Forum Redesign questions, concerns, comments...

[chris]

Most of you will notice a major difference in the design of the forums at EIC. The idea was to bring the changes implemented on the homepage to the forums. I also worked on the icons throughout the forum to provide improved usability. I think the icon changes depicting new posts, hot threads, threads where you've posted are easier to discern.

Everything is also a lot lighter, so should make for a faster browsing experience.

Please give it a chance and I hope you enjoy the changes.

Finally, avatar size has been increased to 148px x 148px.


BTW, I'm open to comments, suggestions, etc. You can expect I'll be tweaking things as we go along.


Icon Descriptions:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/images/forum/forum-changes.jpg

[iNinja]

Love the new post buttons and colour scheme, however, I think that the new member labels arent as nice... look a little basic.. Just my 2 cents worth though.

Also, some of the icons on the forum dont really match the description as described by seanwes

"The alt text for this camera-looking icon is "wink"."

[chris]

Love the new post buttons and colour scheme, however, I think that the new member labels arent as nice... look a little basic.. Just my 2 cents worth though.

Also, some of the icons on the forum dont really match the description as described by seanwes

"The alt text for this camera-looking icon is "wink"."

I'm going to redo the badges. Wanted to get the new design up, but didn't want to use the old ones.

[chris]

BTW, with the changes comes Google Site Search. I've tested it out and it works real well. For those who prefer the forum search, you can find it in the toolbar.

[iNinja]

Chris, all in all I think it looks a lot better. That was by no means a criticism. Just an observation ;)

Also, the forum icons are kind of Firefox-esque... I like them! lol

[phsycology]

Ooh Nice! :D
I'll make additional comments when I've experienced it more, but on the visual level the forum's looking good! :)

[The Apple]

I like the changes. I'm sure you have to select from predesigned buttons, but if you could custom design the buttons, it would be cool if they looked like iPhone application buttons.

[cindra]

A bit hard to make out the shortcuts. Firefox on MacBook Pro

http://clhmt.com/change.png

[Youngbinks]

Yeah the shortcuts are a bit hard to read at the moment but overall I think the changes look fantastic.

[chris]

A bit hard to make out the shortcuts. Firefox on MacBook Pro



Try to refresh. Firefox on Mac is my primary browser.

[chris]

Yeah the shortcuts are a bit hard to read at the moment but overall I think the changes look fantastic.

Are you referring to the Edit, Quote, etc. buttons?

[Youngbinks]

Well, here is what I'm seeing on the Quick Tab buttons up top running Safari 4.0.1
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p91/youngbinks/Picture1-18.png

The Quote, Edit, etc. buttons all seem fine.

[trnsilver]

I agree, badges need to change...don't like the new ones at all.

Aside from that, great job.

[chris]

Well, here is what I'm seeing on the Quick Tab buttons up top running Safari 4.0.1
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p91/youngbinks/Picture1-18.png

The Quote, Edit, etc. buttons all seem fine.

Eeek! Try clearing out your cache, quitting and reloading. Also tested extensively yesterday in Safari 4.0.1 and appears to be fine.

[chris]

Do you have adblocker on? By removing the ad, you might be breaking the layout?

[Youngbinks]

Do you have adblocker on? By removing the ad, you might be breaking the layout?

You know, I should have checked it without AdBlocker to begin. I disabled it and now it all looks great.

[chris]

You know, I should have checked it without AdBlocker to begin. I disabled it and now it all looks great.

Cool. It wasn't my intention to break the site for your adblocker guys. In fact, the ads were meant to be less intrusive.

Good to hear it's working.

[Hondamaker]

I think it looks really good, Chris. More up-to-date.

[Youngbinks]

Cool. It wasn't my intention to break the site for your adblocker guys. In fact, the ads were meant to be less intrusive.

Good to hear it's working.

Well, I definitely don't use AdBlocker for EiC, it's the rest of the net that I have issues with. I just tried some custom settings to see if I could get EiC to be ignored by the software, that way the site isn't broken.

Edit:
Apparently I can't get AdBlock to do that at the moment but I'll try again a bit later.

[macgirl]

I like it so far. Need to see how easy it is to spot threads I've posted in before to give it the final thumbs up... :)

[PDACPA]

I like the icons showing if you have posted and if any updates etc.

However, the whole site seems less "bright" or "colorful" to me. Almost feels like the page did not completely load or something is missing.

[Watcher]

I think it looks cleaner and more professional looking. It looks like I'm shopping at Target. I know that sounds weird, it's just the best I could come up with. :smile:

[acosmichippo]

i really like all of the changes (especially the google search). I guess while we're making requests... is it possible to make the last post arrows ( http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/everythingicafe/buttons/lastpost.gif ) a bit bigger in the "iphone adfree" theme?

That would ease my iphone browsing experience a TON.

[Watcher]

OOoo! I've got a suggestion. At the top of the forum in the purple, the menu that has My Settings, FAQ, Member List, etc... The lettering for those should be white or a lighter color because it's rather difficult to see the black text on the dark purple background.

[acosmichippo]

Oh, and my old badge must have gotten lost in the transition. It said "supreme overlord". So whenever you get a chance, just switch it back.

thx.

[iNinja]

IS there anyway we could have alongside the "thanks" button, like a "digg" button? I always want to "digg" something but the thanks button just doesnt quite seem apt?

[ct2k7]

To be honest, I prefer the old styling options, however, with time, I'll come to like it. :)

[styfle]

IS there anyway we could have alongside the "thanks" button, like a "digg" button? I always want to "digg" something but the thanks button just doesnt quite seem apt?
The digg delicous and facebook buttons are to the left of reply, quote etc.

http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/vbseo/digg.gif (http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everythingicafe.com%2Fforum%2 Fgeneral-discussion%2Fforum-redesign-questions-concerns-comments-51007-3.html%23post483912&title=Forum+Redesign+questions%2C+concerns%2C+comm ents...)http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/vbseo/delicious.gif (http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everythingicafe.com%2Ffo rum%2Fgeneral-discussion%2Fforum-redesign-questions-concerns-comments-51007-3.html%23post483912&title=Forum+Redesign+questions%2C+concerns%2C+comm ents...)

