The current points airdrop mechanism has created a win-lose situation, benefiting neither the project side nor the real community. (Background: The Magic Eden airdrop is coming! Predictions on $ME token economics, valuation, and redemption rules) (Additional context: Did Polymarket hint that the 'token airdrop' participants in the Taiwanese presidential election were doomed?) Points and airdrops are dead; more accurately, they can no longer achieve the expected effects. It is time to rethink the goals of points airdrops and how to make them more effective. Why have points and airdrops failed? Initially, points and airdrops were designed to build communities and reward true contributors. However, they have now become a standard checkbox that is ticked in almost every project launch plan. As a result, the goals of 'community building' and 'rewarding contributors' have not been achieved; instead, professional 'airdrop hunters' have flooded in, exploiting these systems for personal gain. Projects invest resources into airdrops, only to face FUD and token dumping. This is a win-lose situation, benefiting neither the project nor the real community. The deep-rooted reasons for the current win-lose situation are as follows: Delayed TGE and depreciating points: Many projects initially offered points with the promise of future token redemption. However, frequent TGE delays can frustrate users, leading to point accumulation exceeding initial predictions, thus diluting their value. If the future value of these points is unclear, they are nothing but unsecured IOUs, undermining community participation. Exchange listing challenges: Points are often promoted as a precursor to token listings on major exchanges. However, as listings become increasingly difficult to guarantee, community trust in these systems gradually weakens, thus diminishing user interest and participation. Airdrop mining dilutes rewards: Airdrops were once a way to reward early loyal users, but are now exploited by airdrop witches using multiple wallets solely for rewards. While these activities may temporarily boost on-chain metrics, they ultimately dilute the rewards for real users, deviating from the original intention of building a loyal community. Controversial analysis tools: Some projects use on-chain analysis to combat airdrop mining behavior, but these measures can mistakenly identify real users. Coupled with uncontrolled airdrop hunting behavior, this could ultimately harm the project's reputation, creating an environment where loyal users feel overlooked while speculators benefit. Conflicts of interest: Internal digging (team members or insiders using insider information for gain) can create distrust within the community and undermine the project's credibility. How can we improve the points and airdrop system? What is the true purpose of points and airdrops? I believe their core goal should be to unite the community around a shared vision, rather than fostering a PvP culture. 1. Spread a culture, not just a product Projects should have clear cultural attributes that resonate with the community. Establishing this unique cultural connection is key, especially in a competitive space where users have multiple options. Culture can become the differentiating factor that attracts genuine participation. 2. Set unified goals for the community Coordinate the community around a clear overarching goal, making it a shared mission so that community members see their efforts contributing to achieving common objectives. 3. Link project milestones with points and airdrops Connect rewards with key project milestones, so that as the project develops, the community's returns will increase accordingly. This structure allows users to be involved in the project's success and fosters a sense of shared progress. 4. Establish a tiered reward system Design a reward structure that offers short-term incentives (i.e., lottery), mid-term rewards (i.e., profit sharing), and long-term loyalty incentives (i.e., voting rights and reputation). This approach provides users with ongoing reasons to participate, allowing them to feel the rewards of early and continued involvement. By shifting the focus from tokens to genuine community coordination, projects can not only cultivate users but also foster advocates. After all, the most successful communities are built on shared culture, goals, and trust. Users gain sustainable returns, projects have loyal communities, and ultimately, a win-win situation is achieved. Related reports: Arkham launches derivatives exchange! Early points can airdrop $ARK, boosting it by 17% in one day. Grass airdrop surges after fluctuations! What is the charm of the combination of AI and DePIN? Is OpenSea about to launch a token airdrop? Announcing the release of version 2.0 in December, can it save the sluggish NFT market? "The points system has become a tool for airdrop hunters to profit; four suggestions for improving airdrop strategies" was originally published on BlockTempo (the most influential blockchain news media).