vbsmiley.com

[Shelley_c]

Link to the forum http://www.bbsmiley.com/ (http://www.vbsmiley.com/)

I purchased the domain back in january and recently started work on the forum style.

Registrations are still closed untill I iron out a few issues that I feel still needs doing, but the majority of the visuals and scripts applied are complete. The structure isn't finalized but from the domain it's a smiley site if you were curious.

All the images and icons and graphics were designed by myself apart from the 4 icons that came with a script located on forumhome, they seem to blend in nicely so I didn't feel the need to design anything new. https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/external/2009/08/24.gif

Feedback, thoughts and a good ole critique would be appreciated. Thankyou.

Because I'm using quite a few .png, the style images and other elements will look taccy in IE6 because it doesn't support png transparency. I never was supporting this version of the browser and not likely to either by implementing any fixes.

[agitated]

Very good work. :up:

The colour scheme is great however it's too girlie for my liking.

[Xencored]

OH wow shelly very nice will vBImageworks.com still be running ?
and will i need to sign up on the new one

Looks great btw ;)
Mike

[Xtrato]

Ok so let me give you my personal feedback..

The site functionality seems to be great , i like your level of customization , very good work on that indeed.

Great site , i like , but since you already know that :) , lets get to the good stuff.

Here is what I see and it ticks me just a little , there is too much spacing between elements , maybe thats your intention , but it a lot of wasted space in my opinion ( example , the nav bar from the main wrapper etc.. , forums and such ..)

Now i think you are trying to create a really happy theme , which is great , however! , thats the dilemma here , i think its VERY bright , my eyes find it very irritating , i cant stay focused on one particular part , i need to "run" for darkness lol.

Some Elements need to change color , for example the nav text , hard to see right off the bat , you have to "look" for it... I really think you have a great site , but just those particular things that , at least for me , keep it from being a very good site...

But that's just me :).
Good work! nonetheless

[Shelley_c]

Xtrato. Thanks for the feedback it's what I was looking for. The spacing on the navbar/notices was intentional as was the forums and although I'll leave the spacing in the nav/notice/navbits I think your right about the forum spacing. I'll work on reducing them a little there does seem to be a bit to much spacing between forums.

With regards to the navbar links hovering to another colour I'll look into this also and see what works.

The bright colours, I've seen brighter :) I think I may change the forum icon colours, the yellow may be contributing to this vibrancy though this was the kind of look I was looking for being a smiley orientated site but i feel the forum status yellow colour is throwing the whole theme out of whack.

Again, thanks for the critique. I'll work on most of the things you mentioned but most of the colours will probably remain. Never say never though once I start working on one area it will lead to the areas I want to leave alone. Thanks again Xtrato. :up: :)

[Xtrato]

no problem , i like your site , i just dont like the brightness , perhaps a blue selection to users ... its just me though , go with what YOU think its best for your community and most appropriate , you are the creator , so your ideas are most important! , others are valuable but , you have the final say...

her is a blue shot .

http://www.xtrato.com/images/ts/test3.jpg

Regards

[Shelley_c]

I did originally say that I was going to do a blue variation for the males so I asked 8 guys and they said have the one style (which was the pink style) which they liked, so I went with that. I just may add in another and implement the blue theme. When all is said and done I'll complete the pink style and then duplicate it and import the pink xml file and re-colour the pink areas to a blue which should take 5 minutes.

Thanks again Xtrato. I'll try the blue variation out which I might try out today. :) :up:

I understand I have the final say but I always feel the best suggestions and feedback come from third parties so any other suggestions are welcomed and feedback good or bad.

[Lynne]

Nice site, Shelley. My only comment is that I would make the forum_old, forum_new, etc images a bit smaller since they seem to compete with the smilie next to it. (Not sure if that made sense.)

I like the pink. :)

[Shelley_c]

Nice site, Shelley. My only comment is that I would make the forum_old, forum_new, etc images a bit smaller since they seem to compete with the smilie next to it. (Not sure if that made sense.)

I like the pink. :)

Thanks Lynne, I have to agree, they do seem to be a little on the large side I also want to keep the width of this area the same as the icons in the what's going on area so everything running down the forumhome is uniformed and aligned neatly. I have been pondering on re-colouring them anyway and might re-size the actual icons themselves but keep the canvas the same width.