I like most of the changes but the badges seem plain. Everything went from 3D to 2D. Like the topic icons are half and half http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon6.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon4.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon8.gif

[seanwes]

I like it. It integrates with the forum colors. Will take a few days to get used to, but it's already growing on me.

Like Croucher, I would love a digg-style "+1" for posts in addition to the thanks, but I know that is a lot more work than it seems.

[acosmichippo]

i like the 2D-ness.

It's got a clean modern-retro look about it.

[seanwes]

The digg delicous and facebook buttons are to the left of reply, quote etc.

I think he meants more of what I was saying in my previous post. Something more along the lines of a Facebook "like this" button.

I like most of the changes but the badges seem plain. Everything went from 3D to 2D. Like the topic icons are half and half http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon6.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon4.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.gif http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/images/icons/icon8.gif

I see what you're saying, but I think it declutters it. Those icons don't need to steal much of your intention, and I think by making them "quieter", it helps readability.

[styfle]

I see what you're saying, but I think it declutters it. Those icons don't need to steal much of your intention, and I think by making them "quieter", it helps readability.

The issue I have with them is they blend in too much with the text and I can't tell it supposed to be an icon. It looks more like a symbol or something ‰ º ☼ ╚ §

I'm probably just used to the other look:foot:

[iNinja]

I think he meants more of what I was saying in my previous post. Something more along the lines of a Facebook "like this" button.
.

Exactly... I didnt realise you had already requested that. Sorry

[Watcher]

Exactly... I didnt realise you had already requested that. Sorry

Well, well, WELL!! Looky here! :wink:

[iNinja]

Well, well, WELL!! Looky here! :wink:

HAHAHA - this is exactly the type of comment I would like a "like" button for ;)

[patrickj]

Think it looks very nice and smart. Good work Chris.

[Swagger]

Last night I was a five star general. Today I am a lowly private...LOL, Mark:laugh2:

[iNinja]

Last night I was a five star general. Today I am a lowly private...LOL, Mark:laugh2:

Thats what happens when you jump ship to the Pre :)

[Swagger]

Thats what happens when you jump ship to the Pre :)

Don't I get some consideration for purchasing a 3GS??? Seriously though I liked the solid color (purple) "Status Badge" as opposed to the purple and white with the ribbon. Mark

BTW: EIC has come a long way and Chris is doing a great job. Maybe we can all pitch in and get Chris a great haircut.:laugh2:

[Hondamaker]

Where's the 'thanks' button?

[iNinja]

Don't I get some consideration for purchasing a 3GS???

I knew you would cave! ;)

Where's the 'thanks' button?

there currently isnt one on here, it was suggested that this would be a nice feature - facebook style.

[KabaModern]

Hi chris,

I do not like the badges (which has already been noted). Also, I think there is way too much gray. I feel we need some contrast between the background and the threads. Too much white and grey. I don't know, it just seems so bland. Also the icons are 2D grey, yet again. More colors, please! The simplicity is pretty extreme in this design!

Please take these constructively, as a fellow web developer. It's definitely nice to see you switching things up, though! I love the larger avatar and the purples!

Take care,

[phsycology]

Yeh the Thanks button is right there.....maybe you're out of thanks today Honda? :)

[Hondamaker]

Yeh the Thanks button is right there.....maybe you're out of thanks today Honda? :)I shouldn't be out. I think it's been 2 days since my last thanks.

[Citsur86]

I like the new look, especially the simplicity of it all. A question and a comment.

Question: Did any of the changes optimize the site as far as speed on the iPhone is concerned? Desktop/Laptop speed is negligible as it loads as quick as any site, but being a site primarily about iPhones, most users access this from the iPhone frequently. Any effort to optimize performance speed would be a plus!

Comment: The simplicity of the new design is very good. However, I feel it is missing an accent. An example is like a boquet of white roses in a bunch of green leaves. Alone it looks good, but throw some green twirley sticks or some crap in there and then it is beautiful. A gay example but one web developer/designer to another I think you get my drift. Perhaps some semi - opaque designs or accents elsewhere?

Currently its like this:
http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5128&stc=1&d=1247082349

Some Accents will make it like this:
http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=5127&stc=1&d=1247082349

[Europa]

I was having the same issue Youngbinks was having with the menu bar. I disabled Firefox Ad Blocker for EiC and the issue is resolved.

Are you sure that wasn't on purpose Chris?
I'm Just Kidding!!!!!


The new design looks Great, nice work Chris!

[Lincoln]

I think I like it pretty well so far, especially the bigger avatars and the banner at the top of the page. A couple things I'd like to point out:

The infraction and IP tracer buttons haven't been updated like the online/offline status button and the report button. I'm guessing that's because they're mod-only buttons, but just thought I'd let you know.

I think the same thing happened with the last redesign - there's not really anything distinguishing the sticky threads from regular threads other than the "Sticky:" in front of the titles. Maybe a sort of yellowish tint like there was before?

Overall, it looks great - nice work!

[gotzaiPhone]

with the exception of the quick links bar being broken for me, I think it looks great!

[chris]

with the exception of the quick links bar being broken for me, I think it looks great!

If you have an ad blocker, you'll need to turn it off when accessing the site.

[dturner]

there's not really anything distinguishing the sticky threads from regular threads other than the "Sticky:" in front of the titles. Maybe a sort of yellowish tint like there was before?

Overall, it looks great - nice work!
I agree there should be a tint of some kind tint to separate sticky threads from regular threads. Also these need some color of some sort. They are kind of hard to read.

5129

Overall I really like the new look.

[dturner]

The light blue for the Sticky's (Sticky' ?) did the trick.

[chris]

The light blue for the Sticky's (Sticky' ?) did the trick.

Cool.

Also fixed the submenu issue that was mentioned by a few people.

New topic, post reply buttons tweaked.

