Development

My initial site with the changes. I have begun codding my site using the 960 grid system as a layout template, to help me keep all the elements inline.

Changes to initial web concept

Some changes to my initial web concept. I am going to try and us the space of the document 1024x768. For the tool bar I may change it to a dark grey, or something that will contrast the white and grey background of the site, this will also help with drop down menus. A search bar function for the forum page. For the games the media option will be removed, as there is already a dedicated section in the forum. Scrims will be linked to the forum, guides will be to separate pages (if I am given permission to use guides from other sites). More space along the top of the site, for a larger logo (similar to the original site) along with a tool bar along the top with a link to sign in via Facebook and/ or Twitter and a create account button.

Wireframes

Wireframes from my website so far

Week 3: Learning divs

screenshots of clas

Colours and textures

Community site break-down

After breaking down which site would need/ could do with and without. I came to the decision that a redesign for AVT: Gaming would be a little more interesting for me to do, as well as having a bit more substance to the actual site. Although that may increase my workload a bit I think the final product will ultimately be better than, the Scottish community.

CSS

Week 2, using CSS in conjunction with HTML

Cumunity sites

Some more ideas for my community site.

A  New Zealand Scottish community, for people who have Scottish heritage. Or even just people interested in the culture of Scotland. The site will feature things like, a forum. For people to discuss interests, their families clan, organize events etc. For this site in particular I was thinking for it to have a strong charitable aspect, similarly to that of/ or work in conjunction with the Scottish Athletics club located in Wellington. Which track and celebrate Scottish events, and Scottish athletes.

Another idea I quite liked the idea of was a redesign of Adversity gaming, a New Zealand gaming community  site focused on the more competitive aspect of games. The site would need to continue its forum, with the same or similar divisions based on subject. The general aesthetic of gaming or game related sites is typically comprised of black, greys and/ or dark colours often with metal or carbon fibre textures. Often with a futuristic, technological look to them with buttons sometimes looking like little metallic objects.

Cyborg gaming, uses a sleek metallic look 

MLG (Major league Gaming) Using a dark interface with a texture

IGN, Mostly black interface (which changes with new game releases)

Machinima, Dark textured interface

Razor, Dark textured interface

Steam, dark textured interface

For a redesign I would try to avoid using a dark interface, however may retain some of the textures. To maintain a common link to other gaming sites, while trying to make the Adversity gaming somewhat more unique than it currently is.

Community site ideas

Some initial ideas about my community site

I have also thought, and quite liked the idea of a New Zealand based computer guide/ advice site. The site will be mostly user submitted with things like Hardware and software reviews and recommendations. troubleshooting will be user answered with a system that works like Yahoo answers or Firefalls Athena system, both systems work with users posting questions which will be organised into categories. Also with separate tabs for people who have proven themselves helpful and knowledgeable.