Hello,
I just wanted to share a quick update on the remaining upgrades from the old version of the site. Thanks to the generous support of our donating members, covering the costs has been much easier. A special thanks to @Michael D Pie., someone whose kindness really shines through, not just because they're generous, but because they genuinely care.
Those members who know me well will know I don't like singling people out or giving praise, but Michael has been a significant factor in this process, and it's only right to thank him.
The + Create button, which was scrapped from v4, has returned as a custom mod.
This adds a level of convenience to starting new discussions, among other content, without the need to go to a specific location. It was such a boost when it arrived as a feature and quickly became something noticeably missed since upgrading.
While this is a small update, it should help with content in general and starting discussions as we start to move into the pre-season.
As previously noted, the upcoming game features enhanced automation of match discussions. I will be spending time ensuring the full fixtures get added, alongside the help of my wife @cheeky~k8.
Mood statuses will be returning, with Terabyte informing me recently that he's wrapping up the finishing touches on his app.
Our previous footer will return, but unfortunately the dev working with me on that is currently unable to code at this time. I have enquired about the app which gave subscribers a badge; I am hoping to hear back from the dev with regard to that. The bookmark app, which allowed members to safely store content for future reference, will return momentarily. As should the surveillance system for when discussions need to be moderated to avoid things escalating to a point that they shouldn't.
Guest limits across the site will be something I hope will return, but I have no ETA on that.
I believe limiting guests and encouraging people to register and join in will only benefit the site, and while I will try to make sure guests can gain value from visiting, I would like to give them more reasons to join and become involved.
My focus on newsletters was disrupted due to the sudden announcement that v5 was in beta. While I have tried to send bulk messages from the site, I don't think it warrants the effort. Instead, I will be focusing on the list where members have already approved my sending them the newsletter. At a point, I will make sure a subscription widget is added to encourage more to get involved, but when people join a site, they don't always want to receive emails or notifications, which is a shame because it brings them the community aspects, but it's also understandable that people would not want them.
Major news will still go out as per normal, but I will be focusing more on a newsletter and encouraging fans to follow areas of the site in order to get email updates.
The latest discussion widget from the old site, unfortunately the dev that had been working on its return isn't able to code right now, therefore I have asked another dev to take it on.
There's no ETA on this, but it is of the highest priority.
Aside from this, there are little things and some new features that I want to add in time. They are as follows:
A proper league system.
Additional ways of showing upcoming games, fixtures, and results.
Squad page, which is more detailed than what I have created.
History and stats.
Prediction League system.
Enhanced member profile picture gallery (upgraded from previous versions).
The PONcast player, featuring the inaugural Notts podcast, will make its comeback at a later date.
A member page that displays the total content reach, along with historical records on specific dates, featuring additional statistics for members.
I would like to thank all the newcomers, returning, and regular members for their support. It is appreciated, and no effort goes unnoticed by me.
I couldn't sing our community's praises any more.
Thank you,
Chris
The "Latest Community Discussions" widget is now back.
Please note:
The star icon at the beginning of a title indicates that a member has replied. If that icon lights up and the title is bold, it means there are new posts.
The title will take you to the first post.
The description or area beneath will take you to the latest unread comment.
A total of forty topics will be presented, including those highlighted as featured. On mobiles and tablets in portrait mode, it will be thirty-five.
A new feature:
Active viewers will be shown without the need to reload the page; this allows members to see what content might be discussed live at that moment. As always, I welcome feedback.
You won't be able to scroll pages, unfortunately; pagination isn't possible in v5 due to a lack of hook points.
The two features that have come back are great. I always head straight to the front page first, then check the dashboard to see whatโs new.
I take a quick look at the forum index and dip into a few sections to make sure I havenโt missed anything. Itโs become part of the routine now.
Seeing whoโs viewing each topic is a brilliant touch. Itโs a nice extra since the upgrade and could help keep people interested. They might stick around longer in case someone replies.
Itโs a solid improvement all round. Nicely done!
The siteโs upgrade really stands out. Itโs come on massively, and that alone makes you stop and think about subscribing. The way itโs been built with care, aiming for top quality and adding useful features, itโs clear thereโs been a lot of effort. It shows in every corner of the site.
Thatโs why Iโd be keen to support something like this. Itโs not just a passion project for Chris, itโs something special and worth backing.