Signature campaign is one of the best way to advertise or promote ICO or any project in crypto world, that is why i do not think this method will be removed in this forum. About merit system if all the campaign manager make it a basis i think many shit poster will not be able to join in the campaign.
Correct, signature campaign was used by many ICO developer to promote their coin specially if trusted or higher ranked member of this forum wear the signature of their project it has a big impact to many investors because it also one of the basis for good ICO.
Yes, now merit system was included in selecting participants in signature campaign that is why it is a real nightmare for the spammers.
Correct, I think I may have seen a campaign by Yahoo62278 where there was a bonus for people with a certain level of merit.
It may even become a requirement by applicants in the future,
where if you have not reached a certain merit you wont qualify to participate.
Merit is a clear indication that a member is contributing positively to the content of the forum.
As for signatures being removed, I cannot see it happening,
the signatures add so much on a few levels to the forum and with the merit system in place it will improve the posts by signature participants,
it should be an upwards spiral of sorts.