[CallieJo]

Pros:
I love the smilies for each category. They are a perfect touch! And unique!
This is one of the most beautiful vb styles I have ever seen. Very nice job! The colors all blend well together and the site is easy to read and follow.

Cons:
I couldn't register to inquire about custom work ;)

[Shelley_c]

Registrations won't be enabled for a while. :) I've since took Xtrato's suggestion on an alternative style and because I used replacement variables on the original style I need to re-add most of them back in.

I've also re-sized the forum icons on the blue style and they do look better so I'll be transferring them over to the pink style template.

[profanitytalker]

Its so cute but I agree with the pink background. It is too light for my eyes. You should make the green that you have on there the background instead.

[Shelley_c]

Thanks for the suggestion Profanitytalker though I did try this earlier on during this styling project, and the colours or green to be specific as the background, didn't quite look right. I since introduced another style for people who find the pink overwhelming for something a little more subtle to the eyes.

[Gio~Logist]

If you need to see her name on this post to tell she designed this - then you don't know Shelly.

High-Resolution Graphics, Vibrant Colors, Bold Feel, Clean & Feel Good - Yep that's Shelley.

I can agree that some areas (like the pink) can be a tad overwhelming, but we all know you wear shades while you work.

Check out how much space that navbar takes. If it were me, I'd have a smiley showcase or somethin' floating to the right of the title on the navbar. Showcase your work, to get more work, and more purchases. Stop being modest. Also, in the welcome message I'd include the fact that you designed every smiley on there - because even I almost can't believe the variety.

[Xtrato]

I can agree that some areas (like the pink) can be a tad overwhelming, but we all know you wear shades while you work.



im sorry i had to LOL this one haha... i didnt know that , perhaps i should get some too :p.

good stuff.

--------------- Added 1250172575 at 1250172575 ---------------

Just looked at Style2... looking good, i can see !! lol , anyway here is an image of my thoughts..

http://www.xtrato.com/images/ts/testB.jpg

[UKBusinessLive]

Shelley,

Thats a great looking forum, The Graphics are just out of this world, a credit to you!!

If anyone is gonna have a great Smiley Forum, then is gotta be you, nothing else can even come close. Its a great forum, Brill colors and laid out professionally.

One Word

SUPER!!

:D

[smacklan]

I think it sucks...but I think everything you do sucks ;) :p :D

[Shelley_c]

Yeah, you'll be getting an invoice for a new monitor I just spat water all over it john. LOL :p :up:

I'm about to make some colour changes to the .tcats Xtrato for style2, I'll see what other variants of blue I can come up with. I'll look into the saturated side of the spectrum. :)

Thanks for the comments and suggestions so far. :) Apart from johns. ;)

[profanitytalker]

Thanks for the suggestion Profanitytalker though I did try this earlier on during this styling project, and the colours or green to be specific as the background, didn't quite look right. I since introduced another style for people who find the pink overwhelming for something a little more subtle to the eyes.

Oh wow! You should certainly make style 2 your default because it caters to both sex. I really like to glossyness of it. I will say it again, its cute!!:D

[Xtrato]

the blue is looking better, but im sure you still have some work , like the drop down menus , they seem to need some work as well, yet as i was looking trough , it reminded me of website i created for a customer, http://animecrowd.com/forums/f4/members-ranks-rank-color-619.html , check out the drop downs , they look "happy" , something i think would go great with your skin , my thoughts.

Regards

[mikey1991]

Shelley: Great looking site, unique as always, like most of your sites are.. looks to be a great place.. Are you looking to make some money from this too?

I think it sucks...but I think everything you do sucks ;) :p :D

If I could rep you, I would. :p

[Aclikyano]

very nice outcome w/ style2

[Princeton]

good balance of color

my fav is blue/gree which should be your default; mainly because it's more of a neutral color (won't scare visitors away)

the biggest problem I see...

This is a business site right?
You are trying to sell your products/services right? (I know that a lot of your stuff is free ... but I'm guessing you want to make money don't you?)

A custom index page would go a long way...

