New Facebook Changes

Facebook is making another redesign (yet again) that is in the process of being rolled out to current members. Thankfully, the redesign is not completely overwhelming. Instead, it focuses on improved site navigation. With the all of the new changes that Facebook has gone through in the past year or so, many members are skeptical about the new redesign. The previous changes were a complete facelift in the aspect of visuals. These changes were a hit with some members but not so much with others. There are even groups on Facebook that insist changes be made and go back to the old visuals and design. Nevertheless, the Facebook staff wants to improve the site and has not stopped with the redesigns. After using the new Facebook homepage, I personally feel that the improvement is better. The homepage feels a bit more organized than previous renditions. Although it will take some time to get used to, I believe that Facebook has gone in the right direction with this new update.

New Features of redesign:

Notifications icon is now on the top left & is now a globe shape

There is a messaging icon and friend requests icon next to notifications

New dashboard in the left hand column that displays groups, events, applications, friends online, and more

Chat link is still on the right at the bottom of the page, although it is now separate.

New privacy controls

Among these new designs, the event notifications system has been moved to the left hand column. In the last redesign, event notifications were almost invisible. Sometimes my events would pile up to about 25 before I actually saw them. Personally, most of my event notifications were to clubs/parties and I really never wanted to see them in the first place. Having them almost invisible was a plus for me obviously. Now that it is in the left hand column, it is more noticeable and prominent. For those who enjoy event notifications, this will be a great addition for you.

So, is it better?

This question cannot be answered for every Facebook user. There are already complaints about it and I will not be surprised to see a new group suggesting that the old Facebook is brought back. I personally believe that this redesign is much better from previous designs and actually make the homepage more organized and simpler. I do not know how long it is before Facebook makes more changes in response to member's complaints, but I do feel that there will not be as many complaints as before. In my own opinion, I believe Facebook is finally making a step in the right direction.

Sources:

My own personal experience at the new Facebook, www.facebook.com.