design and interface feedback for recently launched site

bmeyer2 · May 2nd, 2008, 21:27

Hello! I recently launched SatelliteSights.com, a community-driven satellite image sightseeing project. I'd sincerely appreciate any feedback!

Specifically, I'm looking for your thoughts on:
-design (layout, colors, font, etc)
-content wordage
-navigation
-interface usability

If anyone would be willing to try posting an image or leaving some comments, I'd like to know how easy it was for you. Any interface suggestions?

Thanks again!

bmeyer2 · May 2nd, 2008, 21:28

Shoot! I meant to post this in the Free Web Site Critique forum -- can it be moved?

aso186 · May 2nd, 2008, 22:08

Moved to Web Site Critique

CloudedVision · May 4th, 2008, 03:54

I don't like the margins on the edges of the logo and navigation bar. It should be touching the sides of the page. i really don't like the colors, either. and its tables..... ugh.....

aso186 · May 4th, 2008, 18:11

How about making the banner more ... pronounced? Perhaps stretch it to 100% width? You could leave the other widths untouched, just a wide banner and the content seeming to 'drop' beneath.

bmeyer2 · May 4th, 2008, 19:42

Thanks for both of the responses -- I've stretched it and agree that it seems to flow better. Thoughts?

Also, any feedback regarding the use of the site (navigation/browsing, content/wordage, posting, etc.) would be highly appreciated!

aso186 · May 4th, 2008, 19:57

Looking better!

How about spicing up the navigation a bit?

Plus I think the login inputs should have white background to differentiate them from the banner and make them clearer when you type.

The main intro "Have you recently discovered something..." could do with being more prominent on the page. Either crank up the font size or break it up into shorter, more concise headings.

Going back to the banner, this might or might not work, but what about separating it from the content with a 4-6px bar? Gently highlight it using a one-pixel-high dark line at the base and top of the bar (one that springs to mind is the bar on the header of Drupal Themes).

One more suggestion - a gradient or faded striped background (only very subtle, but it would break up the solid colour).

EDIT: Regarding navigation, it feels easy to browse and everything seems logical and ordered to me

bmeyer2 · May 4th, 2008, 20:45

Thanks again for the help! I'm glad to have a fresh pair of eyes...

I've implemented some of the suggestions and will be playing around with the navigation look, the gradient, and the banner bar.

Any other thoughts from anyone? Especially regarding the Post a Satellite Image interface?