With all due respect to the developers of this site and their commitment to getting the truth out, I have a few comment. I apologize in advance for being negative.
This is probably one of the most difficult and unfriendly site I've ever visited with regards to navigation, presentation, and layout.
I understand that you're trying to implement a relatively unique community based system, and that the site is relatively new, but it's extremely cumbersome and confusing for any first time visitor. I've spent at least half an hour browsing the different sections and I still haven't established a clear order or understanding of the layout.
I commend the people who've put out the time and effort to make this site happen, but there are certain priorities that need to come first in a website. Presentation of information and easy navigation are the foundation. If a new user can't see what is needed in the first few seconds, you've lost them.
I didn't leave the site after the first 30 seconds of confusion because I'm a strong advocate of the 9/11 Truth movement and I was determined to get my comments in and beg that you make some serious changes to this site. Most people would probably fumble around for a few seconds and then leave. I'd be interested to know how many hits the site has compared to new members, and how many posts have been made compared to the number of members that are registered. The ratio is probably disproportionate from what you would expect.
The solution may be as simple as providing a clearer home page with more navigational tools. On the other hand, it may require a re-vamp. For example, rather than having multiple pages with multiple forums, why not use a vBulletin platform that allows all posters to see updates within each category? You can password protect private forums while maintaining a single interface for users to interact and share information and activities.
I could go on, but I think you get the point.
Again, I apologize for being critical - especially in my first post - but first impressions are the most important. My first impression is of disorder and disconnect in presenting this board to coordinate a national effort. I give you an "A" for effort, but an "F" for results. This format will never achieve the popularity and usage needed to motivate a country.
FYI - these comments are coming from a guy who's quite familiar with the internet but is unfamiliar with web development. I understand that it's not easy, that this is a first attemp, and that the concept is different from most websites. But that doesn't lessen the fact that site navigation is burdensome and even becomes frustrating after a few minutes. I hope that you make some changes to make the site much more user friendly. It could be an invaluable resource if presented correctly. |