Thanks for the in depth response, I appreciate it.
Regarding the funding, I would imagine just getting some consulting work done would be feasible using the SPS, or perhaps steemit,inc funds as opposed to a full time position? Inc seems much more open to trying things now than they were 2 years ago when you suggested something similar, perhaps it's worth bringing up again?
It may not be worth the money, but paying someone/someones to come in and outline what they think the best economic setup is for long term success might be all we really need. I can't imagine a consulting job like that would break the bank, though I can't say for sure what that might cost.
Getting a professional in economics and a professional in social media to help guide us in the right direction seems like the right move to me if they/we really want to make this a success instead of having everyone on here play economist or social media expert.
Other people have brought it up repeatedly. It's not an obscure idea.
That being said I agree with you they are open to more input, and I think something like this could have a chance to happen if the Steem price ever recovers and Steemit's budget (as well as SPS budget) improves to the point where there is more interest in expanding/hiring.
I would reiterate though, that relevant and highly-qualified economists and social media experts are in high demand, with in some cases almost unbelievable levels of compensation available from big tech companies and well-funded blockchain projects, and such expertise won't come cheap nor will it be easy to find someone like this looking for work.
I would actually somewhat fear Steemit bringing in some marginally qualified B players with poor understanding and bad ideas and it doing more harm than good. I don't think that is without basis.