How-To Geek - What's New & Changing
Recent Site Updates and Future Plans
Alterations to the site’s theme have recently been implemented, and this article provides some background regarding the rationale behind these modifications. Significant developments are anticipated for both the website and its audience, and these changes serve as a preparatory step for the next phase of the site’s evolution, expected within a week or two.
Navigational Improvements
Previously, the site featured two separate subscription links, alongside a Feedburner gadget positioned lower on the page. This arrangement was deemed insufficiently organized. Consequently, the subscription functionalities have been consolidated into a dedicated section, enhanced with visual icons.
The site’s categories have undergone consolidation as well. Specifically, Linux and Unix-related articles have been unified into a single section, and less frequently used categories, such as blogging, have been grouped under a broader “Other Geek Stuff” heading. Analytics indicated minimal usage of the smaller, individual categories.
Enhanced Recent Articles Display
Efforts were made to improve the readability of the recent articles section. The previous iteration, as shown in the image, presented a dense and difficult-to-parse block of text.
Category Page Modifications
The category pages are now sorted alphabetically. However, this implementation is considered provisional. Future updates will introduce the option to sort categories either by name or by date, with a focus on maintaining readability while grouping articles by date range.
Further enhancements to category navigation are planned to align with an upcoming site module.
Bounty Program Status
The links to the bounty program have been temporarily removed. This does not signify the program’s discontinuation, but rather indicates a substantial restructuring planned over the coming months. A plan is in development to broaden the scope of the bounty program.
Advertising Strategy
The sidebar has been slightly widened to facilitate the potential use of sponsored ads, as an alternative to Adsense placements at the top of posts. This transition is still under consideration, and inquiries are welcome. Maintaining a clean and uncluttered site is a priority, and excessive advertising will be avoided.
The goal is to preserve the site’s readability and organization, as a how-to resource should be easily accessible.
Looking Ahead
These changes are also intended to prepare for the launch of a significant new section of the site. Reader participation will be crucial to its success. The rollout is anticipated within the next week or the following weekend.