Why can't I add or edit topics to Quora questions as of 2/25/23?

Up until February 2nd, 2023, the Quora community was accustomed to being able to add and edit question topics. However, recent updates to the platform have caused consternation among users who have found the editing feature retired. This change has led to a substantial shift in the way users contribute and interact with content on the platform. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this change and what it means for Quora users.

Reasons for the Change

According to Quora staff, the primary reason for removing the ability to edit topics on questions is to address an issue with trolls abusing the feature. Trolls, as you may know, are users who create content for the purpose of disrupting the community or eliciting reactions. To reduce the workload on human moderators, Quora has shifted towards more automated and individual moderation systems. This change aims to provide a more seamless and personalized experience for each user, reducing the need for constant human oversight on every aspect of the platform.

Effect on User Experience

As a result of these changes, many users are now frustrated with the lack of flexibility when it comes to adding or editing question topics. For instance, an experienced user, who previously enjoyed the ability to refine and optimize their answer contribution process, is now facing significant restrictions. This change means that users like me must rely entirely on the system-generated topics, which often do not align with the actual content of the questions.

User Reactions and Community Feedback

The sudden change in rules was met with swift and broad negative feedback. Many users have shared their disappointment and frustration through comments and discussions. It is clear that the community feels strongly about maintaining control over the topics associated with their questions, as these topics are essential for ensuring that their answers are visible to the right audience.

As explained in a post on Quora's official blog, the advancements in their systems give them confidence that automated content delivery systems can deliver relevance and interest more effectively. However, for many users, this does not reflect the reality of the situation. The questions and answers they produce have evolved significantly over time, but the QTB (Question Topic Builder) fails to keep up with this evolution. Users are forced to manually edit topics on a significant number of questions, a process that can be both time-consuming and frustrating.

Impact on Answering Frequency

This change has had a notable impact on my own behavior on the platform. Previously, I would consistently write between 10 to 20 answers per day. However, the lack of topic editing options has resulted in extended periods where I am unable to contribute due to the need to manually edit topics. This shift in user behavior highlights the importance of user control and personalization in online communities.

Conclusion

The retirement of the topic editing feature on Quora is a significant change that has affected the way users interact with the platform. While the intention behind the change is to improve the user experience, it has been met with strong resistance from the community. As a result, many users are seeking alternative ways to maintain control over their contributions and ensure that their answers are effectively shared with the right audience. The future of Quora will depend on how well the platform addresses these concerns and continues to balance the needs of its users with its own technological advancements.