Going to test out new colorful Post Icons in a few.

Badges still on the to-do list.

[Hondamaker]

Had to test the thanks button. Site looks really nice, Chris! Kudos.

[acosmichippo]

too bad the menu is offset with adblock on. i can deal, i guess. i will not submit to guerrilla advertising.

[psylichon]

Agreed on the red tags and the poor contrast with the grey buttons. Everything else is peachy. Although having to disable Adblocker kinda stinks. Merely disabling it for this site doesn't seem to work for me?

Now I need to go make a bigger avatar. :)

[acosmichippo]

adding a "don't block" filter for EiC in Safari adblock "works"... but i'd rather have a jumbled menu than advertisements.

surely there must be a way to code it so it looks good regardless of blocking, but i can't blame the administration for not wanting to cater to adblockers.









and i am STILL missing my supreme overlord badge.

[psylichon]

I got AdBlocker to behave now. Thanks.

Hey Chris, one thing I've always wanted at this site is better use of my screen real-estate, horizontally. I think a lot of us are sporting widescreen monitors these days (I'm lookin' at you, Mac people!) The forum uses less than half of my screen. How hard of a mod is that?

[acosmichippo]

i'm making progress adding and modding filters for Firefox adblock plus... i think i now have it set to block the ads without removing the frame so everything is still laid-out properly.

unfortunately, safari adblock doesn't seem to have the advanced options needed to do this...

[acosmichippo]

as of now, using this filter (and ONLY this filter):

##[id*="google_ad"]

seems to do the trick for EiC. This works for firefox only. I've not been able to figure out how to add this to safari adblock... i don't think it's possible as it doesn't allow you to type in your own filters - it just "computes" them.



so IOW, if you enable that one, and disable all other filters, EiC should look nice and clean. Looks like this:

http://img.skitch.com/20090708-pcsj2tda7935ety35218bwuqea.png

[Swagger]

Chris,
While you are working on the badges. I think people who have over 5000 posts should be given some other distinction than just Genius. They should maybe be named Genius to the 10th power or something like that. I also think taking away the stars was a mistake. Gaining stars however trivial it might have been at least gave new members a reason to get involved and earn their stars. Just my two cents. Mark


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2342/2353646750_f494dfe29a.jpg

[chris]

I agree there should be a tint of some kind tint to separate sticky threads from regular threads. Also these need some color of some sort. They are kind of hard to read.

5129

Overall I really like the new look.

These have been updated. Should be easier to read, with a splash of color, yet keeping with the overall new theme of the design.

[chris]

Hi chris,

I do not like the badges (which has already been noted). Also, I think there is way too much gray. I feel we need some contrast between the background and the threads. Too much white and grey. I don't know, it just seems so bland. Also the icons are 2D grey, yet again. More colors, please! The simplicity is pretty extreme in this design!

Please take these constructively, as a fellow web developer. It's definitely nice to see you switching things up, though! I love the larger avatar and the purples!

Take care,

Slight change to the background and you'll find more color throughout.

Badges are still in the works.

[chris]

too bad the menu is offset with adblock on. i can deal, i guess. i will not submit to guerrilla advertising.

These are likely getting moved back down into the general population of content. As you noticed, my coding causes the site to break if there are troubles with the ads -- such as blockers or simply trouble with adservers.

Lots of undoing what I've done and redoing.

[Swagger]

I got AdBlocker to behave now. Thanks.

Hey Chris, one thing I've always wanted at this site is better use of my screen real-estate, horizontally. I think a lot of us are sporting widescreen monitors these days (I'm lookin' at you, Mac people!) The forum uses less than half of my screen. How hard of a mod is that?

I've often thought the same thing. So much screen but so little used. Mark

[acosmichippo]

These are likely getting moved back down into the general population of content. As you noticed, my coding causes the site to break if there are troubles with the ads -- such as blockers or simply trouble with adservers.

Lots of undoing what I've done and redoing.

muchas gracias, senior.

everything else is a thumbs-up in my book.

[phsycology]

Love it. :)

[Ramesh]

Commenting for the subscription. :)

[Bitewound]

I think it look GREAT :D

[iCafe]

I would like to post more in this thread but if off topic finds out im in here i will be a dead man
LATER GUYS!!

[Londonrockz568]

Chris would you want to maybe add a contrast or a very slight contrast or emphasis on quoted posts? They seem to blend in.

[acosmichippo]

Commenting for the subscription. :)

you can subscribe without posting using the thread tools at the top of each thread. Granted, it's easier just to post.

[chris]

That's about it for today. Please feel free to comment and I'll check in tomorrow morning.

Any thoughts on using the purple "new topic, post reply" button scheme for the (quote, multi-quote, edit, quick, thanks)? I'm not sold on the "mixing" of icon styles when it comes to the actual buttons. Thinking it makes sense to keep consistency.

[Londonrockz568]

I liked them the other way you just had before.

Also btw, i closed Safari and reopened i also closed firefox and reopened but yet the side scroll bar is huge.

I normally keep the page as small as i can w/o the wasted space of the sides, but even when taking up all 15inches of space theres still a huge scroll bar.

[acosmichippo]

yeah, i liked the grey ones too.

[Londonrockz568]

Do we have attachment or img capabilities like in this post on a diff forum?
Im guessing something like this would help keep the forum from looking weird when someone posts a large image.

http://www.6speedonline.com/forums/997-turbo-gt2/176349-my-black-bullet.html

You see how the pictures once you click on them are kinda like a pop out? Like that.

[connie]

I just don't like the Edit, Quote, Multi, Quick, Thanks buttons at the bottom, they are ugly and they need some color, maybe purple color font to match the rest would spice it up.

[connie]

That's about it for today. Please feel free to comment and I'll check in tomorrow morning.

Any thoughts on using the purple "new topic, post reply" button scheme for the (quote, multi-quote, edit, quick, thanks)? I'm not sold on the "mixing" of icon styles when it comes to the actual buttons. Thinking it makes sense to keep consistency.

