Implement Guest Testimonial Feature

[loftwah]

We need to add a testimonial feature that allows guests to leave testimonials for users without requiring an account. This feature should be designed to be as useful and user-friendly as possible.

Key Requirements:

• Guests should be able to leave testimonials without creating an account
• The feature should be integrated seamlessly into the user's profile page
• Testimonials should be moderated to prevent abuse
• Users should have control over which testimonials are displayed on their profile

Tasks:

1. Database Schema:

   • Create a 'testimonials' table with fields for content, author name, user_id (recipient), status (pending/approved/rejected), and timestamps

2. Model:

   • Create a Testimonial model with appropriate validations and associations

3. Controller:

   • Implement a TestimonialsController with actions for create, update (for moderation), and destroy

4. Views:

   • Add a form on user profile pages for guests to submit testimonials
   • Create a testimonial display section on user profiles
   • Implement a testimonial management interface for users to approve/reject testimonials

5. Anti-Spam Measures:

   • Implement CAPTCHA or similar verification for guest submissions
   • Add rate limiting to prevent excessive submissions from a single IP

6. Moderation System:

   • Create an interface for users to review and moderate testimonials
   • Implement email notifications for new testimonials awaiting moderation

7. Display Options:

   • Allow users to choose how many testimonials to display on their profile
   • Implement sorting options (e.g., most recent, highest rated)

8. Optional Rating System:

   • Consider adding a star rating alongside text testimonials

9. Privacy Controls:

   • Allow users to disable the testimonial feature entirely if they choose

10. API Integration:

    • Update the API to include endpoints for submitting and retrieving testimonials

11. Testing:

    • Write unit tests for the Testimonial model
    • Implement integration tests for the testimonial submission and moderation process
    • Perform thorough security testing to prevent common vulnerabilities

12. Documentation:

    • Update user documentation to explain the testimonial feature
    • Create guidelines for appropriate testimonial content

13. Performance Considerations:

    • Implement caching for approved testimonials to reduce database load
    • Consider pagination for users with many testimonials

This feature will add social proof to user profiles and increase engagement on the platform while maintaining user control and preventing abuse.