Radar is getting a redesign

A new version of Radar is coming soon. Here's what we have planned.

Radar will get a new look and more functionality when we roll out a redesign later today.

Here’s a screenshot of the new edition. We’re still putting pieces together so the final version may be slightly different from what you see here:


Radar redesign screenshot
(Click to see a larger version)


We’re also rolling out a mobile edition:

Radar redesign screenshot
(Click to see a larger screen)

The biggest change involves Radar’s sections. Currently, sections are auto-generated based on our internal categorization. That will no longer be the case. Each section will, in essence, become its own publication. We’re treating Radar as the umbrella publication — the mothership — and each section will be related, but independent.

Here’s an example: We’re adding a Data section with the redesign. What this means is that we’ll soon have a significant Data site within Radar that will have its own publishing schedule, will feature its own guest bloggers and regulars, and will focus on the needs of the Data community. It’s quite possible that a segment of the future Radar audience will only visit the Data area because that’s the only area they’re interested in. That’s fine. In fact, that’s a good thing because it allows us to use the power of Radar’s platform to increase visibility for topics — like Data — that we want to get out there.

In addition to the Data section, we’ll also have areas for Web 2.0, Publishing, Edu 2.0, Gov 2.0, Mobile, and Programming. Some material will cross sections. Posts focusing on ideas/developments outside these areas will also pop up as well.

More sections means more content, and we’ll be ramping up our editorial efforts to make sure each section is robust and valuable. As you can see in the screenshot, we’re also incorporating video from our well-stocked YouTube channel and blending a variety of sharing/social functions into the site. We realize a lot of engagement happens beyond the boundaries of a website, and we want to use Facebook, Twitter, RSS and other tools to make that engagement as seamless as possible.

There’s a number of things that won’t change: Content will continue to focus on the themes, trends and technologies on the horizon; we’ll continue to showcase unique writers with unique perspectives; and advocacy for “stuff that matters” will remain front and center.

The redesign will roll out in the next few hours. If you have any questions, please weigh in through the comments or contact me directly: mac at oreilly dot com.

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