Oops, just read this, yes this is exactly what I'm talking about!

[styfle]

Ok updated review of new forum: WAYY better.
I think when I gave my first "review" it wasnt completely done changing icons and such because it looks better and loads faster now.
Thanks chris :)

[JWiPhone]

I like the changes you have made Chris. What I especially like is the color background you have used for the 'sticky' posts. That separates them from the rest of the posts and makes them stand out from the rest.

[Ramesh]

you can subscribe without posting using the thread tools at the top of each thread. Granted, it's easier just to post.

I know. I just felt like posting for no reason. ;)

[psylichon]

It really pops nicely on the iPhone! The grey post tool buttons still don't look that great, though.

[evolution83]

That's about it for today. Please feel free to comment and I'll check in tomorrow morning.

Any thoughts on using the purple "new topic, post reply" button scheme for the (quote, multi-quote, edit, quick, thanks)? I'm not sold on the "mixing" of icon styles when it comes to the actual buttons. Thinking it makes sense to keep consistency.

Yes, the multi-quote and other buttons need some color. Everything is too grayish, you need to liven up some colors around here. The purple is nice, just give some other things lacking in color some life.

It might be a cool idea to have a different set of color themes users can choose from. Most sites seem to have that, and I think it would be great on here. New emoticons would be nice, too. :)

[acosmichippo]

It really pops nicely on the iPhone! The grey post tool buttons still don't look that great, though.

The iPhone theme doesn't seem to have changed... Are you using the non-ad-free version on your iPhone?

[KabaModern]

That's about it for today. Please feel free to comment and I'll check in tomorrow morning.

Any thoughts on using the purple "new topic, post reply" button scheme for the (quote, multi-quote, edit, quick, thanks)? I'm not sold on the "mixing" of icon styles when it comes to the actual buttons. Thinking it makes sense to keep consistency.

Absolutely. That would really add that splash of color to the posts that is much needed.

[iNinja]

Started on the updates again Chris? Loving those new buttons. Have the member labels disappeared for everyone?

[aggieman]

haven't been on in a couple days so just saw the changes to the forum this morning. Looks great chris.

[ct2k7]

Ayayayayay... more changes :) New icons :)

[Swagger]

I stil think people with maybe more posts than let's say 3000 should have a different distinction than just Genius. Maybe they should be called EIC Legends. I'm not just saying that to praise myself either because I have no where near that number of posts. I just think that members that greatly contribute should be recognized differently. Again just my two cents. Mark

[chris]

I stil think people with maybe more posts than let's say 3000 should have a different distinction than just Genius. Maybe they should be called EIC Legends. I'm not just saying that to praise myself either because I have no where near that number of posts. I just think that members that greatly contribute should be recognized differently. Again just my two cents. Mark

Your posts define you as EIC legend.:tounge:

[Swagger]

Your posts define you as EIC legend.:tounge:

@Chris,
LOL I hear you on that one. Now a question: Why are some people seeing changes and others aren't? The only change I see is that the badges are gone. Everyone else except for a few like myself see no changes at all. I have refreshed my browser, closed my browser, cleared my cookies and browsing history yet I see no changes. Everyone else is going on and on about how great everything looks. I want to see it and praise you to. Am I doing something wrong? Mark

[chris]

@Chris,
LOL I hear you on that one. Now a question: Why are some people seeing changes and others aren't? The only change I see is that the badges are gone. Everyone else except for a few like myself see no changes at all. I have refreshed my browser, closed my browser, cleared my cookies and browsing history yet I see no changes. Everyone else is going on and on about how great everything looks. I want to see it and praise you to. Am I doing something wrong? Mark

You're probably reading posts that are mid-change. I must have done 10 or more revisions on the edit buttons alone.

If you don't see "green" in the main forum navigation, then you are on the new forum design.

[chris]

Actually a much easier way is to look if you have Google Custom Search up top. If you do, then you are in the new design.

[The Apple]

Where do you choose your buttons from? Is there a specific place where they could be viewed?

[KabaModern]

Definitely like the new buttons, chris. I'm anxiously awaiting the badges!

[chris]

Icons I purchase.

<-----------That guy creates the buttons.:wink:

[evolution83]

Love the updated icons (quote, multi, thx, quick)

Do something with the background of the site; why is everything so gray still? I still say allow users to choose between customer themes. New smileys too!! :D

[Swagger]

Actually a much easier way is to look if you have Google Custom Search up top. If you do, then you are in the new design.

And I don't. I am totally baffled. Mark

[chris]

And I don't. I am totally baffled. Mark

Try this link (http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/index.php?styleid=18).

[acosmichippo]

Are you browsing on the iPhone? I don't think that theme has been getting updated. The changes should be evident on a computer browser.

[Londonrockz568]

Chris make the quote boxes more noticeable. Something like or even the same as the Sticky highlight thats currently being used now which is great.

[Swagger]

Try this link (http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/index.php?styleid=18).

Yes Chris that link did the trick. I thought I was going crazy or something. Everyone else was commenting on all the new changes and I was thinking what changes. Wow I like it, looks very good. You certainly did a major upgrade and it looks great. Please keep up the good (scratch good) great work. Mark

BTW: I am browsing from my iPhone right now.

[acosmichippo]

yeah, i don't think the "iphone ad-free" theme has been getting changed.

[acosmichippo]

but now the quotes look really confusing.

[Londonrockz568]

Yeah they blend in to much with what the poster is saying. Im sure he'll work it out.

[chris]

Chris make the quote boxes more noticeable. Something like or even the same as the Sticky highlight thats currently being used now which is great.


How's this?

[eye-Fone]

The blue quoted background color seems to clash with the EIC purple theme colors. Why not have the quoted text background be a very light/faint purple with the opacity/transparency dialed down quite a bit?

Just my $0.02' worth.

[KabaModern]

How's this?

LOVE the blue background on the quoting, chris. Plays well with the sticky thread background - that definitely ties it in. No need to splash one color (purple) everywhere. I like the different colors....

THUMBS UP.

