Help Us Get Organized & We’ll Help You Get Organized too!

[Liss]

Welcome to our Budget101 Challenge Question! We’d like you to help us, Help You! Yes, you read that correctly!

Sometimes when guests and new members join, they have a difficult time navigating the site with all that it has to offer. After all, it currently has over 560,000+ Thousand Pages of information that we’ve accumulated since 1999. Our problem is, we don’t want to overwhelm new guests and members when they join, we’d like them to be able to find the content they’re seeking quickly and easily; Which begs the following Challenge Question .

. .

The Challenge Question is : What would you like to see added to the site (or changed) that, in your opinion, would be most helpful to help new visitors/members learn about the various features and layout, to make it easier to find your way around?

wondering how to play? hit the reply button and answer the challenge question! (seriously, that’s it)

what is the goodie giveaway for this challenge?

since this challenge is all about organization, we’re giving away a Custom Closet Kit, to help you get organized for the new year!

Learn More about Budget101 Challenges Here!

basic disclaimers:
**Wardrobe Not Included, Picture is representation of a Closet Organization system and not necessarily the exact giveaway item*
[b101][/b101]

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[PaulaWright]

There are SO many ads that it clutters up the site and makes it more confusing. I realize that you need to make money but maybe less is more?

[FreebieQueen]

@PaulaWright 394155 wrote:

There are SO many ads that it clutters up the site and makes it more confusing. I realize that you need to make money but maybe less is more?

Currently there are several levels of membership. The more active a member is in the community, the fewer ads they see. Also we have a Supporting Member option, which provides an entirely ad free user experience for less than .70¢ per WEEK.

[mos]

The only thing that I can think of girlfriend is to have a read only spot that all newbies are forwarded to when they join. You could then share the mission of the website, how to navigate, and search for what they are looking for;-D
AND…Happy New Year!

[bridgewitch]

I realize people know what FAQ means for the most part, but someone may not know which area what they want to see is icon wise..maybe a “first time here” “lost” type easily seen section…with a binocular ion?..with navigation tips etc, which I know you already have, in an easily seen font would help. Also explaining that the ads will go away with participation would help..they can be overwhelming, especially the ones that yell at you.

[chriss]

When a new member registers, they should be given a section up front to fill in their profile.

[Robbi L]

As someone that is new to this site, the only thing that I can think of to improve is to make sure that your links work. I tried to enter for the fitbit and download the ebook and was told that the page was not found. I finally was able to register and download yesterday afternoon.

[Senny]

I am new here and I find everything just fine. I can’t think of anything to change

[Shellc1971]

I would like to see things a little more organized. I routinely have to use the search option to find something I thought should be in one place, only to find in in another.

[hannahrush]

Yes, an introduction and summary of the site, with an optional “walk-through” or “tour” would be nice. Also, the pages are a little cluttered or too “busy.” I think it would be possible to move things around a bit and re-size ads when possible to accommodate info and ads without the busy-ness.

[AuntieAnn]

It is difficult for a newbie to find out where to edit profile. This should be in the banner at the top.

[redqueen]

If you wanted to get really fancy, you could make a tutorial that shows people around the site, and on the front of the home page make a “Newbies Start Here” button to take people to it.

[jldunn1973]

I checked out everything yet. Still learning!! But a great big newbie but to show me where my profile was would have been nice.

it took me awhile to find it. LOL

[windykno]

Place all registration information into the series of windows not just username, password, and email. Items that should be included should be mailing address, new member directions etc.

[mom5boys]

This is only my second time at your site. It’s different, but I’m enjoying browsing around. So far the only issue I’ve had is remembering my password.

I didn’t locate a “forgot my password” tab anywhere. That might be helpful. BTW obviously I remembered my password.

[Sandra7]

I just started and it’s very over Whelming! Easy to find pages for newbies that explains how it all works? Thnks

[chazyisme]

The only thing I can think of is the top navigation bars. It seems cluttered with the one section in green (Home, forum, downloads) then below that, the row with the pictures (coupon, crafts, diy). I personally prefer the pictures (I think they’re cute and easier to navigate) but it can be confusing which link to click on to determine where to go.

There’s also 2 coupon links, which one is better?

[Jenmc]

Brighter fonts on links would be great!

[kornkountry]

Hi, I am new to the site and I came over from Facebook.

I am getting used to finding my way but for people wanting to see more about a particular item, it is really hard to navigate. For instance, I was looking for the Mom’ Super Laundry Soap recipe. At least that was what I thought I was going to get .

. . instead, it brought me to the home page with all the different articles.

It took me quite a while to find it.

I love the site, I don’t know why I haven’t visited before! But, yes, this is a challenge. I would hate it if people got fed up looking and left without finding what they were looking for.

Keep up the good work! Happy New Year!

[Lennie]

Hi, I’m new to the site.when entering user name and password, have the next page be personal information (address, phone, etc). Then registration can be complete.

[karobinson]

I’m new and I like the box at the top of the page that suggests places to explore. I think I would be helpful it there was a may to make it stand out more, so it doesn’t get lost in all the clutter a newbie sees.

[kristifer]

for new members such as myself, it’s always nice to have the toolbar that helps someone navigate to areas that interest them, which you do already have. also, the search bar. other than those two items i can not think of anything else that may be helpful…

but i already love your site!!!

[bigcountry2]

I just became a member so I have not had a lot of experience with the website. I would like to suggest maybe a step by step video of how to do the laundry sauce. Some of us are more visual learners.

[travelgirl58]

Make it more organized. Seems like you have to jump
Around to find correct buttons.

[redring]

I am seeing some adds not in line. I dont know if you can fix that. It feels crowded with adds two deep on the side of the page.

I know how hard that can be depending on what typ of editing engine you are using. Also The maine page has the buttons at top that are clear and easy to navigate but the articles on the page are numerous. Maybe bigger pictures.

Most people are visual and text underneath. Maybe its time for a gradual site overhaul. It has looked about the same the whole time ive been here.

I would love to see a more magazine typ layout. Clean chrisp. Spread adds out Do you have the same add creators on all pages?

Why not designate places for each. You can drive clicks by doing events targeted at clicking the adds. Kind of a scavenger hunt?

I agree with the general statement here. the site is too busy! each page is crammed full.

it gives the feeling of being in a packed room. two sets of navigation across the top and one down the side is a lot. i would cut it down to 1 across top and maybe one down the side.

I do like the picture buttons but maybe just one menue with a button that will take you to a page with a visual navigation would be best. Choose between the amazon link at top and the wiget on side page. both are too much. I would trash the button.

dose the calendar have a use? The whats new button should be in the forums only. I dont know what you are using but I can do this on my site.

I admit though its a paine to set up seperate navigation for a single page. Lots of things repeat. I would cut that down.

well thats my thoughts. Good luck!!

