Feedback on Main Page Layout

[Critique My Site]

Hi everyone

i just launched my new site thebirdnetwork.ning.com

Would like your feedback on the way the main page is layed out

and whether I should remove something or not due to loading speed.

I did it according to what they recommended on the best practices section.

Thanks

Shyam

[Eric Suesz]

Looking good! Loads super fast. Nothing on there that is slowing things down at all. 

The header looks like it could be a little shorter. Might try messing with that. Also, your module heading text might be better in white since you have a darker background for that module headings area. You may want to consider putting photos up near the top of the page. Your network will thrive on bird photos. 

A few ideas for content: 

• You have recommended reading. How about encouraging people to write short reviews of books that informed them the most about birdwatching? Books that introduced people to birdwatching, that make them nostalgic, etc. 
• There is so much great content online about birdwatching. You might want to find some RSS feeds from publications or sites that you admire that you don't consider to be competition. Maybe some stuff from the resource center you are creating. 
• I guess one challenge you will have is making sure you can define your niche. What makes your site about birds different? What can you specialize in? 
• I know that it might be technically challenging, but adding a slider seems like a winning idea for your network. 

[Emmanuel Ace]

Another thing i would like to add o Eric's feedback

The text and links almost have the same color, why dont you give link or text and different color so your visits know which is clickable and not