[Citsur86]

LOVE the blue background on the quoting, chris. Plays well with the sticky thread background - that definitely ties it in. No need to splash one color (purple) everywhere. I like the different colors....

THUMBS UP.

Quoting just for an example: How about making the Quote buttons below the same blue as the background as the quote color.

Even better, make the background quote color a 25%-30% Opaque version of the purple banner, then match the quote buttons to that. I know, easier said than done..

[evolution83]

The blue quoted background color seems to clash with the EIC purple theme colors. Why not have the quoted text background be a very light/faint purple with the opacity/transparency dialed down quite a bit?

Just my $0.02' worth.

LOVE the blue background on the quoting, chris. Plays well with the sticky thread background - that definitely ties it in. No need to splash one color (purple) everywhere. I like the different colors....

THUMBS UP.

I'm not seeing any blue, just gray. What's with all the gray?! LOL

[evolution83]

OK nevermind, I see the blue now lol

[Londonrockz568]

How's this?

The blue is a very faint. A little more and its perfect.

Also chris, i just noticed while making a post in OT that there is no way to know that you are multi quoting. The button doesn't change to let you know you've clicked it. It just stays the same even tho when you hit reply the multiples show up. Like before you used to click multi here, multi there and it would change to signify that you indeed have clicked multi so u knew which ones you picked.

[chris]

The blue is a very faint. A little more and its perfect.

Also chris, i just noticed while making a post in OT that there is no way to know that you are multi quoting. The button doesn't change to let you know you've clicked it. It just stays the same even tho when you hit reply the multiples show up. Like before you used to click multi here, multi there and it would change to signify that you indeed have clicked multi so u knew which ones you picked.

Both done.

[chris]

Okay, lunch...well, actually gym. Break from the redesign.

[acosmichippo]

i don't think the blue quotes and stickies look right with the magenta. A faint yellow for the stickies would be great (like a toned-down highlighter or post-it note), and a grey/beige for quotes. Magenta accented with yellow/gold would really work well, imo.

[Londonrockz568]

the blue doesn't sit well with me for some reason. Same with the stickies. I think a faint yellow for the stickies would be great (like a toned-down highlighter), and a grey/beige for quotes. Both of those colors would play nice with the magenta theme.

I think the yellow would be a bit harsh on the eyes IMHO.
Could you Pshop an example of that grey/beige? i dont think those colours go...again IMHO.

[evolution83]

May I suggest, when posting links they actually have the proper blue color instead of black? No matter what, when i try and post a link it's always in black and when I try to change the color manually it doesn't work.

[Londonrockz568]

I've also had that problem. Sometimes i think ppl will misread the link if its not in blue or a highlighted colour.

Maybe he could try the magenta/purple for the links. That would look nice.

[Swagger]

How's this?

Wow that looks great (the light blue) the quote. Mark

[Londonrockz568]

me too Mark

[evolution83]

Mark, you always crack me up with your "signature" name at the end of each post. Mark

lol

[Lincoln]

Man, why color in the quotes? I guess I'm alone here, but I think it looks like I've highlighted all the quotes on the page - very annoying, in my opinion. I had no problem with the old quote style.

The new buttons, however, look great.

[iNinja]

Man, why color in the quotes? I guess I'm alone here, but I think it looks like I've highlighted all the quotes on the page - very annoying, in my opinion. I had no problem with the old quote style.

The new buttons, however, look great.

Agreed, but I guess you cant please everyone

[evolution83]

Agreed, but I guess you cant please everyone

Yeah, like me perhaps. Tired of the gray lol.

[chris]

i don't think the blue quotes and stickies look right with the magenta. A faint yellow for the stickies would be great (like a toned-down highlighter or post-it note), and a grey/beige for quotes. Magenta accented with yellow/gold would really work well, imo.

Man, why color in the quotes? I guess I'm alone here, but I think it looks like I've highlighted all the quotes on the page - very annoying, in my opinion. I had no problem with the old quote style.

The new buttons, however, look great.

I tend to agree with this camp. There should be a slight distinction between content and quoted content. The indentation, large " and slight change in background color should be sufficient to showcase a quote.

[chris]

BTW, thanks to everyone who has updated their avatar to take advantage of the new larger 148px by 148px avatars. I think these really spruce up the look of the forums.

[Ramesh]

I'm not the only one, but I'll ask again - new smileys?

[evolution83]

BTW, thanks to everyone who has updated their avatar to take advantage of the new larger 148px by 148px avatars. I think these really spruce up the look of the forums.

Love the updated image size. I just updated my avatar. :D

I'm not the only one, but I'll ask again - new smileys?

Yes! Why not take the ones from Yahoo's! messenger list? They're available on their site.

[KabaModern]

I tend to agree with this camp. There should be a slight distinction between content and quoted content. The indentation, large " and slight change in background color should be sufficient to showcase a quote.

I liked the blue, looks like it's back to more grey now...

[chris]

Love the updated image size. I just updated my avatar. :D



Yes! Why not take the ones from Yahoo's! messenger list? They're available on their site.


Smileys are on the to-do list Mr. Scariest Avatar ever guy.

[Swagger]

BTW, thanks to everyone who has updated their avatar to take advantage of the new larger 148px by 148px avatars. I think these really spruce up the look of the forums.

Ramesh now has more room for his bug to crawl around. I am sure he is happy (he meaning the bug). LOL :laugh2: Mark

[eye-Fone]

May I suggest, when posting links they actually have the proper blue color instead of black? No matter what, when i try and post a link it's always in black and when I try to change the color manually it doesn't work.
You mean like this (http://www.gainous.com)? I always do my links like that. (btw, that link is to my photography site) :smile:

Also, thanks Chris--the grey quote block looks good!

[chris]

You mean like this (http://www.gainous.com)? I always do my links like that. (btw, that link is to my photography site) :smile:

Also, thanks Chris--the grey quote block looks good!


Perhaps I can work a more elegant solution. Those blue links are scary.

[KabaModern]

Perhaps I can work a more elegant solution. Those blue links are scary.