A great way to tell the whole world what the site is about
easier for visitors to learn about the site
showcase what is new (free or commercial)
promote your services
good for SEO
Now, about your design...

First of all, I love the peek-a-boo smiley on the forum category separation. It shows your creativity. However, that's where it ends. Besides that, I don't see your talent on the design.

Since this is a graphic site, I recommend creating a new page background...
take the "Register Today" image and what you wanted to convey in it a step further ... use the smileys on the background and create a community atmosphere - give them life.

The idea is that you want to draw your visitors in and hopefully take action.


Besides the lack of your creativity (your talent) on the design, there is no focus. Right now, my eyes are drawn to the "Register Today" image. (some may think that is good but it shouldn't be the one and only focus)

In fact, I find it difficult to focus on what is important which I'm sure you'll agree are the forum title links. That whole area is too busy and the contrast between text and background makes it difficult to read.


I hope this is helpful. Good luck on your endeavor.

[Shelley_c]

good balance of color

my fav is blue/gree which should be your default; mainly because it's more of a neutral color (won't scare visitors away)

the biggest problem I see...

This is a business site right?
You are trying to sell your products/services right? (I know that a lot of your stuff is free ... but I'm guessing you want to make money don't you?)

A custom index page would go a long way...

A great way to tell the whole world what the site is about
easier for visitors to learn about the site
showcase what is new (free or commercial)
promote your services
good for SEO
Now, about your design...

First of all, I love the peek-a-boo smiley on the forum category separation. It shows your creativity. However, that's where it ends. Besides that, I don't see your talent on the design.

Since this is a graphic site, I recommend creating a new page background...
take the "Register Today" image and what you wanted to convey in it a step further ... use the smileys on the background and create a community atmosphere - give them life.

The idea is that you want to draw your visitors in and hopefully take action.


Besides the lack of your creativity (your talent) on the design, there is no focus. Right now, my eyes are drawn to the "Register Today" image. (some may think that is good but it shouldn't be the one and only focus)

In fact, I find it difficult to focus on what is important which I'm sure you'll agree are the forum title links. That whole area is too busy and the contrast between text and background makes it difficult to read.


I hope this is helpful. Good luck on your endeavor.

Although I myself prefer the pink I have to agree with you which style should be default[/i]. I'll be making the blue default and if anyone person wishes "style blindness" they can always switch to the pink. Blue being default it is.

Because I get so much requests for custom work I thought try this out has a commercial/freebie site. I know people prefer free and I am all too happy to provide freebies but this also brings people to the site that grab what they want, leave and simply not create an atmosphere. I said I wouldn't make this mistake again and with the increase of people requesting for custom work I thought see where it goes. It either flourishes or 6 months from opening I simply close the site down which I will expect and not get my hopes up. A smiley site s something I always wanted to create because it allows me to go wild in what I can create which brings me to certain points you made about the creativity. Your absolutely correct, I think it does lack that creativity therefore I will look into re-touching some areas that can possibly transform this.

With regards to a showcase for services I have an old javascript viewer which I had on another forum script which will be perfect for showcasing services, and smiley packs which I plan on integrating in the green (navbits area). It worked great on my other forum software and should compliment the forum nicely and draw visitors eyes to the important info on index which I have to also agree is lacking.


Thanks for the critique princeton it's appreciated and hopefully I can stop pussy footing with the design so much and introduce the elements that are needed which are lacking.

Again, thanks for the critique I think this was a big help and an eye opener. :up:

[ExTincTi0N]

Just have to say, on style 2 the blue one, I love how you have that smiley hiding behind the title_cat.

[Drocr]

God I love this site! Amazing design, I hope you make a darker layout though because it hurts the eyes being so bright! Especially since I work night shift and am awake during the night :(

[Rickeo]

Do not change the design this is easily the most beautiful design I have ever seen just a shame the skin wont be released for public to use ;)

Just amazing I have been visiting the site for awhile now any idea when we can be expecting the grand opening?

Rick

[Shelley_c]

Hopefully around the end of the month when I finish up the winter theme (http://www.vbsmiley.com/index.php?styleid=4) and posted some packs which are near completion.

