A New Interface for iccf-webchess.com
Monday, July 23, 2012: This week, on Wednesday 25th July, the ICCF webserver will be given a new, modern, interface; this will be the first major update of the 'look and feel' of the server since it's introduction in 2004. We sincerely hope that all players will appreciate and enjoy this new look for the server!
Dear Chess Friends,
This week, on Wednesday 25th July, the ICCF webserver will be given a new, modern, interface; this will be the first major update of the 'look and feel' of the server since it's introduction in 2004. We sincerely hope that all players will appreciate and enjoy this new look for the server!
Why the update?
Web standards have changed significantly since the server first came online in 2004, what appeared to be a fresh and modern website eight years ago is starting to look a little dated in 2012. Although the current site is fully functional and has excellent playing and management features, it's appearance has become less appealing to new players when compared with some competing websites in the private sector. In addition the use of older web standards mean that it was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain our commitment to accessibility for players with disabilities.
Will there be any down time?
Unfortunately it will be necessary to take the server down for up to three hours during the update; to minimise future disruptions, we intend to use this opportunity to update the webserver and database software which underlies the server. We apologise in advance for this disruption and will endeavour to keep it to a minimum.
Who designed the new interface?
A professional designer (Kirsten Witascheck) was contracted to produce the new design; these designs were implemented on the server by ICCF's regular contractor, Martin Bennedik, under the direction of the ICCF Services Directors Jean-Christophe Chazalette and subsequently Austin Lockwood.
When was this decision made?
The decision to update the server interface was made by delegates at ICCF Congress 2011 in Järvenpää, Finland.
Has the new site been fully tested?
Members of the Services Committee have been testing the new interface for several months. Of course it's possible that some issues have been missed, and we will endeavour to correct any new bugs as soon as possible after they are reported, however we have been particularly careful to test all game related features. If you do discover a new bug, or have any other problems using the new interface, please do not hesitate to contact the helpdesk.
What about iccf.com? Why has this site not changed?
The website currently at iccf.com is also based on older technology and is due to be retired later this year; eventually all the information currently hosted at iccf.com will be transferred to the new playing server website, which will then become the single, integrated, website for ICCF.
I don't like it!
We appreciate that the old interface had become very familiar to a lot of players, and it will take some time to get used to the new look. We know that not everyone will like the new interface at first, however we urge you to give it time and we are sure that it will soon become as familiar as the previous interface! Of course, we will endeavour to continue to improve the service that we offer to players year upon year.
Best wishes,
Austin Lockwood
ICCF Services Director
23rd July 2012