Agreed. Whoa! The 3D buttons are back! THANK YOU!

[eye-Fone]

Those blue links are scary.
. . . Boo! (http://boycottnovell.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/886428_boo.jpg)

.

[evolution83]

Perhaps I can work a more elegant solution. Those blue links are scary.

How are blue links scary? What about red links?

Agreed. Whoa! The 3D buttons are back! THANK YOU!

LOVE the 3D buttons!

[Citsur86]

Are they the same 3D buttons that were always there?

[evolution83]

Smileys are on the to-do list Mr. Scariest Avatar ever guy.

haha, thanks for the compliment and info! :D

[chris]

Are they the same 3D buttons that were always there?

No, these were there...

http://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/edit.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/quote.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/multiquote_off.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/quickreply.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/post_thanks.gif

[chris]

How are blue links scary? What about red links?



Scarier than blue.:037:skeleton

[evolution83]

Scarier than blue.:037:skeleton

OK, judging by your avatar and avoidance of anything with "color," I take it you're not a very colorful person, Chris. ;)

[chris]

Love the updated icons (quote, multi, thx, quick)

Do something with the background of the site; why is everything so gray still? I still say allow users to choose between customer themes. New smileys too!! :D

Gray is here to stay, but I can do something about your second request.

:029:eyeswideopen:016:sad:dft007:angry

About 60 new smilies in all.

[Citsur86]

No, these were there...

http://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/edit.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/quote.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/multiquote_off.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/quickreply.gifhttp://www.everythingwm.com/forum/eq2009/buttons/post_thanks.gif

Oh right, new ones look great! Definitely coming along nicely

[chris]

Let me know if anybody has any issues with the smilies. Just noticed some oddness, but might be trying to put too many in a post.

[eye-Fone]

Let me know if anybody has any issues with the smilies. Just noticed some oddness, but might be trying to put too many in a post.

:035:onfire:034:headspounding:031:arguing No problem here... :014:anger:007:hammer:010:shutup

(...other than being limited to a total of six smilies and/or images).

[evolution83]

:045:thumbs_up :048:peace :dft008:suprised :dft004:tears :dft010:smiling :011:evillaugh

nice to see some animations and new smileys!

[BrownGem]

I was so looking forward to becoming a zealot :(. I have never been a zealot..sigh lol. Mark, I knew you would cave...you are such a gadget guy lol.

Now I see the badges over my avatar. I am still a new member...why can't I be a used member. :). Nobody and I mean NOBODY touch that ok lol.

Oh yes, great job on the redesign Chris. It does look cleaner and brighter.

[evolution83]

I don't like the new badges, they're way too big and should be scaled down a bit to match those of the "quote, thx" etc buttons.

[Ramesh]

How do we become a contributor?

Thanks for the smileys. :008:cool

Edit: EVANGELIST? WTH?

[styfle]

The zealot and contributor badges need to be cropped. Theres a bunch of clear space around them. Anything that can make the forum smaller (less scrolling) is helpful.

[evolution83]

OK, these are MUCH better

http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/everythingicafe/ranks/zealot.png

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

How do we become a contributor?

Thanks for the smileys. :008:cool

Edit: EVANGELIST? WTH?

It appears we've been demoted. Don't worry - we still know we're geniuses.

[shutter13]

The forum refit made us stupid.....

A little bit ago I was a new member, so this isn't so bad.

[eye-Fone]

What are the new rankings? Is there a new and updated list of how many posts equal what title? I'm just over 700 posts--that should be deserving of some moniker. :023:nothappy

(edited to add: Alright, it says "Evangelist" now. However, it says the same thing about folks with thousands of posts)

(additional edit: Never mind! I see that Chris is working on them now)

[chris]

It appears we've been demoted. Don't worry - we still know we're geniuses.

The forum refit made us stupid.....

A little bit ago I was a new member, so this isn't so bad.

Perhaps it's just that those "genius" badges take a little more to create.:dft012:wink

[Londonrockz568]

IS it me or has the forum become alot whiter.
It's like the contrast on the computer is set very high.

No likey.

[eye-Fone]

IS it me or has the forum become alot whiter.
Must be that "Michael Jackson" theme. :020:throwup

[Hondamaker]

Must be that "Michael Jackson" theme. :020:throwup
LOL---good one!:dft011:wicked_smile

[up10ad]

I'm liking the changes, especially the smileys. Adding clear emoticons helps avoid misinterpretation and therefore the need for moderation. And Dave is such a taskmaster. :048:peace

[The Apple]

:042:steaming_pile:005:snicker

[Swagger]

The new badges look very nice. Mark

[iCafe]

:020:throwup

[Lincoln]

Hmm... not liking the new buttons. I liked them when they were flat - I liked the minimalist look of them. The 3D takes away from that, in my opinion.

Not sure what I think about the new badges. I guess I'll have to wait to see my shiny new mod badge before I can decide. Tounge Smile

[ct2k7]

The new badges are ok, takes away iPhone feeling though.

[aggieman]

:042:steaming_pile:042:steaming_pile

yes I love it!

[dturner]

I :043:hearts the badges. Much easier to see then the first "new" ones . Looks like everything is shaping up for a great new look.

[chris]

Hmm... not liking the new buttons. I liked them when they were flat - I liked the minimalist look of them. The 3D takes away from that, in my opinion.

Everything is a work in progress. Buttons might go back to 2D.

[chris]

The forum refit made us stupid.....

A little bit ago I was a new member, so this isn't so bad.

Over 1,200 posts and no avatar?:029:eyeswideopen

[evolution83]

Everything is a work in progress. Buttons might go back to 2D.

I hope not. It wouldn't match nor would it make sense.

I prefer the new design. Out with the old, in with the new.

[chris]

:042:steaming_pile:042:steaming_pile

yes I love it!


I'm sure plenty of members would have made use of them when Mark as talkin' up the BlackBerry Storm.:dft011:wicked_smile

[chris]

I hope not. It wouldn't match nor would it make sense.

