Since we were founded on July 19th, 2008 exactly, this site's been through quite a lot of changes. It's been a learning experience for all of the staff on board, and we've gradually worked more and more towards our goal of being a technology publication. Now I realize that, over the past few weeks, there's been a lot of changes. A new forum skin similar to the default IPB skin was made, we did a LOT of staff reshuffling, staff ranks were renamed several times, and a bunch of other little things here and there were done.
Without going into detail about the many discussions, debates, and arguments we had, we basically took a step back, started to discuss things further, and collectively put our ideas together in an organized fashion. With that being said, we are excited to launch what can be dubbed GeekSmack v2 on January 1st, 2010. This is everything v2 will consist of:
Piranha - As you all know, Piranha is the codename for GeekSmack's new design. After much discussion, we realized that not only is our current design messy and relatively unattractive, but we also need something that sticks. Something that we all like that stays as GeekSmack's look for a considerable amount of time. Piranha is just that. It's neat, clean, organized, and nice, and we expect it to stick around for a good while as GeekSmack's main skin. Perhaps with time, we'll make variations of it consisting of a variety of colors, but the layout and general design will remain the same.
Tetra - Tetra is the codename for our Mobile skin. Seeing that some of our users and readers browse GeekSmack on a mobile device, we intend on making this a more pleasurable experience. We'll have more to share on this soon.
Community contests - As you can see, there's an empty "Contests" forum. Once we roll out v2, it won't be empty for long. We'll have competitions where the members are split up into teams, and will compete against each other in coding/design challenges. We'll also have more to share on this in the future.
The GeekSmack Podcast - Yes, the podcast will return, better than ever. Hosted by Chris Holmes (Chris123NT) and Rafael Rivera, there will be insightful commentary, discussion of the latest happenings in the technology world, useful tips and tricks, and more exciting content.
Return of the Reputation System - In an attempt to provide members with the ability to see who is most helpful, we will be reinstating the reputation system. This time, however, you will only be allowed to leave positive feedback. Basically, don't say anything if you have nothing good to say. Disrespected members will simply have 0 or a small amount of reputation points, while truly helpful and contributing members will have more reputation points.
The Elite Rank - With v2, the Elite rank will be something that truly deserving members who make a contribution will attain. Here are the qualifications that you must meet to attain this rank
-An exceptionally contributing, helpful, insightful and active member
-Ex-staff that left on good terms and were great members of the team
-A VIP member of the site that's making a contribution to GeekSmack or has a special arrangement with the staff of some sort
There isn't a set post count requirement for this rank. Of course, if the reason you're getting the rank is the first point I outlined above, then yes, post count reflects your activity, but this rank is more about the quality of your posts and your contributions then anything. Put it simply, this rank isn't just given to anyone because they reach a certain post count.
It comes with its share of perks as well. It'll come with various forum perks such as the ability to avoid flood control, more control over one's posts, etc., along with a more relax and laid back forum. It also has some exclusive content, which I will elaborate on more below.
An FTP Server - Well, we saved what's arguably the best for last. With v2, we will also be launching a fast, spacious and reliable FTP server that contains beta builds of popular OSes and software, most notably Windows. Access to this FTP isn't just for guests or one-post wonders though; we'll be putting some access requirements in place. However, we hope to eventually grow this FTP to a considerable size, where beta collectors will find GeekSmack a valuable place to be.
As for Elite members, well, let's just say that they'll have access to some exclusive content that is likely not found anywhere else.
In this post, I'd also like to welcome Nicholas Huber (Jah) to our editorial team! He has proven to us that he has writing talent, interest in technology, and overall dedication, and I'm happy to have him on board.
We hope you enjoy these new changes and services, and, as always, feel free to provide us with feedback, suggestions, and constructive criticism.
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