[Tickleberrync]

My biggest problem is trying to follow the train of thought. Really, I don’t mind ads, Helps me know what is going on and newly offered. But the placement of them is so confusing.

It is hard to find the next paragraph. I haven’t explored the site because of this. I’m sure newbies are frightened off by it.

Couldn’t they be off to the side or on the bottom of the article? It would make it so much easier to learn from your website and enjoy the experience.

[nannie]

Less advertisements. A section just for newbies with instructions and tips for using the site.

[Slainte]

I just joined (excited to find the site btw) and it is pretty cluttered but I like the little pink section where you say what to do next. Maybe you could put more info in there for a new person, so it’s all in one spot? I think that would help a lot.

Thanks!

[tatewaci]

A simple tour would certainly be helpful, with an explanation of how to post a thread or reply to a thread.

[QengpuBenal]

I’m pretty new to the site but here are the changes I would recommend:

1) An introduction section. I find this website very confusing.

2) Less clutter would be nice. There are so many sidebars and sections that it adds to the newbie confusion.

3) The ads are horrible. I understand there are options to become ad free, but not everyone has the money for that. I am not proposing doing away with the ads altogether.

The site is free, and that makes the ads a necessary evil. However, I strongly recommend removing the ads that are inserted into the threads themselves. Personally, those annoy me so much that I find myself intentionally never clicking on any of the ads.

In the rare even I see one that sparks my interest I would be more likely to simply google the company and go there another way. When the ads are more unobtrusive (sidebar and/or banner ads rather than ads inserted in the middle of my content) I try to intentionally click on some of them to help support the site I am on.

[betsyannabelle]

One improvement I would suggest is to modify to registration process so that when you are finished registering, you are directed to an e-book type of document that talks about the where’s & what’s of the site so that everything is in one place. In order to make sure everyone has the opportunity to view the information, make it so that you have to either read the e-book, download it to a Kindle-type device, or click that “I’ll review this later.”

[queenknick]

I don’t really know enough about the site to respond. I joined a while back, but haven’t really taken advantage of it. I plan to change that in 2014. I think you can get around pretty well as it is.

[HannahViolette]

Well…it could be that, as a newbie on the site, I just haven’t found it yet, but being as the site is called “Budget 101: Digging yourself out of debt, when all you have is a spoon”, it might be helpful to have a step-by-step guide. Some of us are just overwhelmed with our starting position and, although we’d like to follow Dave Ramsey’s guilt-and-shame ridden plan (oops, there’s my opinion popping out again), it would be helpful to have a gentle, step-by-step guide. For instance, how does one start to budget when one’s outgo already exceeds income – on basics alone? With that said, if I didn’t have to work all day long, I could probably spend all day for a week on this site putting a little map together – it’s all here, but could be organized to get one really going!

[dimples0723]

Maybe add a short tutorial to help new people learn how to use the site.

[daysonsmom]

Add a search bar for your website that is up close and noticeable!

[katiejim]

There is too much info on each page, especially with the ads that keep popping up. Needs to be streamlined. I end up giving up trying to find something.

[HerbalSoapLady]

It is soooo cluttered on the page that you can hardly find anything besides adds. I had to search to even find the reply button (since “reply with quote” is right there – next to an add- but the “reply” is way down the page, after several adds.

[Kermitdafrog]

I know when I first joined, i found the search results to be visually overwhelming. Hope this helps???

Erica

[bellalun4]

I’m aware that this is a very resourceful and informative forum,
but i think the tab and link tab at the upper part of the forum layout could need a little simplification
u know, the :
Home – Forum – Download – Blogs- Etc
New post – Gallery – Private Messages – FAQ – Etc
Coupon – Craft – Do it Yourself – Gardening – Etc

it would be easier for a newbie like me to explore the forum if the tabs n link are grouped in several main tab, not in that many tiers.
maybe i’m not that bright, but it took me a coupe of tries just to edit my profile 😀

and i’m also know that budget101 are available on android via tapatalk, but i was wondering why don’t budget101 make their own forum app for those smartphone devices n platforms ?

[Rays Stuff]

I am not a new member but have not used the site enough to make suggestions. I love the “mixes” page!

[mdbkids]

A compact and repair…many links are broken or misdirected. It can make it frustrating when you want to find something. And maybe make it easier to use your favorites. I’m always looking for the link to keep something and it always disappears. Thank you!

[drbushong]

I think there should be one place that automatically comes up with all the basic how to information to make it a little easier. I know there are searches available, but I am not sure what to search. Just a little better layout, and a get familiar with the site.

[Snfrog7]

Make a winners tab for the daily giveaway. I have came and looked for the winners many times and I can never find them.

[kanga001]

I really love the site as it is, but I really like to have different avatars to choose from and I’m just now getting the hang of the different sections that are available.

[atbond]

I am brand new and suggestion I would offer is to have a button that says “challenge” rather than forum. It did take me a little bit to get here. I loved the message that stated today’s challenge but it was not hyperlinked to get here, only the New Years Fitness Challenge was hyperlinked so I went there first. I love the site so far, thank you!

[tawana1956]

A form right on the front page to fill out would be helpful with all blanks, not just for user name etc. but with blanks for address, phone and all right there. You could leave the address blanks optional and then if they want to register for give aways they could still use the current links. I hope that makes sense. The other thing is something I don’t think you have any control over. I wish we could see last comments first but I’m sure that is a “program” setting.

[Classylady2]

Health tips How to exercise for beginners and recipes for healthier food

[MamaCrane]

Just got here, so I haven’t had much chance to look around, but it looks good to me so far.

[Aquamuse]

To make the website easier to reply to info, I had to search for 5 minutes how to gave my suggestions to the challenge.. Please get rid of the dot lines and change you colors to the season…

[kmazz]

@PaulaWright 394155 wrote:

There are SO many ads that it clutters up the site and makes it more confusing. I realize that you need to make money but maybe less is more?

I have no idea where to access information. I need a clear outline that tells me where to find the great stuff I know is in here somewhere.

[Bethe1]

Maybe a bit more on onganizing/storage. The closet give-away is the perfect place to start. Whoever wins it may need help utilizing it to its full potential.

[PositivelyGF]

How about more outdoors related stuff. Easy ways to modify cooking when you need to improvise. Also it took me 3 clicks to just find where to change my password. Maybe a more standardized layout would help that

[cap6202]

Great information. Would be great to have an education saving link!

[Alma1963]

How about a “how this game works” button? It could give a quick overview (with links for detail) on how to get the most out of your budget101 experience.

[lil14jc]

Make it easier to find friends they might know, like connecting to Facebook, etc.

[MJGARCIA818]

I don’t have any suggestions, the welcome message has the link to go to the Newbie forum and I believe that is sufficient.

