Want to add a patch ? Here's the code:
[url=http://tinyurl.com/v958f][img]http://tinyurl.com/yy5yxs[/img][/url]
"Profile Nuisances"
One unique trait you'll see here in Gaia (among many other things) are custom made profiles. Many unique styles showcase the creator of each profile. Aside from blinking text, there's bad habits you should avoid in creating a profile.
1. "Too many animated.gif's"
- Please have some consideration for those with 56k connections. Fortunately, I use broadband. As with signature banners, having just one is usually the best thing to do. Please do not repeat the same anime image for a background wallpaper. *shakes head*
2. "Anime AMV's (Animated Motion Video)"
- For some it's a great way to get a cheap laugh. Unfortunately, you're not the only one who has that in your profile. When you see other profiles with the same AMV, it gets redundant after a while, (especially in YouTube). If you created the AMV, please put your talents to use and do some real video editing of your home movies instead of anime clips. Regardless of how much work you put into it, you do NOT own the rights to that anime, nor can you copyright it. End of story.
3. "Stolen artwork"
- I do not tolerate anyone displaying artwork that clearly belongs to someone else unless if the art was:
a) Paid in someone's art shop/commission/auction winner request.
b) Displayed with permission along with credit to the artist.
c) Drawn by you.
If the picture in question doesn't follow these guidelines, then you are stealing their artwork.
4. "Hidden Multimedia"
- There's very few profiles that are the exception to this rule. Most times, it can get in the way of most people who browse a random profile. Hearing another audio file will cause the person to lower the volume or pause their music player. The best solution is to either have a visible player, or visible control buttons for the volume.
5. "Really small type"
- I understand that some layouts may not work with your standard 12pt type. However, if it forces someone to squint at all of your content, you have a problem. I wear glasses to correct my vision, not to magnify ants.
6. "Multi-colored text"
- Rainbows are interesting to look at ... when it's in the sky (or if you're a Care Bear). However, it's VERY bothersome to read on a profile. No matter how cute it may look, it's not aesthetically sound. This is not a homophobic viewpoint. I'm speaking from a practical standpoint.
7. "Random text alignment"
- Please don't align one part in your "about me" section to the left and then align your next paragraph in the center. I've seen this done numerous times in guides and auctions. Keep the flow simple and uniform.
8. "Incorrect spelling/grammar"
- Gaia is a site for members 13 and up. It's not that hard to spell and use proper grammar. This does not apply to you if your first language is not English. This applies to those that reflect on their immaturity. If you speak the way you talk offline, then I'm ashamed for the youth of today.
9. "CSS typos"
Most errors are browser specific. Others, however come from one little mistake in your coding. Leaving an attribute out, incorrect spacing, or an incorrect value can make you (and others) go crazy. Take your time in creating your webpage, I know being anxious is normal, but never rush a good thing.
These are just some of the things I look for when I rate a profile.
To those that rate profiles in the "Gaia Community>Profile Discussion": If you see something you don't like in a profile, please advise them on how to correct it. That's what "constructive criticism" is all about.
