think the standard has dropped around here. i used to come here quickly regularly. find myself coming for bout 30 seconds and then gettin fed up at the poor threads and leaving as soon as i arrive. anyone else feel the same?

think the standard has dropped around here. i used to come here quickly regularly. find myself coming for bout 30 seconds and then gettin fed up at the poor threads and leaving as soon as i arrive. anyone else feel the same?

 

NO

</end thread>

Definately, it's been on a downhill slope for about a year now. There used to be loads of regulars, they've all left now

 

In the interest of openness, I know a lot of people have left because of the attitude of some of the staff here. (No names mentioned).

 

Also, you should be aware, when you say anything bad about this site, theres a handful of fan boys that are bound to turn this into a flame thread

Edited December 19, 201114 yr by skidz

theres a handful of fan boys that are bound to turn this into a flame thread

 

which is what nobody wants or needs.

 

I hear your point Al and Skidz but it's just not going to achieve anything is it.

 

When I tried to mention a few pointers on another thread I kinda got a bit shot down, but I wasn't trying to insult anyone or this forum.

 

There's definitely room for improvement - the biggest issue I see is that the members don't feel like they are being heard, and that can only be a recipe for disaster.

I only started using this forum this year, so maybe I don't have the level of insight some of you do. But comparatively speaking, when compared to other forums, WDF is pretty damn good.

 

It's relatively pleasant IMO. It's not aggressively moderated, there aren't too many idiots (and they're easily avoidable) and there isn't too much spam.

 

I have got to admit there's a lot of thread repetition.

 

At the end of the day what makes a forum is its members and the content. You are a member and you can post content, so if other members are diluting the quality of the forum, you have just the same level of power to improve it.

Edited December 19, 201114 yr by brightonmike

Mike I do agree with you in terms of helpfulness WDF is still one of the best web forums.

 

You mentioned on another threads that this is just a forum, but it used to be a community where people used to love contributing things and not just helping each other, there was a time when members used to post 40/50 times a day and it wasn't just spammy stuff there were real debates and some amazing article type posts being written. But because it feels like the forum doesn't care about regular contribution and the community as a whole and just seems to care about the number of posts and sign ups, a lot of members have stopped posting or don't post as much, and now it is as you said in that other thread this is just a forum, which is sad.

Edited December 19, 201114 yr by Dizi

i also think the standard in design has dropped which is another reason i dont really come here any more. when i see a thread with 'Logo Feedback' and i open it up the majority of the time is really low level stuff and it wouldnt be worth my while replying. im not saying im too good to reply, im saying that when i open it up and its something like this:

 

MyLogo.com

 

 

there is just too much things wrong so i wouldnt know where to start! if ur lookin for a top design forum with designers who are at a seriously high level check out http://www.designerstalk.com/ although i must warn you that they eat up and spit out poor designers so be careful!

Edited December 19, 201114 yr by alzer81

MyLogo.com

 

Nice logo man do you mind if I use this?

Designerstalk is an awful forum. A good few arrogant people on there who are just waiting to rip into some poor sap to make them feel important. Not everyone mind.

 

Least on here there are people willing to help and give advice, if you don’t want to you don’t have to. But no matter how bad their logos are at least they are asking and listening (its how the vast majority of people start) and there will always be good folk here to help.

It's sad that some people feel like this but then, as this thread has proven, different users want different things and you can't please everyone all the time.

 

The fact is things change and develop. Users, mods, forums etc. the major problem here a year ago was the spam, now that's pretty much sorted, auberge it's time to work on the quality and thread dupes?

there is just too much things wrong so i wouldnt know where to start! if ur lookin for a top design forum with designers who are at a seriously high level check out http://www.designerstalk.com/ although i must warn you that they eat up and spit out poor designers so be careful!

 

I think there are a lot of designers on here who are at a very high level, and fortunately, most of them seem to have achieved what they have and kept their modesty, attitude and manners intact.

