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We came to a realization that design plays a deterimental role in a BLOGs effectiveness. Some BLOGs are endowed with quality content, however the design is so poor it could stop users from reading instantly. In contrast, a good design can retain someone’s attention–keeping them on the page yearning to read more. However, we discovered that a balance between content and design is essential to an effective BLOG. We didn’t want to read a BLOG that looked cool, but had shitty content and vice versa.

And yours truly was listed under the BAD category. Not that I mind, mind you. The design is a linkware although I am partly to blame for the layout on the left hand side. Too lazy to edit it properly although the font size is set by the linkware designer. One day perhaps when I have more time I will change the layout. Seriously need to revamp this entire site but need to seriously think of a tasteful design. However, the original template from mizdos.com was attractive and in-line with the theme of the blog. When one starts adding more links to the blog, then things start to get seriously messy.

I’m intrigued by their comment below.

However, we discovered that a balance between content and design is essential to an effective BLOG.

They classified Riverbend’s Recipe Blog as BAD but interesting enough, her other blog, Baghdad Burning, is read worldwide by 4000-5000 readers daily due to her day-to-day account during the war as well as her sarcastic wit. Both blogs have the same design. So? Good balance? To each his or her own.

Insulting the blog is ok. I need the mental stimulation anyway. As long as one doesn’t insult Granny dearest, I’m fine about it.

If one absolutely hates a particular blog design but loves the content, I would suggest using a RSS reader so that one only gets the posting and not the layout. Makes life easier, no? I use Bloglines not because I dislike the layout but rather, it’s easier to notice new postings with font changes easily identified.

Would I have wanted to have found out about this? Of course not but it’s their project. Next time, be forewarned that linking to a blog that has a statistical counter that can trace links on how people arrived at said blog.

: : Friday nite : :

Everyday was a busy day. Not much time to rest. So many social obligations with dinner, Toastmasters, dinner again and meeting up today with friend.

Dinner at Crowne Plaza : sorry, no pics. Too formal a function to take pictures.

After dinner : drinks at Monsoon with some friends. Cursing cars that stop by the side of the road to buy roses for Valentine’s. Can you believe that there is a massive traffic jam at 10:30 – 11: 30 p.m. at NIGHT?!?

Coming home : Feeding hamsters some peanuts and small pieces of bread (they are addicted to the stuff). Then, I rummaged around the fridge and decided to make a sandwich.

The bak por @ BBQ-ed pork slices were leftovers from the Chinese New Year celebrations. Goes extremely well with plain bread minus the butter/margarine.

There are also a lot of cookies leftover. Urgh! Also, Renee’s gift is still not devoured yet! Granny wants to wait for me to sit down for dinner. So, we’re probably going to have it tomorrow night.