Designing a forum theme with a 'Content-First' approach

[Cedric]

As many of us have experienced, building a new forum can be both an exciting and challenging adventure. One essential aspect we often mess around with is the theme design, as it sets the tone for our community and influences the user experience.

I've recently been contemplating the 'Content-First' approach in designing a forum theme. Prioritizing content in the design process means focusing on the needs and interests of our users, presenting content in a clear and accessible manner, and allowing the design elements to support and enhance this content.

We have actually modified our theme significantly to focus more on content as some of you might remember.

Yet, achieving this can be quite a task. How do we make sure our design doesn't overshadow the content but rather enhances it? How can we ensure that our content remains the central focus while still maintaining an attractive and engaging design?

I'd love to hear your insights and experiences on this:

1. How do you prioritize content when designing a new forum theme?
2. What design elements do you think best support a 'Content-First' approach, and why?
3. Do you have any success stories or lessons learned from implementing a 'Content-First' design that you would like to share?
4. What tools, plugins, or resources do you recommend to help in placing content first in a forum theme?
5. What challenges have you faced when trying to implement a 'Content-First' approach, and how have you overcome them?

Your perspectives and experiences will undoubtedly help not only me but also others who are on the same journey. We want to bring content first in our new theme for AJ whenever that may come.

 

[Joeychgo]

1. What challenges have you faced when trying to implement a 'Content-First' approach, and how have you overcome them?

IMO - it's all about ease of finding the content and keeping distractions to a minimum. This means easy to find navigation, easy to understand forum titles, etc.