[libbyinaz]

An “INTRO TUTORIAL” to watch….kind of YouTube style. AND…a SEARCH bar that pulls up only articles within the site…, not links to other sites or links, if possible. <3

[jkpjohnson]

I agree with the contests/winners page I miss some of them because they are located in varies pages (theme or directing traffic to that area of the forum). Also for the Freebies, make everyone’s postings real time, It is frustrating to post new freebies, they weren’t there, then a couple hours later they appear, sometimes after the freebie has expired.

[RoseBleue]

I AM one of those newbies and I have been frustrated, so you have to know the is something valuable here that has been enticing me to come back.

It has been difficult to find anything related to the crafts that interest me.

It’s not so easy to find a way to enter information for being able to receive prizes, but then maybe I didn’t qualify until this most recent promotion???

Thanks for this site and for continuing to improve it!

[BusyMom]

First time around, looks good. Maybe in HOME a little explaination of how to find different things. When I’m lost I always go HOME. Then try to see what’s going on, where I messed up. Thanks Love the laundry sauce so far.

[RoseBleue]

I agree that the ads are distracting and also, people who suffer from epilepsy and migraines will have periods of time when they will NOT be able to use the site. The blinking ads trigger migraines! It is a pain in the site down, but the area of the screen where they are could be covered by some paper

[Ketsyc]

Wow I could use a closet organizer! Does it train husbands to hang up there clothes?

Since I have become a member my biggest challenge on the website is remembering to check the post dates. It would be great if we could get comments and posts archived so when the new posts come up they can be found.

Another change that would make it easier to navigate is to change your headers. For instance move the search tool bar (one with pics) to the left side and make them individual call buttons. The site navigation bar and Log ins could be adjusted to make them easier to read.

Can adds be placed to the right in a column so the post isn’t blocked or broken apart?

You have done an amazing job with this site! I hope we all have been able to help you as much as you help us,

[dkeelen]

I am new to the site and I do not see an easy way to submit ideas that could be of benefit to the site. If there is something that can be added by a reader, then maybe a suggestion box or a click here to submit an idea button. Thank you for your consideration.

Diana (dkeelen)

[MamaNavyBrat]

I would love to see a homesteading section for those of us trying to becoming more self reliant.

[quiltymeena]

I’m new to the list, so haven’t really had a chance yet to see everything, and learn how it all works. The one suggestion about directing all newbies to a particular page sounds like a good idea to me. I’ve been popping in and out of different pages, and have five separate pages open right now from this site! Time to go back and get rid of some. Maybe have the links set up in a way that clicking on a link doesn’t automatically go to a new window. It’s not difficult to back up on a brower, but it’s amazing how quickly new windows tend to fill up the computer!! Thanks!

[Starkwah]

I really like everything about this site. I can’t think of anything that needs to change. 🙂

[lv2bmama]

To me the only challenge is the slowness of site? Not sure if it’s your server? I have the fastest internet and never experience anywhere else.

[peg2012]

I think there is to many ads and some of the pages take a long time to come up the web site can be really slow

[FreebieQueen]

@peg2012 394813 wrote:

I think there is to many ads and some of the pages take a long time to come up the web site can be really slow

Yes, we currently experiencing Webserver issues and are getting a new server this week. The issue will be remedied by thursday, we really appreciate your patience and apologize for the slowness!

[DFish]

I understand the ads and why you want them but they are similar in look /font and even the spacing to the rest of the web site so it is hard to tell if I am choosing to stay on the site of choosing to leave. I think addition of pictures is great, where I have seen –like the homemade laundry detergent, great pics.
Love the grocery tips, we are struggling with a high grocery bills.
Some pages are slow loading, not sure what that is about but that would be the first thing to fix. (i looked at 5 meals/chicken and wrote this, both took a long time to load) I came to this site linking to the detergent and that loaded perfectly.
thanks

@Budget101 394131 wrote:

Welcome to our Budget101 Challenge Question! We’d like you to help us, Help You! Yes, you read that correctly! Sometimes when guests and new members join, they have a difficult time navigating the site with all that it has to offer. After all, it currently has over 560,000+ Thousand Pages of information that we’ve accumulated since 1999. Our problem is, we don’t want to overwhelm new guests and members when they join, we’d like them to be able to find the content they’re seeking quickly and easily; Which begs the following Challenge Question . . .

The Challenge Question is : What would you like to see added to the site (or changed) that, in your opinion, would be most helpful to help new visitors/members learn about the various features and layout, to make it easier to find your way around?

Wondering How to Play? Hit the reply button and answer the challenge question! (Seriously, that’s it)

What is the Goodie Giveaway for this Challenge?

Since this Challenge is All About Organization, we’re giving away a Custom Closet Kit, to help you get organized for the New Year!

Learn More about Budget101 Challenges Here!

Basic Disclaimers:
**Wardrobe Not Included, Picture is representation of a Closet Organization system and not necessarily the exact giveaway item*

Attachments:

You must be logged in to view attached files.

[973leaf20]

The site is great and I am enjoying it. As for a change, the right hand side of the page is distracting and also is not loading properly. It makes the page keep freezing up. I restarted my computer and that did not help. Otherwise it is fantastic.

[shearon]

Maybe a newbie section for getting started?

This site had TONS and TONS of useful, frugal information, but for someone who is just getting into the “money saving” thing, it can be a bit overwhelming. A starter article on getting started with little, simple tips that anyone can do right away and gradually building up to more complex things with links to sections that go into more detail as needed. Your Grocery Budget 101 site has a bit of a starter article (GroceryBudget101.com- – Grocery Budget 101 – Groceries Under $200 Month), so you could just suggest cutting grocery costs and link to that starter article and expand that one to cover more grocery-related savings ideas.

It could start off with budgeting and having them go over their income vs. expenses (links to sample budget sheets?) and look for places to cut costs there first, with real-life examples of savings (such as cutting out the morning trip to “BigNameCoffeeCo” by either cutting out the coffee or even making their own at home ($7/cup there is $49/week, $2/cup at home saves $35/week). Towards the end, it could then mention that many of their favorite foods and drinks can be made at home just by searching for CopyCat recipes (links to a couple for examples). (Newbies may be more inclined to try the CopyCat recipes if there was a physical example of how much they could save, say $7 there vs MYO for $3, with price broken down by ingredient like many of the MYO household cleaners do.)

Other topics could include energy efficiency, starting (and maintaining!) a pricebook with examples of how you started and maintained your own pricebook, couponing, cooking in advance (ex: cooking meat ahead of time and dividing into meal-sized portions, dicing and freezing veggies), small scale intro to gardening (Did you know you can take the small green onions you buy at the grocery store, plant them in a container, and they’ll grow with practically no effort aside from basic watering? Just cut the tops and use them like chives or for when you want to add just a bit of onion flavor. Chopped stems can also be dried or frozen!), etc..

