Let's continue the debate about the home page

So, a few days ago @brandonwilson started the conversation about the homepage in his post. Since I worked on a review for a book the last days, I thought it has to be time to write something about the new CoWriters, now Writelier myself.

I’m going just to use Brandon’s Example points and add my own thoughts.

Example 1: I do agree with Brandon here, it got a little bit harder to find new people with all the randomness going on page one. Although I really like the new sorting way, as I see a new “to read” list every time I open up the website, it gets a little bit confusing if you’re jumping by multiple times a day (which I tend to do).

Possible Solution: Allow the users to change the sorting of the page for their desired behaviour. It even doesn’t need to be stored, but that would be awesome (for example somewhere in the user settings). Also, first-posters and people achieving a milestone could be highlighted a little bit more. I’m not a design guy, but maybe a little bit more shadow around the cards, or some kind of glowing thing?

Example 2: I have to admit I don’t see spam very often currently. Maybe that is because I’m not reading as much as I was here before or because the randomness of the page just hides it from me?

Possible Solution: Adding some kind of captcha to the registration process (I think that is already in place). Also, a button for Patrons / Long-Time users could be great. One-click and “poof” the article is gone until it is reviewed by @basilesamel.

Example 3: Well, Brandon already answered that. :)

Example 4: I think there is a good point that a private post doesn’t do much for people on the front page.

Possible Solution: Maybe hide private posts on the front page and only show it on a “day” page and on the user’s profile. This could also be toggleable via a setting.

I’ll skip Example 5.

Final

I really enjoy the new look and layout of the pages. Obviously, there is much to do, but I think Baz will implement everything we are missing sooner than later. I know what it means to completely change completely new technology without too much interruption on the user side.

I’m glad Baz took the way of releasing early and more importantly keep the community engaged in the changes made. I’m already looking forward what will come next!