In one embodiment, a method includes obtaining a plurality of ratings associated with an element, where the plurality of ratings includes at least a first rating and a second rating. The method also includes applying a first weighting factor to the first rating and applying a second weighting factor to the second rating. The first weighting factor is different from the second weighting factor. Finally, the method includes determining a cumulative rating using the first weighting factor, the second weighting factor, and the plurality of ratings. The cumulative rating is associated with the element and the second weighting factor is arranged to discount the second rating.