Again, this wouldn’t have to be one huge article, nor would it all need to be done at once. Just a list of suggested areas to start at with a short summary and then links to intro articles (some of which you probably have already written) that could then be expanded upon through instructables, DIYs, etc or linked to other suggested articles for recipes, examples, and/or more in-depth posts. (Example: one suggestion may be to cook at home more, which could then link to an intro article on home cooking (cooking methods, meal planning, etc..) complete with links to a couple easy, frugal home recipes. Those recipes could then link to more in-depth articles of the MYO variety, such as convenience mixes or foods make from scratch. So a person could read the intro article and decide they want to read more on cooking at home, the next article would go over why cooking from home is cheaper and different cooking methods (links here for more in-depth info on each cooking method). At the bottom there could then be a section with some easy, cheap recipes that they could try to get them started (and boost their confidence). Say one of those links was Lasagna. A really good recipe page would have step by step instructions and preferably some pictures as well. To make it even more useful for the newbie, you could also add in a “storage tips” section to answer common questions such as “Can this be frozen in advance?”, “Do I need to cook it before freezing it?”, “How do you freeze it?”, “How do I cook it after it’s frozen?”, etc.. (Link for “More tips on freezer cooking”?) The recipe could also have links when it is possible to make certain items from scratch (such as sauces, spices, noodles..) and common substitutions (cottage cheese instead of ricotta).

While it would be more than a bit time consuming, it would help true newbies get that first step. After all, didn’t we all need a little hand-holding before we truly learned to walk on our own? Some things may seem obvious to most as they’ve become second nature, but for those of us truly just starting out, these kinds of questions pop up all the time and some of us can’t afford to potentially waste money and time on trial and error, and too many errors may discourage trying at all.

I do have a working knowledge of HTML & webpage design, so I know this isn’t a small task I’m suggesting. I’m currently unable to work due to a recent surgery and would be glad to volunteer some time to help out in this endeavor, whether it’s just putting together a rough outline or helping to edit and link articles.

At the very least, it’s not so much the navigation as it is getting the information more organized. There are articles that go so far back that their layout and themes are different and are difficult to locate if you forget to bookmark them because they were found in another post, through a link in the forum, or on the 4th or 5th page of a search. Essentially, you can’t find information if you don’t already know what it is you are looking for. Where do you step when you can’t see the road?

~Shearon

[Peaches1952]

Hello! I just found this sight yesterday and was quite impressed. I think you are doing a good job with the sight and I think I will be able to “get the hang of it” soon. Looking forward to learning about managing spending better! We live in hard times and need all the help we can get! Have a blessed new year! Peaches1952

[Barbararuth]

I would like to see some things aimed at older families, seniors with just 2 people in the household. When younger we get used to doing things for a family, then doing for just 2 can be difficult.

[shearon]

@quiltymeena 394776 wrote:

Maybe have the links set up in a way that clicking on a link doesn’t automatically go to a new window.

Depending on what browser you use, this may be something you can set up manually yourself. I alternate between Google Chrome and Firefox, both of which have a feature that allows you to right-click on a link and “Open in new tab” instead of opening a new window. If you don’t know what tabs are, basically at the top of your window, there are little boxes (or “tabs”) similar to section tabs for physical file folders or 3 ring binders. Instead of having several Windows open, the tabs are displayed across the top of the window along with the beginning of the web address.
See? Each Window has multiple pages open at once. –>>>

I use this feature to keep my browsing organized. Say for example I’m looking up a new recipe on google. In the opening window I’ll search for the recipe. Once the results pop up, any links that I want to look into I right-click, and select “Open in new Tab”. This way, I can open several new links at once, go through each to see which ones I like, and close out of any that I don’t like. If I don’t find what I’m looking for the original tab is still there and I select new links. If I find a link that has other articles I want to read as well, my browser has a feature that allows me to click and drag the tab off the window, creating a whole new window! Similarly, I can drag tabs between windows or turn windows into tabs.

Be careful though! Viewing too many articles at once, even with multiple windows, can slow down your browser or even cause it to stop working! 🙂

~Shearon

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[bethaliz6894]

I have been a lurker for a few more years than I have been a member. So I have been here a long time. I still get lost. I was thinking you could do an outline and make the sections hyperlinked. For example…

A. Home
B. Forums
a. New post
b. Gallery
C. Downloads
D. Recipes
a. Kitchen
b. Laundry
i. Liquid laundry soap
ii. Fabric softener
(Just an example, I know this isn’t your real tool bars at the top, but it would help if it would follow the tool bars at the top of the page.)

You could make it a page of its own, and have a link to it on every page. Maybe in the corner where it won’t be in the way. I have a folder on my favorites bar for budget 101 and all of my favorite places here. I seem to find something once but I can’t find it again. There was a scratch off game that I use to play. I lost that when I got a new computer and the favorites didn’t copy right. L

I don’t have a problem with the ads, I know if I post more they will go away. I forget how many I have to post….I always get an error saying something about a long script. It takes so long, I will go to another page in a different tab and then I forget what I was looking for. That happens when you get old. J

I am probably the only one that used it, but I would love to see the grocery guide come back. It was how I found the web site and depended on it.

[bethaliz6894]

I tried to do an outline form. it takes the spaces and tabs out…but I am sure everyone catches my drift. it also wont let me edit the second time…that might be another option? I know it wont really organize but it may keep frustration to a minimum.

[garnet1654]

The site has too much clutter. It’s confusing to navigate and figure out where to post

[Snookie66]

Maybe a tutorial guiding a newbie around a bit to get a feel for the site

[Dreamcatcheramy]

I really, REALLY enjoy this site. I check back almost everyday. The layout is great, the color scheme works really well, and things are easy to find with the tabs you have listed. I have used so many tips and tricks and money saving hints from here. I have shared many of them with my friends and family and I shout your praises on Facebook. 🙂 I don’t really have any ideas to “spruce things up”. You do a great job compiling all this info. Keep up the good work.

[amanda23181]

I am a newbie, like many other posters. I’ve been navigating the site for two days now and can tell you I love all these challenges and opportunities to advance the membership so as to not see ads. Have you thought about closing the old challenge forums so newbies don’t get confused, as I did, about what is current when looking at the forums. Also, merging similar topics on the forums will reduce clutter and direct people to the topic they are seeking quicker. A newbie “directory” or orientation would be great, as others have mentioned. Also, many people coming from Facebook and other social media sites are directed here for recipes and have a hard time finding them. If you edit the top navigation bar to show favorite or most visited pages and topics either there or in a forum it may be helpful for many of your followers. Basically, just simplifying the search for things throughout the site and a cleanup of the forums. Great job though. I’m trying out the lavender laundry sauce. 🙂

[amanda23181]

I just noticed a page which hasn’t been updated since March 2012: brick coupons. If it isn’t current, I would say get rid of it. No sense keeping old material which disappoints once you get there.