 

I have no desire to join another forum, this one is just fine, but why do you need to come on here and whinge about this place and its members if there is somewhere else for you to go that's sooooo much better? There's your solution!

i also think the standard in design has dropped which is another reason i dont really come here any more. when i see a thread with 'Logo Feedback' and i open it up the majority of the time is really low level stuff and it wouldnt be worth my while replying. im not saying im too good to reply, im saying that when i open it up and its something like this:

 

MyLogo.com

 

 

there is just too much things wrong so i wouldnt know where to start! if ur lookin for a top design forum with designers who are at a seriously high level check out http://www.designerstalk.com/ although i must warn you that they eat up and spit out poor designers so be careful!

 

I find that a little bit unfair. Most of the people who post stuff such as that are just beginners. They need an helping hand in direction they need to take.

 

I have posted some dross here at times but because people have pointed out where I have gone wrong I have improved no end. I'm not saying I am brilliant but the more I learn from the professionals the better I will become.

 

If you don't want to give advice don't, but don't keep moaning on about everyone being at such a sub standard compared to yourself.

 

Just to add I like this forum and compared to others there is no contest.

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by RobbieD90

The thing that has always amazed me about the members on this forum is how welcoming they are and how the majority of the regulars want to help people improve & develop as designer/developers and aren't here just to stroke their own inflated egos by insulting others.

 

I have nothing against Webdesignertalk I just think you can't compare this forum to that one because the target market is a lot different as here is open to everyone who wants to learn, while they are more about welcoming people who already have the skill set behind them.

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by Dizi

The thing that has always amazed me about this the members on this forum is how welcoming they are and how the majority of the regulars want to help people improve & develop as designer/developers and aren't here just to stroke their own inflated egos by insulting others.

 

I have nothing against Webdesignertalk I just think you can't compare this forum to that one because the target market is a lot different as here is open to everyone who wants to learn, while they are more about welcoming people who already have the skill set behind them.

 

This....

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by D.Schuster

The thing that surprised me the most about this forum was how friendly and willing to help everyone was!

 

I love how friendly the whole environment is!

 

Its a perfect balance between a chilled out environment to chat and a bit of moderating to make sure the forum is still inviting to the public!

 

I take my hat off to Ben, Mike and all of the mods! :hi:

Agree Tom.

 

I haven't been here all that long and haven't posted a whole lot, but I think it's great here, very friendly and people are always willing to help. I have learned quite a bit since joining here and I know I will learn a lot more from other members.

 

Thanks WDF

The thing that surprised me the most about this forum was how friendly and willing to help everyone was!I love how friendly the whole environment is!Its a perfect balance between a chilled out environment to chat and a bit of moderating to make sure the forum is still inviting to the public!I take my hat off to Ben, Mike and all of the mods! :hi:

 

Agree Tom.I haven't been here all that long and haven't posted a whole lot, but I think it's great here, very friendly and people are always willing to help. I have learned quite a bit since joining here and I know I will learn a lot more from other members.Thanks WDF

Well said both of you.

Yeah, I feel the same for sure.

 

Sorry if I am about to sound like a [..] but, [..] , 99% of the designs posted in the review forum are absolutely crap. REALLY bad stuff man.

 

I used to go there and see lovely looking sites, gave me the pleasure to review it.

Now I can't even be [..].

 

Not just that, but in the last week I posted 2 sites for review and a couple for the first one and [..] all for the last one.

 

What's the point in that?

 

I only come here when I'm bored now. Like now.

 

[swear words with first and last letters and asterisks in between are not acceptable.]

Edited December 22, 201114 yr by Wickham

Yeah, I feel the same for sure.Sorry if I am about to sound like a [..] but, [..] me, 99% of the designs posted in the review forum are absolutely crap. REALLY bad stuff man.I used to go there and see lovely looking sites, gave me the pleasure to review it.Now I can't even be [..].Not just that, but in the last week I posted 2 sites for review and a couple for the first one and [..] all for the last one.What's the point in that?I only come here when I'm bored now. Like now.

