I figured separating the news into its own post is better for you guys who actually care about what’s going on around here!
I’ve been putting in some thought, and my blog is going to go through a brief redesign. This is going to include: a new theme, possibly a new banner, a new title, the categories will get cleaned up, and some new links in the sidebars and the tabs. In general, I’m looking to improve for you guys, so now’s the time to put your voice in!
For theme, I’m considering using Chateau Light with a deep purple accent color. If anyone’s curious, purple is my favorite color, especially that deep amethyst tone you only get in high quality specimens of the stone.
I’m going to have a friend put together a banner, if she’s so inclined, she’s done some cover work if you’d like to see them.
My categories are getting reduced! While I like my TweetDeck tutorials category, it’s really not that useful, considering I keep a page for you guys just above. I’ll also be removing Blog Mash-ups as its own category, moving my Research posts under Writing, and reducing many of the writing sub-categories. Oh, and ROW-80 is getting pulled into its own Category and renamed to Goals. This way I can use that tag for more than just ROW-80!
I’ll be adding links to all of my social media profiles.
As for pages, expect a better About page, and an Information page with news on the blogs copyright and licensing, my disclosure page, and a page about guest posts!
So the question to all of you is, what do you think of these changes? Anything I’m forgetting? Anything I shouldn’t change? I’d love some feedback!
A Digital Magician 
I have a problem reading blogs with dark backgrounds. Pure white makes me squint to be able to see the screen. I saw one today that had red background with yellow font.
Your plan seems like it would work well and be very organized.
I do plan on using the light version of the theme. I don’t like white on dark, I much prefer making text black on white. Thanks for stopping by!
The deep purple accent color sounds awesome! You already know I suck at technology and building sites, so my suggestions aren’t worth much, but I like that you’re going to change the ROW80 to “Goals” (smart move) and the other changes you’re contemplating. Looking forward to seeing the new look of your blog. Good luck with it all!
Thanks for stopping by!
I think you are on to a good design. Just be careful of a dark background with white/light-colored font. You might also want to add a Twitter button (and Facebook, if you use that).
I’d love to add the buttons, but unfotrunately they use Javascript, and wordpress.com doesn’t allow it. And I plan on using the light version of the Chateau theme, so no worries there. Thanks for your comments.
There’s a read button on Google + you might add to your blog.
Do you mean the +1 button? I’ve already got that here (Hidden under the share options.) I’ll definitely give it precedence now, though!
I like that theme. It’s nice and uncluttered, and I think the changes are all good. Can’t wait to see it!
Thanks for your thoughts.
I like that theme, Patrick. I’m pondering some of this stuff as well.
It’s a pretty weird thing to think about, especially if you’re established for a while.
I like all your ideas Patrick, particularly your reorganizing. From one who lumps everything & everybody into one place, your ideas sound smart & I need to take time to follow your lead.
And I love the Chateau theme & Purple>> if you’re in need of a color easy on the eyes, may I suggest shades of gray? Awesome with purple. But my fav is black text on light gray or off white background. Your designer friend will know what to do .
I’m thinking of something ‘grunge’ myself….
The big issue I’m having with categories is keeping it all organized without making the organization a pain in the butt for everyone else. I think the four is pretty good, actually.
Love the background color! Easy on the eyes, cohesive with the header & purple accent. Really nice. Hope you get good reactions from readers on it. The comment box pops too– Agree, 4 or 5’s enough.
I’m avoiding the temptation to reorganize my blog again. I need to make notes and let the ideas simmer. I like what I have now…but I get the urge to rearrange sometimes. *blush*
Don’t worry, I’m a bit ADD when it comes to design, too. I’ll bet in six months I’ll want to freshen up again.
Does that mean I don’t have to spent a lot of effort on the header?
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