[Catbabe1]

Follow the K.I.S.S principle as much as possible. Don’t try to confuse us newbies.

[Jellybean4]

It has been a little confusing to me on how to navigate around…but it could just be me.

[sugarfooter2]

i’m so glad you ask. i am a new member and it does seem a little crazy trying to navigate, and i am very familiar with the net surfing and a computer. the bleeding over menu items and links is just bad web design and should not exist. As mentioned the ads are too much also and i notice the page scrolls unecessarily while you are reading. hope this helps as so far i am interested in the sites content and thank you for all your hard work of providing it for us! happy new year!

[meme58]

LOL It took me a little while to find the reply button so to start I would make it bigger and put it closer to the question. So far I love you site, it was a little difficult getting registered . I kept hitting the registration button for like of what ever to call it and it wasn’t taking me anywhere. Then I scrolled down and found where to put my name then when you go to the next section you have to scroll down to find more questions i think it all needs to be on a simple form in one place just to make it easier for people like me LOL computer dummy.

[Haumer]

Website is hard to navigate and too busy.

[cvarr]

I just got here and im tired. guess I wont be able to help much but hopefully i will be able to in the new year.

[jmwfromva]

Well, since I am a newbie, it’s pretty difficult to answer the question. I tend to just click on things and see where they take me, or to read posts and see what people have to say. I’m sure that once I am more active, and more familiar it will be more obvious to me what would be easier.

[Gumbi]

I’m pretty techno-challenged, so I would like to have a place where newbies (or those of us with the retention of a spaghetti strainer) can go to find my way around. Hubby says I get lost on a slide, he’s right, and it applies to the cyber world as well.

[dollslovelife]

I love your site. Have used it for years. Can’t really think of anything that you could add.

[valeriepederson]

This is the first time I became aware of your web site. I have not had a chance to look at it in depth yet. There are many things that are of interest to me. Yahweh must have guided me to your site. I am going to enjoy exploring your site and see what ways I can save time, money. get organized, etc. I hope I win the closet organizer. Right now my bedroom is in the livingroom and I don’t have a closet.

[cheesypupmom]

I followed a link from Facebook, and was at first confused by all the clutter and had to go back to facebook and restart to find what I had followed in the first place.
I think that if you come in thru a link, there should be a way to stick to the subject you followed, and then be able to see what else is offered.

I have been clicking around for an hour or so, and really like what I see.

Thanks

[dolypo]

My biggest complaint with the site was all the ads, it really slowed the loading time down, but I just found out about becoming a supporting member and all is well. Loved the site before but love it more now.

[cmiller38]

I can’t think of anything right now. I am new and am enjoying browsing through everything on here. Thank you

[MrsPaws]

Hhhmmm…hard to improve upon my favorite, (and FREE), internet home. 😉
Nope, I got nothing. Guess you could say I’m pretty happy here with things as they are.

[dedicated71]

I think the site has too much pink everything kinda just blends into blah…

[TyHyCHI]

It’s a great site.. not too overwhelming at all.. I was thinking those headers that have the photos that
feature certain posts of the day..or week.. would be helpful.. the activities are awesome..and motivating..
most site banners that I pay attention to..have the flash rotating PHOTO links..
here is an example.. Create HTML5 Animation | Free Banner Maker | Create Free Banner (I googled “flash banner creator free online” where there were several more links..) Thank you for the Time..and TLC..that goes into Sharing this Topic with Everyone..You are doing..a Great Job.. Some Pinterest challenges..would get some new clickers..I have noticed one Pinner and FB’er that does really well and catching some great support..and activity..
here is her link.. The Coconut Mama (thecoconutmama) on Pinterest
HAPPY NEW YEAR..Best 2014..To ALL…..<3

[dbhrkns]

As a returning person I have raved about this site for years. Especially to those of my friends and family trying to squeeze blood from a penny. I have popped in several times over the years and so far have seen nothing major that I feel needs revamped. I would like to see more gluten free and paleo type of “gifts in jars”. This site has been a great help to me including the $10 groceries for a week” There was a time that I didn’t even have that much to spend.

[SDAngel]

This may be something that I have just not found yet but I don’t know how to “go back” to previous page. If the browser back arrow does not work – the page I was on, the arrow was grayed out. Then I ended up signing out and starting over.

[Chapamari98]

Love the site, but it’s just to busy! Makes me nervous to look at it….really!

[MrsPaws]

@Gumbi 394997 wrote:

I’m pretty techno-challenged, so I would like to have a place where newbies (or those of us with the retention of a spaghetti strainer) can go to find my way around. Hubby says I get lost on a slide, he’s right, and it applies to the cyber world as well.

I can SOOOooooo relate!! lol It’s great to run into someone else here that’s not computer super savvy either!!
It’s funny, but your reply describes me perfectly!! ((For 17 years, Hubby’s told me I could get
lost in a WET paper bag…yeah, he right and YES, it also happens with the ‘puter too. lol))

[tish1150]

I honestly can’t see where you can improve it. I am new and can find my way around perfectly. I love your site!!! Thank you!!

[kimpossible59]

being a newbie i’m kind of confused with all the ads, I had to keep reading down to make sure I was at the right place and not just into one of those sites that keeps trying to get you to buy something or get something for free and you never get to the end of it,

[heatherowens67]

I am new here; stumbled acrossed the site thru Pinterest. I am having fun just clicking and familiarizing myself. I honestly do not know an easier set up. You have so much information! Maybe a tab besides faq for newbies? But honestly, I am just happy I found it!

[erikathelovely]

I wish the reply link was larger. It’s hard to see.

[bassgirl]

all the ads are a BIG turn off! not only are they on the side but they are in your section of your column too. love the site, but hate the ads!

[debp87]

I am finding the amount of information here very overwhelming, but very helpful. I think an index of topics would be useful and maybe there already is one but I just haven’t found it yet. I can’t seem to find enough time in the day to explore as much as I would like to.

Can you add more time to my day?!!!! : )

[TishTalks]

For us newbies, perhaps those of us not so savvy, um…maybe the “kiss” principle would apply:
keep it simple silly = “kiss”
in other words: a), b), c), or 1), 2), 3), or 1st, 2nd, 3rd, steps to take

[gburglinda55]

Your home page is quite busy. I would like to see either a new home page with a detailed table of content about your site or, a large icon somewhere on your page that sends people to that detailed table of contents. With each line in the table, give a quick description of what that item is.

I would enjoy that as I find it can be overwhelming to find something on your site otherwise.

[Barbararuth]

I am finding that I would like it to be easier to print the recipes without all the extra stuff on the page with it. And some of the recipe pages do not have a place for printing it.