 

I agree that some of the sites may not be great, alot of the ones I have posted haven't been. But if you want to see people improve there designs help them, tell them where they have gone wrong.

 

I think being rude and calling everyone's work crap is not the way to go.

 

If this forum is so terrible for you why come here at all?

 

The criticism that some of you have been dishing out to this forum was all started by one particular person, you wouldn't of been saying this if he hadn't started. Granted, some of the stuff being said is true but the way some of you are going about trying to get yourself heard is wrong!

Edited December 22, 201114 yr by Wickham

Yeah, I feel the same for sure.

 

Sorry if I am about to sound like a [..] but, [..] me, 99% of the designs posted in the review forum are absolutely crap. REALLY bad stuff man.

 

I used to go there and see lovely looking sites, gave me the pleasure to review it.

Now I can't even be [..].

 

Not just that, but in the last week I posted 2 sites for review and a couple for the first one and [..] all for the last one.

 

What's the point in that?

 

I only come here when I'm bored now. Like now.

 

 

If you hadn't filled your post with expletives and general bad attitude, I might've sympathised with you.

 

Hell, even agreed with you on a couple of points.

 

If this place is so crap, why don't you all just get lost and post elsewhere?

 

Answer me that, and maybe try to do so having cleaned your mouth out of muck first.

Edited December 22, 201114 yr by Wickham

And just for the record, some of you who are jumping around slagging off other peoples work.

 

Yours ain't that great.

I actually like it when new members who are just starting out post their stuff and get reviews on here only to stay and improve and a few months later post something that is really good because they have had the support, feedback and encouragement they needed. Maybe its just me but its fun to watch designers improve and find their footing.

 

So while I agree that the standard of posting has dropped and I have my own thoughts on why that is, I don't think it has anything to do with any of the members or the quality of designs being posted for reviews.

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by Dizi

It would seem that no matter what the topic is of online forums, there are always those who have an elitist attitude. I think that is something that will always do more harm to any community than anything else. Just because someone is new to web design, or lacks the skills that the professionals have, does that mean that their input into this community is any less valid?

 

When I joined this forum, I was a novice, hobbyist web designer, and I still am. I joined because I found that there were some really knowledgeable members, and they didn't mind helping out with advice as and when they could. I want to learn about web design, discuss web design and also put what I learn into practice. In return, I try to assist where I can and offer my opinions.

 

I think WDF is great, apart from the elitists, who aren't at all welcoming to new members. Thankfully, they are much less than those who offer a warm welcome!

I've found that lately I only hop on to check out what's in Gen Chat or to see if anyone has posted a question in the Graphic Design forum.

 

I used to enjoy writing out lengthy reviews but it seems that the bulk of people who post there just create an account and post something, they don't bother reading through past reviews. More often than not novice designers make the same mistakes as their peers, so people who take the time to read through what others have posted as critique for any work is helpful. I remember one week where I felt like I had to explain the same basic design principles a dozen times to provide helpful feedback.

 

I understand that people need to get feedback on their work to improve, I think that's a valuable asset that many designers, especially those who are self-taught, otherwise don't receive. But, there are also plenty of people who think their work is great (when it isn't) and come here solely to be patted on the back. When you ask a designer for their opinion about something they are remotely capable of doing, they are going to give you brutally honest and often hyper-critical feedback. Sometimes it's hard for the reviewer to convey their opinion without offending and for a lot of new designers it's hard to receive criticism without taking it personally. It's really frustrating to have someone ask for feedback and ignore it only to post a "revised version" with a couple nudges in Photoshop and a font change when they have other major overlying problems.

 

I still like coming here, everyone is super friendly, but I can see and respect why some people feel that the quality of the posts and community here has been in decline of late.

I don't have anything else to say because porkchops.

