Post: Reply | Quote

This week sees the first full beta test go up and will be the first time that everything will be in one place, rather than having separate software which aren't connected to each other.

What is being tested this week?


1. Compatibility
We will be testing all of the features to ensure they are compatible with Firefox, Internet Explorer and that Safari can still perform some of the emoticon functions that those two new browsers will find a breeze.


2. Speeeeeed
Following the Quick Reply popularity (thanks for your feedback on that one guys!) we are going to be making sure that while the version will have bells and whistles, those of you on slow connections, or for whom bells and whistles are more a distraction than a useful addition, will find those are options will not be shoved down your throat.

i.e. KISS will be used for the main sections with the bells and whistles waiting in the wings for anyone who wants to select them.


3. Personal touch
You will have a personal control panel which will show you the threads you are subscribed to and will also allow you to be notified in different ways depending on your personal preference.


4. Show it off
Have you penned some fan-stories based on Fiona's characters and places? Perhaps you have some fan-art? Now you will have your own gallery that people can view via your new profile page.


5. One ring to rule them all
We will be launching a system which will allow you to use the same login and password on any site using the identity software without compromising on security. This is limited for the moment, but we'll be pitching it to many more sites, negating that old problem of forgetting which login and password you use for which site - you can even have a different Alias for each site, especially for the privacy-minded.


P.S. If anyone is interested in a sneak peak, I might organise a private viewing, perhaps Fiona might hold a competition for the lucky few to get their backstage pass....

Post: Reply | Quote

Phew! Well we had some lucky people in to give the new software an absolute thrashing! When we said [i]don't be gentle[/i], we weren't expecting sledge hammers! Seriously though, they were able to show us a couple of things that were hard to use, so we have them on board. They also had some suggestions (below) and we will be putting these in and cleaning it up for a big test before it goes public... in two weeks.... Friday 22nd :y Suggestions: 6. An easier to use chat room so people are using it more. 7. A paging system, so you can organise chat sessions (above) 8. A ForumMail (FionaMail?) system that is easier to use and looks prettier. 9. Announcements that appear at the top of the page to announce when Fiona is doing book signings, etc.

Post: Reply | Quote

That all sounds fantastic Trent. Can't wait to see the new site and try the new functionality. I am intrigued at which other sites we will be able to visit using your single sign on concept, especially as you saying that Fiona's site will all be in one place now? Will this site be linked to other authors sites ? or fans sites?

Post: Reply | Quote

Yes Murray, it will be 'linked' to other authors, especially those that have felt that having an online presence is beyond them. It has been offered to some locals (Australians) to begin with and will extend from there. The fringe benefit is that it has meant that all of the improvements I've wanted for this forum can go ahead and I thought it would be great to get feedback from the people that use Fiona's BB Don't worry, the address will remain the same (unless Fiona [b]wants[/b] to change it).

Post: Reply | Quote

For anyone who was wondering about this topic... Fiona's unbelievable local schedule, family commitments, travel, book signings, edits, contractual obligations, tours, location trips... oh and professional travel reviews meant that the planned changes couldn't be confirmed until now. Phil and Ailsa have been giving us feedback on the software and (fingers crossed) everything will be ready to go and approved by Fiona before the end of the month