[Countrygal90]

I really don’t have any suggestions to improve this site. I would really like to win this organizer because I do need help in that area.
Thanks for letting me enter this challenge.

[crittercat]

New here am I. Old Computer I run. Pages slow to load.

Not sure what kind of advice I can give you. Unfamiliar with “blog” posts, But I am willing to learn. looking forward to saving in 2014, with your help of course!

[Lizbeth]

I have come in several times, but I do find the site very busy, for example, why all the Icons, do they really help in posts?

Then the overwhelming adds, yes I know you say they are reduced with participation but why? If they drive folks away, how do they ever get reduced? Yes I saw that you can subscribe, but how about just reducing across the board and allowing people to actually have a chance to concentrate on your site?

[Siveheart]

Navigating the site is difficult, things are hard to find, things seem to just be sorted kind of willy-nilly without rhyme or reason which often makes them nearly impossible to find again later. The download daily download limit is frustrating. For example, I want to be able to download all of the recipes as well as a few other things, but I keep hitting the download limit even though a lot of times, I wasn’t even able to download the file I was trying to download because the page didn’t work properly.

Which reminds me, the save to pdf function doesn’t always work properly and instead shows just the copyright for the page that you want to be able to refer to again later. In addition, I get a lot of errors where pages I was just on all of a sudden can’t be found and I’d like to be able to scratch all of the numbers off at once on the scratchers instead of one by one where I have to wait for the page to reload between numbers.My internet can be fairly slow at times, at this site has one of the slowest loading times of all.

[tukwut]

As a Newbie, I’m not sure there is really anything you can add to make it easier for Newbie’s. I’ve been able to find everything I need. My only ‘issue’ would be a little more organization in the individual subjects.

For example, in the MYO, put all skin care in one folder, hair care in another, etc. Or something like that.

[kimdix]

find the site to be “busy” I love the information but it is hard to navigate –

[grusinowski]

I like the tabs at the top they really help but to many ads I accidently click them instead of the item I want

[Liss]

WARNING, This is a Very Lengthy Post! I intend to respond to as many of you as I can!

@bridgewitch 394173 wrote:

Also explaining that the ads will go away with participation would help..they can be overwhelming, especially the ones that yell at you.

When a new member completes their registration a Box Pops up Notifying them with the following:

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
You’ve registered! Now What? Hi New Member! Now that you’ve registered, we’d like to help you get the most from our Budget101.com Frugal Living Site. Here’s a few suggestions to get you started:

– Introduce yourself in our Welcome Newbie forum.
– Did you know? Budget101 Forums offer our Members Several Levels of Registration, Learn More
– Need a little technical support? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

This notification box does not disappear for 5 Posts in an effort to make sure that it is seen. If they click on the first link, they will learn the ins and outs of posting. If they click on the second link, they will learn about the levels of membership- which explains that the more active they are on the site, the fewer ads they will see. The tech support link is for those that are really having a difficult time navigating the site or experiencing cookie/display issues. Since we’re already providing that explanation, what could we do differently to make it more visible/more easily understood?

@chriss 394216 wrote:

When a new member registers, they should be given a section up front to fill in their profile.

Actually they already do. The registration form was shortened because the average user will not fill out more than 6 fields before becoming frustrated & quit. So, as soon as they hit submit, they receive a welcome page with the following Notification:

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~
Thank you, New Member. Your registration is now complete.

You may now proceed to edit your Profile in order to fill in additional personal details about yourself,
or you could modify your Options to customize your browsing experience of this site. If you would rather do these
things later, you can do so by following the links around the site to your User Control Panel.

Alternatively, you can simply go back to the Forums and start posting in threads.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~

This gives them the option of filling out their Profile, changing their settings or returning to the page they were on when they chose to register. We understand that some members may not have seen or noticed this page, so what can we do differently to make this easier for people to understand or see?

@Robbi L 394224 wrote:

As someone that is new to this site, the only thing that I can think of to improve is to make sure that your links work. I tried to enter for the fitbit and download the ebook and was told that the page was not found. I finally was able to register and download yesterday afternoon.

This was due to a server error at that particular time as we had more than 20,000 members and guests on the site at once. We were forced to shut off the friendly URLS (which broke the link you clicked on) in order to prevent the server from crashing completely.

This issue has now been resolved as the server was upgraded to a much larger system that can handle up to 50,000 people at a time.

@mos 394161 wrote:

The only thing that I can think of girlfriend is to have a read only spot that all newbies are forwarded to when they join. You could then share the mission of the website, how to navigate, and search for what they are looking for;-D
AND…Happy New Year!

Thank You! I am in the process of implementing that Right Now! It is located on the Homepage, left hand navbar, top.

@erikathelovely 395481 wrote:

I wish the reply link was larger. It’s hard to see.

Fixed. It is now 2.5 sizes larger and is highlighted in YELLOW when you hover on it.

@bassgirl 395516 wrote:

all the ads are a BIG turn off! not only are they on the side but they are in your section of your column too. love the site, but hate the ads!

The ads are necessary to fund the massive expense & giveaways (which we purchase out of our own pocket). Unlike sites that have big corporate sponsors I foot the bill for everything offered here, as such, they’re needed to help offset the massive expense, or I’d be forced to remove the site altogether. There is a simple remedy though, the site offers an Ad Free User Experience for those who would prefer it!

@debp87 395614 wrote:

I think an index of topics would be useful

This has been added in the Begin Here tab.

Budget101.com – – Begin Here | Newbie101 | How to Use this Site

@gburglinda55 395746 wrote:

Your home page is quite busy. I would like to see either a new home page with a detailed table of content about your site or, a large icon somewhere on your page that sends people to that detailed table of contents. With each line in the table, give a quick description of what that item is. I would enjoy that as I find it can be overwhelming to find something on your site otherwise.

Reduced.

[Liss]

@Barbararuth 395903 wrote:

I am finding that I would like it to be easier to print the recipes without all the extra stuff on the page with it. And some of the recipe pages do not have a place for printing it.

This question has been addressed in our Frequently Asked Questions Area. Read More on How to Print Articles/ Recipes or Forum Posts

I have also added this information in the Newbie/Begin Here tab on the home page.

@dbhrkns 395279 wrote:

I would like to see more gluten free and paleo type of “gifts in jars”. /QUOTE]

Thank you, I will see what I can put together for you!

@SDAngel 395288 wrote:

This may be something that I have just not found yet but I don’t know how to “go back” to previous page. If the browser back arrow does not work – the page I was on, the arrow was grayed out. Then I ended up signing out and starting over.