I prefer the new design. Out with the old, in with the new.


Lincoln has a good point. Plus, with the new badges, perhaps we get more pop from the "User area" if we went back to 2D.:022:really

[evolution83]

Lincoln has a good point. Plus, with the new badges, perhaps we get more pop from the "User area" if we went back to 2D.:022:really

I don't see how having a certain style of icons would gain attraction from users. Explain to me how having 2D would stand out better vs. 3D.

[dturner]

I don't see how having a certain style of icons would gain attraction from users. Explain to me how having 2D would stand out better vs. 3D.
Have to agree. I like the 3D look. Got a hard job Chris :dft005:frazzled, trying to please everyone. Go with what you think is best and we will like it.:047:agreement

[chris]

I don't see how having a certain style of icons would gain attraction from users. Explain to me how having 2D would stand out better vs. 3D.

If you look at a standard forum install template, those buttons aren't very overstated. Not to say a standard forum install is any great shakes.

My goal is to keep things clean, so the focus is on the members and the content... not my buttons.:dft011:wicked_smile

The trouble with threads like this (and the entire process) is that you tend to take things at face value, rather than looking at the bigger picture of forum usability as a whole. 3D is a hole extra D... so it will pop more than the 2D. I'm not sure it makes the forum as a whole look better.

The old edit icons were pretty in your face. Your eye immediately goes to them. I'd rather your eye focus on the content in the middle of the page and on the users.

[chris]

Of course, I could wake up tomorrow and go 3D. Keep trying things until it just works.:027:asured

[aggieman]

Of course, I could wake up tomorrow and go 3D. Keep trying things until it just works.:027:asured

Take a break and leave it alone for a while. It looks great. Some of the other sites could use the new look! :045:thumbs_up

[acosmichippo]

Yes! I've always wanted EiC in 3D.

[Hondamaker]

Don't listen to Lincoln's picky a$$! The place looks nice. You did a lot of work here, took a lot of time. Leave it. Just my 2 cents.

[aknightstale41]

I think it's been 2 days since my last thanks.
You forgot to start your confession with "Forgive me Father for I have sinned", i think it's been 2 days since my last thanks.

Liking the new improvements on the site,
:029:eyeswideopen :003:happy

[eye-Fone]

:033:praying I think we should have a "special" badge for those "special" people for those "special" messages . . .

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/7892/eicmoniker.gif

[Hondamaker]

You forgot to start your confession with "Forgive me Father for I have sinned", i think it's been 2 days since my last thanks.

Liking the new improvements on the site,
:029:eyeswideopen :003:happy
LMAO! :005:snicker

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

I don't really care how it looks, as long as it works. :dft010:smiling

[BrownGem]

LOL @ NPA and Honda's sigs

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

We try our best.

[Hondamaker]

Sometimes we try too hard! :laugh2:

[psylichon]

All I need is this guy ---> http://dancetech.com/forums/images/ok.gif

Steal him from Dancetech, it's cool. I need him.

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

Sometimes we try too hard! :laugh2:

We surely do!

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

:020:throwup

Your signature needs a little work there, Rainman.

[aggieman]

I don't really care how it looks, as long as it works. :dft010:smiling

that's what she said

[phsycology]

that's what she said

l
m
a
o! :D

[chris]

All I need is this guy ---> http://dancetech.com/forums/images/ok.gif

Steal him from Dancetech, it's cool. I need him.

Now the changes are complete.ok

[dwp1975]

New look is awesome. Chris, are you looking for any help managing configurations? I like to do pro-bono work to fill in the slow days

[aggieman]

methinks something is up with the new smilie. everytime "o.k" shows up in a word it gets the smilie

okokokok

[psylichon]

Shhhhh! He's gonna take my smiley away! Just don't type o.k! ok

[dturner]

Maybe Chris planned it that way. okK

[aggieman]

I want the "under construction" badge back as my own.

[psylichon]

Maybe Chris planned it that way. okK

I think he just forgot to add some ": :" s

[dturner]

lol I thought everyone was joking about you know what, but I did a test post without sending and it does put you know what in there.

[aggieman]

I think he just forgot to add some ": :" s

Thanks Dave, all of this because you had to have your silly smilie :007:hammer

[dturner]

Joke Poke stoke broke toke brook

[chris]

Ok, now he's fixed.:ok:ok

[chris]

New look is awesome. Chris, are you looking for any help managing configurations? I like to do pro-bono work to fill in the slow days

Server configurations?

[psylichon]

So twitter is the best way to reach you. Noted. :ok:ok

[chris]

So twitter is the best way to reach you. Noted. :ok:ok


Broken stuff always gets me, but yes Twitter works too.:011:evillaugh

[KabaModern]

I guess I'll have to settle for the badges. :dft003:coolkid I would like to see the stars return though...

[aggieman]

:042:steaming_pile on :ok:ok

[acosmichippo]

looks good, but the white outline around these is kinda buggin me:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/everythingicafe/buttons/quote.gif

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

I guess I'll have to settle for the badges. :dft003:coolkid I would like to see the stars return though...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFwprS_L6tg

[KabaModern]

@Napoleon_PhoneApart: HAHAHA. Nice! I LOVE THE BADGES though!

[iCafe]

Hey Chris the site is looking great now
Good Job
p.s. perhaps a special badge for me , a legendary poster badge or something of the like

[seanwes]

I like the badges actually. And the big avatars. :):045:thumbs_up

[psylichon]

p.s. perhaps a special badge for me , a legendary poster badge or something of the like


Ooooh oooooh oooh... I got one:

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/psylichon/Fool.jpg

Would save a lot of explaining...

[dturner]

Ooooh oooooh oooh... I got one:

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/psylichon/Fool.jpg

Would save a lot of explaining...
The one I was thinking of would probably get me banned.:dft011:wicked_smile

[dwp1975]

Server configurations?

What type of server configs? I am more of a front end guy.

[Ramesh]

What type of server configs? I am more of a front end guy.

