I'm fully aware that this has been suggested previously, but what I have read had nothing constructive and didn't even contrast the differences between the two systems nor was the original poster clear about why they appreciated the infraction system, they just said they would like for it to be added period. So, I am going to give you my pro/con breakdown of why I feel the infraction system should either be available from the get-go or at least an alternate option (user has a say in whether he/she would like an infraction system or a warning system).
Let's start off with the current system, shall we? The current warning system is conducive, it's efficient, and gets the message across to the user that is breaching the forum's rules of conduct. There are various levels of offence and different % warnings that are applied to the user's account, and even provides a warning log so you may view the user's past offences to determine if there should be a more severe warning level. Then there's even a 'ban user on x warning %' feature that is perfect for dealing out punishment efficiently and accurately, without fail. The warning system is a very well structured system and it is encouraged that many use it. However, I remain true to the infraction system. Below I explain why I appreciate the infraction system.
As mentioned above, the warning system is a rather conducive feature. However, I favor the infraction system over the warning system. Yeah, both are the same exact thing, but I like to use definitions of words to contrast these systems. An infraction is a black mark, if you will, on your account/record and points are added based on severity. For example, my car accident was a 2 point infraction on my driving record; if the car was totaled it would have been a 4 point infraction, I believe. Now, a warning is a reminder of the rules and is meant to set you straight before you receive an infraction on your record and/or profile. Police officers have the option to give a ticket (essentially a warning) if they feel like they just need a mere reminder, but if they feel like they have committed a serious enough act and/or crime, an arrest (an infraction, essentially, with punishment attached (kind of like a ban if you think about it) to this infraction) is issued. The warning system doesn't display this kind of punishment. Yeah, there are percentages, but it is still labeled as a warning, which I do not like. First time fine, I get it, that's a warning. The 5th time and it's still being labeled as a warning? Doesn't seem like a warning the 5th time around. The 5th time around it's basically an increased punishment and points being added to your record; not a warning anymore.
