In the art forms you are experienced or well versed in, what kinds of stuff is notorious for being only liked by the experts, and what kinds of stuff is notorious for only being liked by less experienced or educated casual consumers? [more inside]
posted by idiopath on Sep 6, 2009 - 159 answers

About every 3 months, I receive an email asking me to join this company's [The Round Table Group (http://www.roundtablegroup.com/)] network of experts as a consultant. Is it worth my time? Is it a rotten deal? Are they blowing smoke? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Aug 18, 2009 - 4 answers

Looking to replace an old refrigerator - where can I find reliable ratings / reviews online (that I don't need a subscription for)? [more inside]
posted by crookedgrin on Apr 6, 2009 - 5 answers

Can anyone recommend a simple web-based tool to compile and manage an "experts list?" [more inside]
posted by rev- on Dec 11, 2007 - 7 answers

I am trying to find/identify a story about a customer with some problem (plumbing maybe?) and calls in an expert to fix it. The expert fixes the problem in some trivial way (turning a valve?) The customer then refuses to pay the expert's fee for such a simple fix. the punchline comes when the expert replies that his fee isn't for turning the valve, it's for knowing *which* valve to turn.
posted by mrgoldenbrown on Aug 9, 2007 - 10 answers

I run a computer service. I have an issue that is a bit outside the bounds. I have a client who has been using an Excel spreadsheet to track his portfolio. It is pre-formatted for him to enter data and the formulas are all there. Just recently, it started calculating some things incorrectly. The person who originally set it up just passed away earlier this year. We need an Excel expert that can look at the file and don't know where to begin to find one. Checked the local community college but no dice. All ideas or pointers are appreciated.
posted by titans13 on Aug 17, 2006 - 11 answers

8 unit condo in Jersey City needs an energy (HVAC, heating) consultant to look at our boiler and heating system and advise us on how to lower our heating bills. We are keen to consider green options but economy is the main criterion. Thank you for your recommendations and advice. [more inside]
posted by johoney on Jul 20, 2006 - 1 answer

A couple of months ago I read an article that stated that world class athletes or musicians were not that much more talented than other people: they just worked harder. Does anybody know which article I mean? I am also interested to learn other opinions about this. How good can you become if you are very motivated and willing to invest the time? My personal interest is in long distance running, but I am also interested in general stories/opinions/articles.
posted by davar on May 13, 2006 - 23 answers

How can I become an expert at C++ quickly? I know that the real answer is "lots of experience and work", but I would appreciate some tips on how to get from here to there as efficiently as possible. [MI] [more inside]
posted by breath on Feb 5, 2005 - 24 answers