After seeing this application I knew I had to try it here, it gives some pretty neat (facebook style) features that you can use if you like. I tried to keep the layout the same with the latest posts on the right for the people that don't like the new stuff they should be able to continue using the site the same way.

The main incentive was the facebook connect and simplified registration process to encourage more signups. Based on the traffic we get here there should be more registrations so this may help. On to the features:

Site Feed - I really like this, it show's the latest things happening, what other users are doing, posting...etc. Keeps you in the loop all on the main page, you don't even need to enter the forum if you don't plan to reply. If you are set to automatically log in this is the first screen you see, otherwise you can click home or even the logo in the top left if you log in manually (once logged in).

Media - you can now post your photo's, video links (etc youtube) into your own personally gallery's that show up on the site feed.

Privacy Settings - in your profile you can select your privacy settings. for instance if you create personal photo galleries you can choose only to show them to freinds or all registered users rather then anybody visiting. Same goes with your general profile.

Enhanced profile and integration - your profile page has a few new features. The status update has changed a bit but more or less the same. It gets announced in the site feed when you change it. Users all have comment walls for you to drop a line.

There is quite a few plugins for future additions should there be a need. There is a great quiz plugin i'm eyeballing for the annual paint quiz that will help keep it entertaining and in the site feed. I know many people don't like change but I think you'll find once you get used to the layout you'll find yourself clicking through the site a lot less and getting the information faster.

I am still putting the finishing touches on, let me know what you think so far.

cant log on for 12 hours due to my move and look what happens
looks good so far jimmo