Update: Fair Exposure and Popular Browse

On January 24th, 2012, we released an hq journal regarding Popular results for Browse. In this journal, we described Fair Exposure -- deviantART's algorithm for Popular browse results.  Fair Exposure's goal is to showcase the most popular deviations in a variety of styles, genres, and art forms, without bias towards a particular topic.

Since the release of our Fair Exposure announcement, especially in the last handful of weeks, we've noticed a concerted, dedicated effort made by deviants, or groups of deviants, to specifically beat (or "game") the system.  Deviations have been intentionally miscategorized in hopes of having them appear "higher" in Popular results.  This has, rightfully so, resulted in complaints from deviants who submit to deviantART in a fair and honest manner.   




The engineers who make up deviantART's Search team are well aware of the current issues and concerns regarding Fair Exposure.  They're already hard at work on Fair Exposure algorithm enhancements that will be significantly more robust when it comes to miscategorization (in addition to a number of other upgrades).  Please know that we're constantly working to maintain Fair Exposure's inherently impartial nature.

In the meantime, while those enhancements are still being refined, swift action will be taken against any deviant who is found to be purposely and/or flagrantly manipulating Fair Exposure.  Such action might include a site suspension or ban.




Fair Exposure is important in order to truly bring to light the depth and breadth of the work submitted to deviantART daily, with an aim to appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes and interests.  It's equally as important that we keep Fair Exposure healthy and functioning appropriately, as to ensure that deviations on display are truly deserving.

Thank you for your feedback and continued patience as we work to build an optimal browsing experience.

~Heidi