As someone who has frequently sought honest opinions on their work, I am always grateful for any feedback offered, and will always try and take on board that advice. Especially so if the criticism is genuine and constructive. I'm one of those who has little chance of hearing informed opinions on the work I do, unless I ask in appropriate forums, as none of my friends are into web design, and my wife isn't either. When I ask for honest feedback, I would be disappointed if someone softened the blows by holding back. That goes for anything I do.

 

I guess the constant barrage of new members asking for critiques of their work could be seen to be annoying to regular members, especially if the requests have been posted in the wrong sections. The prospect of hearing professional opinions on my (amateur) work is what drew me to this site though, and I suspect many more were drawn for this reason too?

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by StuartPB

I understand that people need to get feedback on their work to improve, I think that's a valuable asset that many designers, especially those who are self-taught, otherwise don't receive. But, there are also plenty of people who think their work is great (when it isn't) and come here solely to be patted on the back. When you ask a designer for their opinion about something they are remotely capable of doing, they are going to give you brutally honest and often hyper-critical feedback. Sometimes it's hard for the reviewer to convey their opinion without offending and for a lot of new designers it's hard to receive criticism without taking it personally. It's really frustrating to have someone ask for feedback and ignore it only to post a "revised version" with a couple nudges in Photoshop and a font change when they have other major overlying problems.

 

 

Took the words right out of my mouth.

And just for the record, some of you who are jumping around slagging off other peoples work.

 

Yours ain't that great.

 

Completely agree, some people are capable of creating very professional work in looks, but completely fail fail on a theory point of view at satisfying the needs of the brief, ie this looks good it must fill the whole............

 

If that's design then I'm a merchant sailor.

Edited December 20, 201114 yr by WBC

When I joined this site I knew absolutely nothing about web design and in particular html and css and if it wasn't for the friendly folk on here I probably still wouldn't. Its sometimes difficult to ask for peoples help knowing you are for the most part giving nothing back in return but fortunately there are a great number of members on here who have always been happy to lend their expertise and give you enough help to help me achieve my goals without making me feel that I have been a simpleton or a hindrance to the community.

 

Like Stuart non of my work colleagues, friends or family are interested in web design so forums like this are essential for me. Sometimes I am even able to help other people with the odd bit of code here and there and that makes me feel like I can begin to claw back some of the help and advice I have been given.

 

Its inevitable that when a forum like this becomes more and more popular it is going to attract designers, coders and seo practitioners at all levels of experience and I can hand on heart guarantee that I'll never not want to help anybody that is looking to learn and improve as surely that is the very essence of the www and the reason it is where it is today.

 

Also this criticism seems to be mostly about web design what about the other 60% - 70% of the site that is hugely popular and where I spend most of my time. Please don't change a single thing!

Edited December 21, 201114 yr by jheg

I have been a member here since 07. The forum was a ton better back in 07-08. More friendly and definitly smaller. I credit this forum for where I am now. It definitly has gone down hill, but I think thats just because it has grown so much that it lost its small forum appeal.

I understand that people need to get feedback on their work to improve, I think that's a valuable asset that many designers, especially those who are self-taught, otherwise don't receive. But, there are also plenty of people who think their work is great (when it isn't) and come here solely to be patted on the back. When you ask a designer for their opinion about something they are remotely capable of doing, they are going to give you brutally honest and often hyper-critical feedback. Sometimes it's hard for the reviewer to convey their opinion without offending and for a lot of new designers it's hard to receive criticism without taking it personally. It's really frustrating to have someone ask for feedback and ignore it only to post a "revised version" with a couple nudges in Photoshop and a font change when they have other major overlying problems.

 

I still like coming here, everyone is super friendly, but I can see and respect why some people feel that the quality of the posts and community here has been in decline of late.

 

You have helped me a couple of times porkchops. I don't think you could of put it better.

I've found that lately I only hop on to check out what's in Gen Chat or to see if anyone has posted a question in the Graphic Design forum.

