I blogged about how we conduct our download tests a few weeks ago when we opened SiteAdvisor for preview. Since then, a lot of people have asked me to clarify what our “nuisance score” means. I usually explain that it represents a synthesis of all the data we collect about a particular download. For example, a download which resets my default home page is annoying, but not fatal. Low score. A download which calls on well known ad-servers or installs multiple contextual ad programs gives me great angst. High score. Do a bunch of bad things and the score goes up. (The question was asked often enough that I put a description in our FAQ.)
But I think another more useful way to help explain the score is to look at some examples. In fact, today, I am inaugurating what will become a regular blog feature – a look at five downloads which really tip our nuisance meter.