I'm a long time reader (and suscriber of the Daily-ish e-mail) but I've just registered because as UI/UX design is part of my job and readings, I really think I have to share with you some feedback. I'm not a developper, I know nothing about Java (a shame isn't it ;)... but I'm not totaly a noob for web-design/UX (and for web-marketing/SEO).
First, I want you to know that I love you Paul (Cassie and all others)... I love your work, the character you are, etc... so don't take the following too personnal.
It may be rude... but I just want to help.
In my opinion, Permies.com/forum look old fashioned since many years, so I was very excited to know that you we're working on a "new fresh design".
But I'm very confuse with the new version as it look more old fashioned than before and offer very poor user experience.
2016 is almost ringing here... we can't make website like it was 2002.
So let me quickly summarize... By 2016 YOU CAN'T:
Make a website which is not mobile-friendly.Make an index page with 4 sidebar on it.Make a repetitive textural background like this woody one.Make textural buttons with useless artworks but no Hover class.Make buttons and calls to action with very low contrast.Make poor advertising integrationAdd useles animated Gif and artworks
We can list more but I prefer focus on primary aspect and things that are not too subjective.
So my advices are:
Ask peoples you don't know who are in web-design industry to rate Permies.com/forum... Having only two answers from professionals will be way more usefull than thausends "It's fantastic !" from people who don't ordinary care about that.
Surf on the web, take a look at what big brand do (because they spend big money to know what works best and what is trendy) and take inspiration to make a better one... no need to reivent the wheel.
I'm a bit busy by my own projects for now, but If I can help you in any ways tell me...
PS1: Would love to share with you on the "reprint of the playing cards" topic, but I have to go to sleep it's 6:30 am here O_o
PS2: Sorry for my poor english... Frenchy on board :)
