a way to distribute those slots to others smoothly.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 27, 2018, 11:24:50 AM
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I would argue you have a right also and why should you have to sleep out to get a chance to enjoy it?  I say you deserve a chance also, unless you are pro or press >:D (please don't beat me up for the joke at the end)

thems fighten words  ;)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: frgx on June 27, 2018, 12:09:00 PM
They could give out x-amount (100?) of winning wristbands and y-amount (35?) of standby wristbands for each autograph session. Then they could call it a day.

All of the stand-bys would have been given out already, so there wouldn't be any lines forming.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: dkd on June 27, 2018, 12:32:18 PM
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They could give out x-amount (100?) of winning wristbands and y-amount (35?) of standby wristbands for each autograph session. Then they could call it a day.

All of the stand-bys would have been given out already, so there wouldn't be any lines forming.

Amazingly simple, except I can imagine the standby people jostling for position in line. 

I can add another idea from my experience at the ATX TV Festival.  There, when you get in line for a panel, they give you a "boarding pass" with a number on it that indicates your position in line.  They have an idea how many people the panel can fit, so each boarding pass has an "A", "B" or "C" on it.  "A" means you are definitely getting into the panel.  "B" means your chances are good, but not guaranteed.  "C" means your chances are not good.  Getting a "C" card gives you the opportunity to consider other panels or you can take the risk and see if you get in.  I did get into a panel with a "C" card, but I was one of the last people in.

They could use the same principle for autographs.  "A" wristbands mean a definite autograph.  Standby wristbands will have a designation and number that reflects your position in line.  Thus, there would be no jostling among the standby people to be first in line.  If you are standby #1 or standby #50, you can show up when autographs begin and not worry about your place in line because it's already been established.

May I add that once people experience what not spending so much time in line is like, they may realize how much more enjoyable their con is.  Comic-con has so much to offer, even if the panel you attend isn't your first or second choice.  Some of my "3rd Choice" panels have ended up being my favorites.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: semigeekgirl on June 27, 2018, 12:49:00 PM
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Amazingly simple, except I can imagine the standby people jostling for position in line. 


They could number the standby wristbands.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: NCDS on June 27, 2018, 01:04:01 PM
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thems fighten words  ;)

If we are going to fight can we hire professionals to fight for us?  Our faces are too pretty.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 27, 2018, 01:12:00 PM
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If we are going to fight can we hire professionals to fight for us?  Our faces are too pretty.

Yes we can call on champions, game of thrones style  ;D
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TossedSalad on June 27, 2018, 01:14:38 PM
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Yes we can call on champions, game of thrones style  ;D

Ahhhh the Viper. It’s still too soon
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on June 27, 2018, 01:24:21 PM
NCDS’ face is too pretty to fight, but mine is beat up enough already that it wouldn’t matter. ;)

I love the idea of passing out standby wristbands through the lottery, and having those standby wristbands numbered! That’s such a simple and elegant solution! I hope that CCI does something like that.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: NCDS on June 27, 2018, 02:00:12 PM
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NCDS’ face is too pretty to fight, but mine is beat up enough already that it wouldn’t matter. ;)

I love the idea of passing out standby wristbands through the lottery, and having those standby wristbands numbered! That’s such a simple and elegant solution! I hope that CCI does something like that.

Is someone offering to be my champion?   I can't allow it, your face is also too pretty!  you can't tell you took all the punches you speak of.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Godolphin on June 27, 2018, 02:27:25 PM
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Is someone offering to be my champion?   I can't allow it, your face is also too pretty!  you can't tell you took all the punches you speak of.

Well, I'm definitely not too pretty, and I will fight for both of you.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: GusGus23462 on June 27, 2018, 02:38:07 PM
Is this FoCC Fight Club now?

 :o
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angel_ on June 27, 2018, 02:57:02 PM
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Well, I'm definitely not too pretty, and I will fight for both of you.

I accept your offer. 
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: TopDawgz on June 27, 2018, 03:00:00 PM
This is Awesome. Finally I have a fair chance to get an autograph ticket. Years of being pushed, people cutting lines, rude workers who are just hot and tired of standing in the sun, people slipping off their bands and selling them saying they just wanted extra cash and never intended to go and all that wasted time. I stopped doing it last year because it was another bust so I had 0% chance of getting anything. Not that I EVER got anything, but this year I at least feel I have a better chance. Even a 1% to to get one autograph band is better than zero. This is just my opinion so please no destroying me..... 8)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: f22raptor on June 27, 2018, 04:17:01 PM
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This is Awesome. Finally I have a fair chance to get an autograph ticket. Years of being pushed, people cutting lines, rude workers who are just hot and tired of standing in the sun, people slipping off their bands and selling them saying they just wanted extra cash and never intended to go and all that wasted time. I stopped doing it last year because it was another bust so I had 0% chance of getting anything. Not that I EVER got anything, but this year I at least feel I have a better chance. Even a 1% to to get one autograph band is better than zero. This is just my opinion so please no destroying me..... 8)

I am pretty sure your chances are near certain, if you work as a team and be willing to put in the time.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: susanml10881 on June 27, 2018, 04:23:30 PM
I tried to read all 20 pages but I couldn't find the info. Is WB for sure doing online lotto? I read only Fox and certain others were. The program blurb just says see CCI info for getting a wristband.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Transmute Jun on June 27, 2018, 05:32:56 PM
So far only Fox has officially confirmed but WB is extremely likely.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: stl_ben on June 28, 2018, 08:59:17 AM
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In the past, CCI has used an online portal for their own merch. We think that's what this is again. We really don't think they'd try out a new system for both exclusives AND autographs in the same year. Better to do one, make sure it doesn't break Comic-Con, and then expand.
"we" were wrong.....
Sorry it's not polite to do the we told you so thing.....but even thought every one disagreed with me....its Lotteries!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Jason on June 28, 2018, 09:51:56 AM
Not everything will be lotteries, and at this point we only know it will be Fox. And since Fox's iPad coin flip last year was trash, good for them.

