Here's a thought....

Currently the system for getting DMs to build/make things that PCs want is unwieldy in my opinion. I see numerous IC signs, flyers and notices created requesting crafters of various types quite frequently. There is obviously a steady demand for some mechanism by which PCs can get work done for them IG.

Maybe from the DM POV the existing process is fine, but for many players it seems unclear and awkward.

If someone wants a statue made and placed in their faction area here's the current SOP.

1. Make a vague letter to "Sculptors of Sanctuary" knowing full well only DMs can do this, so essentially it's addressed to the DMs and is - FORUM WORK, which they don't really like.

2. Bother DMs that are usually busy and spread too thin as it is on the DM channel IG. "Can I get you to uh, possess some NPC and order a statue?" The DM responds 3 minutes later, "Sorry, am playing Grubalubdub the goblin king and in a battle with 10 PCs of another faction," then rolls his eyes about the dork asking for a silly statue.

3. Send in an app - "Why I want a statue for my faction." More beauracracy, tedious, and seems silly. Q - How will this be fun for you and others? A - Uh, our headquarters will be cooler.

4. Grab a DM on IRC, pull them out of whatever conversation they are in with their friends, and ask for a statue, with hat in hand and big kitty eyes.

I'm exaggerating, but that's a shade of what it seems like from my POV.

...

WHAT IF, there were various NPC shops in Upper where you can "ring a bell" like when we try to summon a member of the Watch or Spellguard, leave your name , and the DM can make a sending that they will see you now to "place your order".

OR

Have a forum where you put in work orders for various craftsman so they are all in one place. Then the DMs can respond to it via letter, or send the player a TELL IG to let them know that crafter is "IN" and can speak to them about their order.

The numerous Bilby requests could be made this way as well.

Just a suggestion.

We'll just invent NPC's to build your things for you if we think your player faction is awesome enough. As it stands, DM factions have privy to this, and you are instead encouraged to join these if you want to take part in them instead. (SEE: Council, Watch, Spellguard, Seekers...)

Make your intentions known, and if your group is awesome, we will make it happen. If there's no real purpose to the group in question, and it's clear the goals are forced, vague, or boring, you probably won't see much construction.

I like things just the way they are, and quite honestly don't see them changing drastically anytime soon.

That makes sense, and it's certainly hard to argue with that logic.

Appreciate the well stated and very clear response.