Editorial Policy
I’m Wayne Kocher, and TrayEdit is just me. I build, test, and edit everything you see here. This policy lays out how I pick topics, evaluate stands, fact-check claims, disclose money ties, fix mistakes, and keep the site independent—so you know exactly how I work.
Contents
Mission & Scope
TrayEdit exists to help you plan, build, repair, finish, and style tiered tray stands—especially wooden stands. I focus on how‑to guides, printable templates, troubleshooting, and product reviews that you can replicate at home.
- Primary topics: build guides, materials, tools, safety, maintenance, styling.
- Secondary topics: metal/ceramic stands when relevant to buyers.
- See also: Review & Testing Methodology and Resources & Templates.
Editorial Independence
I don’t sell tray stands. I don’t accept payment to write, change, or delay content. No brand previews or approvals.
- Most products are purchased at retail. If a sample is provided, I disclose it in the review.
- Scores and recommendations are based on documented tests and comparisons, not sponsorships.
- Affiliate relationships never change scores. Details: Affiliate Disclosure.
Topic & Product Selection
I select topics based on reader questions, search demand relevant to tiered tray stands, and what’s practical to build or buy. When I cover retail products, I choose widely available models and popular sizes first.
- I avoid duplicate concepts that would confuse readers or cannibalize intent.
- When a product is unavailable or replaced, I note it and update the article.
- Examples of coverage: Guides, Materials & Tools, Reviews, Styling & Decor.
Hands‑On Testing
I build and test using the same processes I publish. Tests are repeatable with basic shop tools. The full rubric and tools are documented here: How I Test Tiered Tray Stands.
| Area | Examples | Where recorded |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Wobble, racking, tip‑angle, base ratio | Review notes & score breakdown |
| Build quality | Hole alignment, hardware fit, inserts | Close‑up photos & notes |
| Materials & finish | Species/gauge check, pencil hardness, stain test | Review notes |
| Assembly | Time, clarity, spare hardware | Unboxing & step logs |
| Capacity | Usable area, clearance | Measurements |
| Safety | Edge finishing, load behavior | Review notes |
Sourcing & Citations
- Specifications and claims are checked against packaging, manuals, and manufacturer pages.
- External references (standards, finishing data) are cited in‑text when used.
- When facts aren’t verifiable, I say so and explain how I estimated.
Fact‑Checking & Review Flow
- Research & outline based on reader needs and prior TrayEdit guides.
- Hands‑on testing for builds or products.
- Draft with clear steps, photos, and internal links.
- Verification of measurements, claims, and safety notes.
- Quality check for scannability and consistency with this policy.
- Publish with date and change log; monitor comments and emails.
If a brand points out an error with evidence, I re‑check and correct quickly (see Corrections Policy).
Ratings, Updates & Retests
- Scores follow the rubric in Methodology and are rounded to whole numbers.
- When designs change, I update notes or scores and mark the change in the article’s change log.
- Long‑term notes are added after extended use or reader reports.
Corrections Policy
I correct factual errors promptly and transparently.
- Minor fixes (typos/grammar) are made without a log note.
- Substantive fixes (dimensions, scores, safety guidance) get a visible note at the end of the article.
- To request a correction, email me via Contact with a link, the issue, and your source.
Photos, Images & Edits
- I shoot original build and teardown photos whenever possible. Cropping/exposure edits only.
- When using manufacturer images, I credit and use them only to identify the product.
- Illustrations and templates are created in‑house. Captions clarify when a scene is illustrative.
Monetization & Affiliate Links
Some articles include links to retailers. If you buy through those links, TrayEdit may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund testing and templates.
- Affiliate links are disclosed near the first such link and in the site‑wide Affiliate Disclosure.
- Editorial decisions and scores are independent of affiliate partnerships.
- No paid placements in rankings or roundups.
Advertising & Sponsorships
TrayEdit currently doesn’t sell display ads or paid sponsorships. If that changes, placements will be labeled “Advertisement” or “Sponsored,” and sponsors won’t review or approve editorial content.
Gifts, Samples & Conflicts of Interest
- Unsolicited samples may be accepted for evaluation and are disclosed in the review.
- Samples don’t guarantee coverage or positive outcomes. I donate, return, or keep samples per legal and tax rules.
- I don’t hold financial interests in brands I cover. If a potential conflict appears, I disclose it and recuse from recommendations.
Privacy & Data
I collect minimal information needed to run the site (analytics, email signups). For details, see the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Accessibility
- Readable typography, high contrast, and descriptive link text.
- Alt text for meaningful images and labels for form fields.
- If you hit an accessibility issue, contact me and I’ll address it.
Contact
Questions about this policy or a specific article? Contact me. I reply as quickly as I can.
Change Log
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| 2025‑10‑24 | Initial publication. Added sections on independence, affiliate links, and corrections. Linked to Methodology and Affiliate Disclosure. |
Related: About | Methodology | Affiliate Disclosure | Privacy | Terms | Sitemap