 

I used to enjoy writing out lengthy reviews but it seems that the bulk of people who post there just create an account and post something, they don't bother reading through past reviews. More often than not novice designers make the same mistakes as their peers, so people who take the time to read through what others have posted as critique for any work is helpful. I remember one week where I felt like I had to explain the same basic design principles a dozen times to provide helpful feedback.

 

I understand that people need to get feedback on their work to improve, I think that's a valuable asset that many designers, especially those who are self-taught, otherwise don't receive. But, there are also plenty of people who think their work is great (when it isn't) and come here solely to be patted on the back. When you ask a designer for their opinion about something they are remotely capable of doing, they are going to give you brutally honest and often hyper-critical feedback. Sometimes it's hard for the reviewer to convey their opinion without offending and for a lot of new designers it's hard to receive criticism without taking it personally. It's really frustrating to have someone ask for feedback and ignore it only to post a "revised version" with a couple nudges in Photoshop and a font change when they have other major overlying problems.

 

I still like coming here, everyone is super friendly, but I can see and respect why some people feel that the quality of the posts and community here has been in decline of late.

 

 

Pork/David - THAT is how you put across your point of view in a measured and mature manner without resorting to swearing your mouth off and putting other members down.

 

I think I agree with you on a lot of points there.

 

 

Completely agree, some people are capable of creating very professional work in looks, but completely fail fail on a theory point of view at satisfying the needs of the brief, ie this looks good it must fill the whole............

 

If that's design then I'm a merchant sailor.

 

Hit the nail on the head! It's about so much more than just creating work that looks good, sometimes the best design is simply the design that works, not necessarily the prettiest. Amazon is a case to point. It's not the prettiest website in the world, but it sure as hell (if I'm correct in saying) is by far the most profitable.

 

So when somebody posts up work for review, I think it's incredibly important that when critiquing we do so within context. Their design may be ugly, but there may be a reason why, a valid reason.

One day you will all understand, I promise...

 

You can call me whatever you want and say im talking crap, but unfortunately my friend, I'm right

The only thing you've done Pedro is damaged your reputation. I can't imagine if a prospective client or your employer found your post above they'd be too impressed.

 

If you can't see the difference between making a point your way and the way Pork did then I kinda feel bad for you tbh.

Edited December 21, 201114 yr by brightonmike

I think people need to realise that nothing stays the same and forums are only as good as the members that fill them.

 

I've been a member of loads of different forums over the years, hell i even used to moderate for an ASP developers forum, i don't go there any more but i never felt the need to post up how the forum had become rubbish and 'changed' i knew that's natural progression and a lot of the change was me changing.

 

As has been noted here already, if you feel this forum no longer fits your needs then by all means use another forum that does. That's why their are so many forums out there, because every human is different and wants different things.

 

This forum still see's a large influx of new members of which the majority of older members are more than happy to help out, as they were when they first came here.

That's what this forum is about, helping others in a wide variety of different topics.

 

For those not enjoying your stay, then it's time to move on i'm afraid.

I have been a member here since 07. The forum was a ton better back in 07-08. More friendly and definitly smaller. I credit this forum for where I am now. It definitly has gone down hill, but I think thats just because it has grown so much that it lost its small forum appeal.

 

 

I have some good news for you and all the other people who miss the 'good old days'.

 

I've arranged a get together for you all at Christmas so you can all reminisce about happy memories. The location is top secret though. PM for further details.

Whatever Mike, I've always helped people, always gave positive feedback and always pointed them in the right direction.

 

I am not even gonna bother going into details of what I think because it's not worth it man...

To be fair here...

 

 

WDF (in my opinion) is still one of the best forums out there. HOWEVER, there are limits to what any forum can do for us. I believe that might be what Brightonmike might have meant by his 'it's just a forum' comment.

 

If you feel like that limit has been reached in your case (not thinking of anyone in particular just generally speaking) then it might be an idea to have a bit of a break.

 

This is a good read if you do feel that way:-

 

http://www.stevepavlina.com/articles/effective-online-forum-usage.htm