I agree with not discussing bans on the forums since it seems to only start heated arguments/FUD.
As for the external websites, this requires more detail. Can another player get you banned for reporting something you said on an external site? Because anyone can pretend to be someone they're not to get someone else banned. Please clarify.
What they're referring to is criticism performed with the intention to harm someone, derogate and destroy someone's creation, prestige, reputation and self-esteem.
How do you give constructive criticism?
1.) You start off by focusing on the strengths — what you like about the item in question.
2.) Then, you provide the criticism — things you didn’t like; the areas of improvement.
3.) Lastly, you round off the feedback with (a) a reiteration of the positive comments you gave at the beginning and (b) the positive results that can be expected if the criticism is acted upon.
Here’s an example: you want to critique someone on their website. Here’s how PIP can be used:
1.) First layer, “P” for Positive, where you talk about what you like: “Great website! I love the overall layout and how user-friendly it is. The menu is easily accessible. The overall design is nice and pleasing to the eye, and consistent with your brand. I found the intro video helpful in giving me an overview of what you do.”
2.) Second layer, “I” for Improve, where you talk about the areas of improvement: “However, I thought that there are two things that can be better. Firstly, there is a lot of content in the sidebar that clutters up the usage experience. Perhaps if the sidebar content can be narrowed down to the key things, it would make it easier to navigate. Secondly, the font size is too small for me. I found it hard to read as I had to keep squinting.”
3.) Last layer, “P” for Positive, where you reiterate the positive points and the positive results to be expected when the improvement areas are worked on: “Overall, great work. I love what you’ve done with the design, layout, and intro video. I think if the sidebar clutter can be removed and the font size can be increased, it’d really create a fantastic usage experience for any visitor.”