From the blog:

"[T]he Van Helsing cast will be signing autographs for fans on Thursday, July 19th from 3PM-3:30PM in the Autograph
Area in the Sails Pavilion. A drawing for line tickets will be held Thursday at 9AM am in the
Autograph Area
."
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: susanml10881 on June 28, 2018, 05:38:12 PM
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So far only Fox has officially confirmed but WB is extremely likely.

Ok thanks, that's what I thought and wasn't sure if I was missing something. They're at least releasing the exclusives and signings at different times/ days. And giving you enough time to sign up.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on July 02, 2018, 02:02:45 AM
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Not everything will be lotteries, and at this point we only know it will be Fox. And since Fox's iPad coin flip last year was trash, good for them.

From the blog:

"[T]he Van Helsing cast will be signing autographs for fans on Thursday, July 19th from 3PM-3:30PM in the Autograph
Area in the Sails Pavilion. A drawing for line tickets will be held Thursday at 9AM am in the
Autograph Area
."

times may be earlier?

https://twitter.com/DaronNefcy/status/1012514571490226176

Quote
STAR VS Comic-Con Autograph Session *Limited Signings* – 7/19 @ 11:45a, Sails Pavilion AA03 Must be in line for a wristband before 8:30a on 7/19, outside Ballroom 20. See Comic-Con Program Schedule for full info!

and

https://twitter.com/bob_schooley/status/1012492330291458048

Quote
FYI: Big Hero 6 The Series Comic-Con Autograph Session *Limited Signings* – 7/21 @ 2:30p, Sails Pavilion AA02 Must be in line for a wristband before 8:30a on 7/21, outside Ballroom 20. See Comic-Con Program Schedule for more info!
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mark on July 02, 2018, 08:18:44 AM
"Outside Ballroom 20" is that a new spot for this sort of thing?
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: lawboysam on July 02, 2018, 08:21:12 AM
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"Outside Ballroom 20" is that a new spot for this sort of thing?

They probably just mean Sails, which is right by Ballroom 20.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: mark on July 02, 2018, 08:32:07 AM
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They probably just mean Sails, which is right by Ballroom 20.

Ah got it. My not-yet-caffeinated brain was thinking Indigo and wondering if they were trying to spread things out
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angology on July 02, 2018, 08:39:13 AM
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"Outside Ballroom 20" is that a new spot for this sort of thing?
Yeah, I am wondering where that is (Okay, I know where it is in general lol).

Also-these types of signings were always conducted this way, and weren't part of the morning lotteries (talking the big studio ones-they are obviously in the morning in these examples). Some didn't even use wristbands. I did a few of these that were just walk up and get in line right after the panel (or during if the signing was your priority). The more popular ones did use wristbands though. I think the lottery portal is really just for the big ones that had the massive lines. Although I could see some smaller ones using it for convenience.

I just wish Marvel was using it.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: DRWHO42 on July 02, 2018, 09:19:51 AM
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They probably just mean Sails, which is right by Ballroom 20.
Technically the line for this will be right on the corner just outside of BR20. They will hold you there until the actual drawing at which time you will be escorted to the chute(s) for the drawing in Sails.

My recommendation to those interested in participating is to ask the staff the location of the line when they reach the BR20 area before going into Sails. This avoids challenges backtracking.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Totorozzz on July 02, 2018, 05:26:26 PM
It looks like autograph lottery slots are up on the Exclusives page for Comic Con.. They are scattered by Date/Time along with the exclusive merchandise slots.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: SamTurtledove on July 02, 2018, 05:28:57 PM
DC Comics, Fox, and WBTV.

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It looks like autograph lottery slots are up on the Exclusives page for Comic Con.. They are scattered by Date/Time along with the exclusive merchandise slots.

For emphasis!

https://www.comic-con.org/cci/2018/exclusive-signings

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/cbc7619690e7fb54be185e10651a6deb.jpg)
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Angology on July 02, 2018, 08:30:46 PM
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DC Comics, Fox, and WBTV.

For emphasis!

https://www.comic-con.org/cci/2018/exclusive-signings

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/cbc7619690e7fb54be185e10651a6deb.jpg)
Global moderators-can one of you put a calendar link? I'd like to capture the deadline and have it as a reminder with this thread.
Title: Re: A new auto signing procedure for the WB at SDCC?
Post by: Devorah on July 02, 2018, 09:06:15 PM
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Global moderators-can one of you put a calendar link? I'd like to capture the deadline and have it as a reminder with this thread.

I did it. And I accidentally changed the text of the original post. Can’t figure out how to put it back so...sorry Morris. My brain is SDCC fried, good night I’m done!