[TenPercenter]

We frequently have reported posts/auctions for sales or promos that some consider "commercial" and some do not (The "do not" usually start with the poster)

To be fair, I'd like to get everyone's help on better define "commercial" so that we can avoid feelings of discrimination. Once we are happy with it, we'll edit the FAQ to include this definition.

Remember, the purpose of the policy against commercial use of the "personal" sales areas is twofold: 1) Protect the members who are selling personal stuff so they don't have to compete against commercial entities, and 2) Protect the paying sponsors so they do not compete against competitors who use the "free" channels like Auctions and Classifieds.

I don't want to get so specific so that we are nailed by semantics, but we need to get more specific than just saying "you're making a profit." Since many of us will use an occasional opportunity to buy chips low and sell them high, there is a distinction somewhere between that person and a person that buys 10,000 at once, or buys/sells 1000 every week (see how that's too specific?).

I propose to start, this phrase (partially taken from Wikipedia). Please make suggestions on any changes:

Commercial is defined as an action done by (or at the prompting of) a company or individual for the intent of making a profit. It is economic in nature and usually has the intent of convincing the audience to partake in a particular action, often purchasing a product or service. "Personal" sales/promotions may also be considered Commercial if done on a regular basis or in large enough quantities to not be mistaken as personal.