Why do I have to collect Karma to have my ratings count?

Fair, objective ratings are essential to the jovoto idea. Each user needs to be aware of the responsibility he or she has when rating ideas. We do not want people signing up only to rate for their peers once - and maybe even rate down other ideas. Moreover, we have to prevent such behaviour having an influence on the projects results. That's why we link rating to karma - hence, before your rating counts, you have to engage with and contribute to the community. Your engagement and the quality of this engagement is measured by Karma points.

Keep fairness in mind!