How come there's no end quote? And why does the gray just go until the end? Shouldn't it be more of a highlighted field w/an end?


(quoted you just as an example) :)

[evolution83]

How come there's no end quote? And why does the gray just go until the end? Shouldn't it be more of a highlighted field w/an end?


(quoted you just as an example) :)

I, too, have always wondered why there was no end quote. Looks kinda weird without it.

[Ramesh]

There used to be...

[Ramesh]

Now I'm just being REALLY picky, but under the forum subsection, shouldn't it be:

iPhone V1
iPhone 3G
iPhone 3GS

[chris]

Now I'm just being REALLY picky, but under the forum subsection, shouldn't it be:

iPhone V1
iPhone 3G
iPhone 3GS

It's actually in order of activity level. Need to keep most active, popular forum categories at the top.

[aggieman]

Now I'm just being REALLY picky, but under the forum subsection, shouldn't it be:

iPhone V1
iPhone 3G
iPhone 3GS

Rammy you're the kind of guy that puts your initials on your socks and underwear aren't ya? :dft011:wicked_smile

[eye-Fone]

Ooooh oooooh oooh... I got one:

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/psylichon/Fool.jpg

Would save a lot of explaining...
...or maybe:

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/7892/eicmoniker.gif

[dwp1975]

How come there's no end quote? And why does the gray just go until the end? Shouldn't it be more of a highlighted field w/an end?


(quoted you just as an example) :)

Now I made an "example" out of you....:ok:ok lol

[Swagger]

@Chris,
All your hard work this week looks really great. You have done a wonderful job upgrading the site. The site now looks so fresh, clean and new. Thanks for all that you do for us to have a wonderful "Happy Place" to relax and discuss our love of technology/mobile devices.:ok:ok Mark

[Ramesh]

It's actually in order of activity level. Need to keep most active, popular forum categories at the top.

ok - makes sense. :) Does that mean it'll change automatically?

Rammy you're the kind of guy that puts your initials on your socks and underwear aren't ya? :dft011:wicked_smile

Come on - that didn't make sense to you at all? :dft011:wicked_smile

[acosmichippo]

i like the grey quotes, but i still think the stickies should be yellow like post-in notes.

[Ramesh]

i like the grey quotes, but i still think the stickies should be yellow like post-in notes.

I like it too. Just would like an end quote. :)

[acosmichippo]

I like it too. Just would like an end quote. :)"

done............

[acosmichippo]

so chris...

...why no love to the iphone ad-free theme?

[connie]

Kudos Chris, I like everything just fine!
The bigger avatar thing is cool until I saw Evolution83's and it was a little freaky.
But it all looks great, good job.

[evolution83]

Kudos Chris, I like everything just fine!
The bigger avatar thing is cool until I saw Evolution83's and it was a little freaky.
But it all looks great, good job.

Hey, as long as I'm remembered or make an impression around here, that's all that matters to me, lol :)

[connie]

Hey, as long as I'm remembered or make an impression around here, that's all that matters to me, lol :)
:ok:ok:dft012:wink:011:evillaugh

[Hondamaker]

Sweet connie! Where ya been?

[connie]

Sweet connie! Where ya been?

Hey Jack! I'm great, love the avatar!!!:043:hearts

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

Hey, as long as I'm remembered or make an impression around here, that's all that matters to me, lol :)

iCafe is remembered, too, and look what's happened to him...

[evolution83]

iCafe is remembered, too, and look what's happened to him...

Yes, I can see how much everyone just loves him. (sarcasm for those not so intelligent people :p )

I don't plan on following his lead. ;)

[phsycology]

I love your avatar Evo......:)

[chris]

looks good, but the white outline around these is kinda buggin me:

http://www.everythingicafe.com/forum/everythingicafe/buttons/quote.gif

This is easily fixed. Used a matte stroke when saving. Just need to resave and upload.

so chris...

...why no love to the iphone ad-free theme?

Time or lack of it. I have some IE 7 issues plaguing the sites that I need to tend to...

I'll try and get it done this week.

[aggieman]

iCafe is remembered, too, and look what's happened to him...


who????? :042:steaming_pile

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

See? ......

[acosmichippo]

This is easily fixed. Used a matte stroke when saving. Just need to resave and upload.

only one of my buttons changed...

http://img.skitch.com/20090714-8j8h9c14mus7ybigwcb2f5e23d.png

[evolution83]

OK WOW

I see that new button and it looks horrible...plz fix

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

I like it, but the others need to match.

[psylichon]

OK WOW

I see that new button and it looks horrible...plz fix

Totally. I can barely bring myself to use the site now. :dft012:wink

[evolution83]

Totally. I can barely bring myself to use the site now. :dft012:wink

lol on my end it looks like the edges aren't smooth and jagged. only reason why i say that

[acosmichippo]

i agree, it does kinda look a bit rough...

maybe something like this?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/edit2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/multiquote_off2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/post_thanks2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quickreply2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quote2.png

[evolution83]

i agree, it does kinda look a bit rough...

maybe something like this?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/edit2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/multiquote_off2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/post_thanks2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quickreply2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quote2.png

Yeah that's how it should look.

Nice avatar, BTW.

[Napoleon_PhoneApart]

One acronym - OCD.

[KabaModern]

lol on my end it looks like the edges aren't smooth and jagged. only reason why i say that

One of these things is not like the others...

[cindra]

Yeah, is it just me or is the Multi-quote button a darker shade of gray than the others?

[psylichon]

lol on my end it looks like the edges aren't smooth and jagged. only reason why i say that

i agree, it does kinda look a bit rough...

maybe something like this?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/edit2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/multiquote_off2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/post_thanks2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quickreply2.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a393/acosmicfriend/quote2.png

Yeah, is it just me or is the Multi-quote button a darker shade of gray than the others?

Kinda makes you just want to use it, innit?

[evolution83]

If one button is a darker gray, might as well give the rest of them different colors...haha

And yes Dave, that one button really stands out enough for me to just want to reach into cyberspace and tear it to pieces. Maybe I do have OCD.