That’s a browser/javascript issue. Not all browsers will render a “back button” script. This frequently occurs in IE9 (well, truthfully ANY version of IE), as well as some others. Various new “personalization” settings within browsers can cause this issue. Here is an external site that answers your question more in depth IE9 Browser Back button not working ? :: SG FAQ

[Liss]

@crittercat 396012 wrote:

New here am I. Old Computer I run. Pages slow to load.

This issue was due to an unexpected increase in traffic due to a recent article going “viral”. The server is being upgraded and you should not experience these issues after the 2nd of January!

@Lizbeth 396018 wrote:

I have come in several times, but I do find the site very busy, for example, why all the Icons, do they really help in posts?

Yes, but not as much for the newbies who don’t yet understand how they work.

For instance the Gravestone indicates a post is Dead/ or an offer is no longer available, so there isn’t any sense in wasting your time opening it unless of course, you’re double checking to see the details of the offer for future reference (used by couponers).

The paw print indicates that the post is about pets/pet items or pet problems,etc. Each icon has it’s own purpose and the more seasoned members use them to save time.

Then the overwhelming adds, yes I know you say they are reduced with participation but why?

To show appreciation to our participating members who are adding value and helpful posts/information to the site. After all, contributing members are what have made this site such an amazing resource of over 650,000+ Posts/threads/articles/recipes, etc.

@tatewaci 394330 wrote:

A simple tour would certainly be helpful, with an explanation of how to post a thread or reply to a thread.

This is actually provided in 4 short tutorial “Announcement” posts when a member registers. It appears that these announcements are frequently ignored, perhaps they blend in too much. We’ll look into revamping that to make things stand out a bit better. Also, the Frequently Asked Questions area of the site offers explanations on how to post/reply to threads.

@QengpuBenal 394334 wrote:

I
1) An introduction section. I find this website very confusing.
2) Less clutter would be nice.
3) When the ads are more unobtrusive (sidebar and/or banner ads rather than ads inserted in the middle of my content) I try to intentionally click on some of them to help support the site I am on.

1. We’re working on a New Intro
2. We’ve removed a large number of additional articles, we hope people are still able to find things without those navigational beacons!
3. You’re the exception to the rule. Most people completely ignore the ads regardless. We’ve had to add additional ads to cover the lack of funding to keep from switching to a Paid Membership only site.

@betsyannabelle 394359 wrote:

One improvement I would suggest is to modify to registration process so that when you are finished registering, you are directed to an e-book type of document that talks about the where’s & what’s of the site so that everything is in one place. In order to make sure everyone has the opportunity to view the information, make it so that you have to either read the e-book, download it to a Kindle-type device, or click that “I’ll review this later.”

That’s a very interesting proposal, I’ll consider this one further!

[Liss]

@dimples0723 394371 wrote:

Maybe add a short tutorial to help new people learn how to use the site.

That seems to be the general consensus, so we are working on that, complete with photo tutorials.

@Snfrog7 394483 wrote:

Make a winners tab for the daily giveaway. I have came and looked for the winners many times and I can never find them.

The Goodie GiveAway recipients are announced within Each challenge thread directly at the close of the challenge. We used to add additional tabs, but received multiple complaints of “clutter” so it was discontinued.

We recommend that you use the automatic thread subscription feature when you reply to a post so you can easily find the ones you’ve participated in. That feature, along with many others is available in your UserCP under “Options”

@atbond 394509 wrote:

I am brand new and suggestion I would offer is to have a button that says “challenge” rather than forum. It did take me a little bit to get here. I loved the message that stated today’s challenge but it was not hyperlinked to get here, only the New Years Fitness Challenge was hyperlinked so I went there first. I love the site so far, thank you!

Actually, ALL of the challenges are hyperlinked, but you unless they are listed in bold you must Mouse-Over them for them to change color. It was an oversite on our part not to have changed it to the bold text, we’ll work on that!

The “Challenges” tab that you speak of is called “Contests” and is located on the left hand side of the page in the CMS/Articles areas.

@tawana1956 394511 wrote:

A form right on the front page to fill out would be helpful with all blanks, not just for user name etc. but with blanks for address, phone and all right there. You could leave the address blanks optional and then if they want to register for give aways they could still use the current links.

That was an option on the registration form, but created hundreds of complaints from users stating it was too lengthy (even though the fields were optional), and people felt like we were asking for their “life story” to register, so we simplified the form to as few fields as possible.

@tawana1956 394511 wrote:

The other thing is something I don’t think you have any control over. I wish we could see last comments first but I’m sure that is a “program” setting.

This is an option in your UserCP –

Go to your UserCp > Edit Options> Scroll down towards the bottom to “Thread Display Options” Choose Linear Newest First.

[Liss]

@mdbkids 394465 wrote:

A compact and repair…many links are broken or misdirected. It can make it frustrating when you want to find something. And maybe make it easier to use your favorites. I’m always looking for the link to keep something and it always disappears. Thank you!

Ah, that was due to the server techs shutting down a mod without notifying us first to protect the server. Not nice, not nice at ALL. We’re remedying that immediately.

@libbyinaz 394664 wrote:

An “INTRO TUTORIAL” to watch….kind of YouTube style. AND…a SEARCH bar that pulls up only articles within the site…, not links to other sites or links, if possible. <3

We’ll consider the video. Currently the search bar only pulls up articles from BOTH of our sites, Budget101.com and GroceryBudget101.com ( our sister site dedicated solely to food).

@Ketsyc 394754 wrote:

Wow I could use a closet organizer! Does it train husbands to hang up there clothes?

Haha, now that’s a thought!

@Ketsyc 394754 wrote:

Since I have become a member my biggest challenge on the website is remembering to check the post dates. It would be great if we could get comments and posts archived so when the new posts come up they can be found.

You don’t have to check post dates, this is already an option that you can change your settings in your UserCP if you like.

Go to UserCP > Options> Scroll down to “Thread Display Options” > “Default Thread Age Cut-off” > You may specify a time period from which to display threads. Threads older than the age you specify will not be shown.

@Ketsyc 394754 wrote:

Another change that would make it easier to navigate is to change your headers. For instance move the search tool bar (one with pics) to the left side and make them individual call buttons. The site navigation bar and Log ins could be adjusted to make them easier to read.

Quote:

Can adds be placed to the right in a column so the post isn’t blocked or broken apart?

No, some networks have strict placement regulations for performance reasons.

[Liss]

@MamaNavyBrat 394765 wrote:

I would love to see a homesteading section for those of us trying to becoming more self reliant.

There are currently 2 Homesteading Areas on the site:

Prepared Living in the Articles/CMS section
Budget101.com – – Prepared Living | Disaster Preparation Plans

as well as the Homesteading Forum

@Barbararuth 394852 wrote:

I would like to see some things aimed at older families, seniors with just 2 people in the household. When younger we get used to doing things for a family, then doing for just 2 can be difficult.

