Changes on Quora: Algorithm Shifts and Content Quality

The platform Quora has undergone several transformations in recent times, impacting how users navigate and engage with the content. This article explores these changes, focusing on how the algorithm has evolved and its potential consequences on user experience and content quality.

Algorithm Changes and Content Navigability

Users of Quora often notice alterations in the algorithm, which can significantly affect their experience. For instance, the ratio of certain types of questions has changed, and this can shift the nature of content displayed. One common issue reported by users is the presence of irrelevant questions within specific topic pages. Previously, users would click on a topic to find focused questions but now, they are often overwhelmed with a wide range of unrelated topics. Furthermore, the number of questions displayed under the "Answer" option can vary widely, sometimes limiting the number of questions to only 5-10 even if the topic has a significant number of articles. This can be particularly frustrating for those seeking specific information.

Another notable shift is the limitation on sorting questions by recency. Historically, Quora allowed users to sort questions by when they were posted, making it easier to find the most recent and relevant content. However, these sorting options have been largely eliminated, leaving users less control over their feeds. This change has been met with criticism, as users find it increasingly difficult to identify the most up-to-date and informative content within their preferred topics.

Impact on Specific Topics and Home Feeds

Users have also observed changes in their home feeds. These changes appear to be algorithm-driven and can result in the display of content that seems out of place or irrelevant. For example, a user noticed that clicking on a specific topic might show a mix of questions that do not belong, significantly reducing the number of relevant questions presented. This can make it challenging to find and engage with high-quality content related to the topic of interest.

The home feed's algorithm also seems to have a skewed idea of what content is suitable for the user. While personal preferences vary, some users find that the feed displays a mix of topics and questions that may not align with their interests, leading to a less fulfilling user experience.

Monitoring and Content Moderation

Aside from algorithmic changes, content moderation has also been a point of discussion. Recently, Quora faced criticism for how it handles comments and content submissions. In February 2020, Quora moderator QM raised concerns about two innocuous comments that were flagged. One of these comments, which was related to Indian cuisine, was not accepted, leading some users to wonder if there was a pattern or if it was a case of human oversight being lacking.

Another example highlights the complexity of moderation. A user commented on a question about bread shapes, asking for more information about the flour usage. This comment was removed for violating standards, with some speculating that it might have been due to the French term "batard," which can mean both a type of bread and "bastard." This incident underscores the challenges of content moderation, especially when dealing with nuanced language and cultural references.

Personal Experiences and Future Outlook

Overall, these changes have led to a mixed experience for Quora users. While some find the platform less navigable and more cluttered, others appreciate the algorithm for changing the dynamics of content engagement. The key to navigating these changes lies in understanding the shifts and adapting to the new landscape.

The future of Quora will likely depend on how effectively these changes are implemented and how well they serve the diverse needs of its user base. As an ongoing platform, Quora will continue to evolve, shaping the way content is shared and discovered on the platform.