[Rickeo]

Shelly I know this probably isn't the right place for this but can you tell me how to add the little icons next to usergroups and names like you have on the bottom of your forum like the little want next to the moderators and stars next to VIP users that's beautiful and would make a great addition to my forum.

[Drocr]

Wooooooow shelley! The winter theme is SMEX! That design is so sleek :D
Btw the look you have to seperate the forums I have a question is it an <hr> break? How did you get it to look like that? Unfortunately when I do the <hr> break it doesn't blend in with the background that nice.

[Shelley_c]

Wooooooow shelley! The winter theme is SMEX! That design is so sleek :D
Btw the look you have to seperate the forums I have a question is it an <hr> break? How did you get it to look like that? Unfortunately when I do the <hr> break it doesn't blend in with the background that nice.

If your referring to the category spacing then I used the Category spacing modification (https://vborg.vbsupport.ru/showthread.php?t=204013&highlight=dapro).

[Palace55]

Nice job on the forums mate. ;) I bet that forums in 1-2 year's will be very successful!

[Santero707]

thanks )))

[Akademiks]

Looks nice, but I cant register =(

[Drocr]

@Shelley- oh thanks for that link! :O Thats pretty useful, didn't notice it before. Let me show you what i was originally talking about though:

Your separator
http://i45.tinypic.com/10nxi86.jpg




Mine in postbit
http://i50.tinypic.com/264ospe.jpg

Mine in skin
http://i48.tinypic.com/fk1z5f.jpg

[Tanapangarap]

Oh, my, the customizations are neat here, and I'm all the more impressed by how much of it is your own work, or the work of your fellow administrator, such as that "Site Information" page. I also notice that you have some of Nexia's neat modifications on your forum. Well worth the small subscription fee, in my mind.

Anyways, if there is anything for me to criticize, it is this: having "View Forum Leaders" and "Meet the Staff" both at the bottom of the What's Going On? box seems unnecessarily redundant, since the customized page, "Meet the Staff" already has far more information right off the bat, and still links to the profile of each staff member. It is a very minor thing, though, of course, and as a guest I wouldn't mind it at all.

Regards,

Kevin

[Shelley_c]

Oh, my, the customizations are neat here, and I'm all the more impressed by how much of it is your own work, or the work of your fellow administrator, such as that "Site Information" page. I also notice that you have some of Nexia's neat modifications on your forum. Well worth the small subscription fee, in my mind.

Anyways, if there is anything for me to criticize, it is this: having "View Forum Leaders" and "Meet the Staff" both at the bottom of the What's Going On? box seems unnecessarily redundant, since the customized page, "Meet the Staff" already has far more information right off the bat, and still links to the profile of each staff member. It is a very minor thing, though, of course, and as a guest I wouldn't mind it at all.

Regards,

Kevin


I agree. I've been looking at the view forum leaders and meet the staff and felt that I should have removed the view forum leaders link but never did. I'll remove that today.

Thanks for the suggestion it just confirmed what I thought and should have done months ago. :up::)

[BSMedia]

The new category heads are 1084392089204598042ty times better than the ones before.

[mikey1991]

Absolutely love the site layout :)

[Speysider]

Site doesn't exist anymore.

[agitated]

Yes it does. Only a name change. Still a fantastic site design :up:
http://www.bbsmiley.com/

[Shelley_c]

We recently changed our name. I'm sure both links can be reached now though I'll edit the title in the first post of this thread.

[boreas]

Very good

[dog-tag]

Great site... but by far the single worst "captcha verification" I've ever seen..

The question was which is saturns second biggest moon... spent 10mins googling to find out it's titan... you really really have to change that.

[JacquiiDesigns]

but by far the single worst "captcha verification" I've ever seen..

The question was which is saturns second biggest moon... spent 10mins googling to find out it's titan... you really really have to change that.

LOL ==> http://www.bbsmiley.com/threads/registrations-opened.43/#post-184
bbsmiley.com is now running the xenForo platform anyway... ;)
btw... 2+ year bump.. Good one.

J.

[Fready]

Yes that got me to look twice at the date when I saw the Forum was using xenForo
Also the domain name has changed from the first post
Nasty 2 year old bump really