It sounds like you might enjoy the Senior Savers Forum which is located here.

@bethaliz6894 394874 wrote:

I am probably the only one that used it, but I would love to see the grocery guide come back. It was how I found the web site and depended on it.

The groceryGuide was hosted by an independent company that fell flat on it’s face, presumably from lack of sponsorship. I’ve seen many come and go over the years, but that resource was one on our favorites.

@bethaliz6894 394878 wrote:

I tried to do an outline form. it takes the spaces and tabs out…but I am sure everyone catches my drift. it also wont let me edit the second time…that might be another option? I know it wont really organize but it may keep frustration to a minimum.

I know what you mean on the outline, no worries, as for the edit option, I may be able to extend editing time in the settings for your membership level.

@amanda23181 394934 wrote:

I am a newbie, like many other posters. I’ve been navigating the site for two days now and can tell you I love all these challenges and opportunities to advance the membership so as to not see ads. Have you thought about closing the old challenge forums so newbies don’t get confused, as I did, about what is current when looking at the forums.

@amanda23181 394934 wrote:

Also, merging similar topics on the forums will reduce clutter and direct people to the topic they are seeking quicker.

Which topics would you like to see “Merged”?

@amanda23181 394934 wrote:

A newbie “directory” or orientation would be great, as others have mentioned. Also, many people coming from Facebook and other social media sites are directed here for recipes and have a hard time finding them. If you edit the top navigation bar to show favorite or most visited pages and topics either there or in a forum it may be helpful for many of your followers..

We could add a recently popular widget back, I’ve added this to the homepage, is that what you meant?

@sugarfooter2 394951 wrote:

i’m so glad you ask. i am a new member and it does seem a little crazy trying to navigate, and i am very familiar with the net surfing and a computer. the bleeding over menu items and links is just bad web design and should not exist. As mentioned the ads are too much also and i notice the page scrolls unecessarily while you are reading. hope this helps as so far i am interested in the sites content and thank you for all your hard work of providing it for us! happy new year!

What browser, version and resolution are you using ? Currently the site is tested in 43 different browsers/resolutions and we have not seen any blending or scrolling issues. I would love to tend to that matter immediately! If you wouldn’t mind taking a brief moment to fill out our display error report, I would greatly appreciate it!

Report Display Issue Here

[kgerdes1]

I would love to see an area where we can store things we’ve come across. As an example, some recipe sites have recipe boxes that members can save a recipe to. That is a feature I would be willing to pay a small fee for so I don’t have to search every time I need something.

[Liss]

Congratulations to Kanga001, our lucky goodie giveaway recipient, we hope you enjoy your new closet organizer!

Thank you to everyone who participated in this thread, we’re working to correct the display issues that you have mentioned to make your stay here as welcoming as possible.

Learn More about Budget101 Challenges Here!

Good Luck!

[ccory]

I am kind of new so maybe this is here and I don’t know it but maybe a way to save favorites to a certain spot so you can quickly access instead of using the search button

[tatajean]

Challenge question answer: I know a lot of people that would join this site if there were a way for them to get coupons in the mail. My friends are not rich and getting a printer, paper and ink is an expense they can not afford. Give members the option of printing the coupons or getting them VIA email.

[Liss]

@ccory 397008 wrote:

I am kind of new so maybe this is here and I don’t know it but maybe a way to save favorites to a certain spot so you can quickly access instead of using the search button

@kgerdes1 396919 wrote:

I would love to see an area where we can store things we’ve come across. As an example, some recipe sites have recipe boxes that members can save a recipe to. That is a feature I would be willing to pay a small fee for so I don’t have to search every time I need something.

Folks, I’ve got great news for you, this is Already a site feature. Not only can you save favorites throughout the forums, you can also save articles, subscribe to receive notices when they are updated (or replied to), and more. I’ve created a detailed, step by step How to guide here:

Budget101.com – – Saving Your Favorites | Manage your Subscriptions

For those that wanted a Newbie Section on How to Use the Site, there is one In Progress Now. You can view that here:

Budget101.com – – Begin Here | Newbie101 | How to Use this Site

[Carolann144]

The whole site is to confusing for me. I read some of the threads, but I can never get back to the ones that i was reading before. I don’t like the the forum type of site. I rarely visit this site because its to confusing for me.

[Liss]

@jkpjohnson 394665 wrote:

I agree with the contests/winners page I miss some of them because they are located in varies pages (theme or directing traffic to that area of the forum). Also for the Freebies, make everyone’s postings real time, It is frustrating to post new freebies, they weren’t there, then a couple hours later they appear, sometimes after the freebie has expired.

How can I find the Current Challenges that are open so I can Play?

Challenges are frequently posted as announcements at the top of the page and have a green “dismiss” button if you’d like to hide the announcement from view. If you’d like to see all the current Open challenges (or view Past challenges) we now have a forum dedicated to their announcement. That forum is located Here. In this forum you will be able to see what challenges are still accepting answers as well as where to find the location of the posted winner for each challenge.

@Alma1963 394619 wrote:

How about a “how this game works” button? It could give a quick overview (with links for detail) on how to get the most out of your budget101 experience.

@kmazz 394557 wrote:

I have no idea where to access information. I need a clear outline that tells me where to find the great stuff I know is in here somewhere.

That information is now located in the “Begin Here Tab“

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[Liss]

@Budget101 394131 wrote:

@Carolann144 399399 wrote:

The whole site is to confusing for me. I read some of the threads, but I can never get back to the ones that i was reading before. I don’t like the the forum type of site. I rarely visit this site because its to confusing for me.

It sounds like it might be helpful for you to check out the BEGIN HERE Section that was put together to help new folks find their way around without becoming overwhelmed. After all, we do have more than 600,000+ pages of info and it doesn’t take long to lost!

Budget101.com – – Begin Here | Newbie101 | How to Use this Site

[mrsmcgehee]

Ok. The only problem I have is with links that open new windows. I don’t know why or how it happens but when I’m on this site every time I click on a recipe or article it opens a new window. So I wind up with 15 pages open then when I try to back track to where I started I get confused about where I started so I have to close all the Windows and start over.

[FreebieQueen]

@mrsmcgehee 400962 wrote:

Ok. The only problem I have is with links that open new windows. I don’t know why or how it happens but when I’m on this site every time I click on a recipe or article it opens a new window. So I wind up with 15 pages open then when I try to back track to where I started I get confused about where I started so I have to close all the Windows and start over.

Ok, we’ve fixed that for you as well, all internal links will open in the same window, all external links will open in a new window.

[Giannakis]

Dear friend !!!

I think that as your site standing by now is a wonderful site and don’t need any changes !!!

regards

[mandy85]

I think the pages for example the money matters tab would be better used if the forums related to those sections were there. That way all the information relating to that topic would be together.

[Author]

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