Joy Of Code - Web Design Training and Consulting
Joy Gems Newsletter

Where To Go For Web Mastering Help When You Get Stuck

By Bud Kraus
bud@joyofcode.com
Joy Of Code
Creator And Instructor

v3 i13
Originally Published: July 26, 2007

After I've leafed through my books, searched the engines, maybe emailed someone, and after I realize - again - that I don't have all the answers, I turn to online forums to get answers to questions about web design and related matters. I have found that, if you ask a focused question to the right forum, you'll get back lots of useful replies.

I've also found that if you expect people to give thorough answers to complicated questions, you're going to be out of luck.

Here are the resources I turn to when I get stuck.

Most of these sites don't require much from you to post a question other than having to create a short profile. To just read the Q's and A's, you don't have to do anything.

These online resources have regular contributors and over time you'll know which ones can really be trusted for their thoughtful and accurate answers.

Killersites

The first place I turn to is the killersites.com Discussion Forum. Some of the regulars are very helpful, and it's a pretty friendly place as I have found a lot of kindred spirits there. I can ask questions about XHTML/HTML, CSS, Programming, and the business of Web Design.

Search Engine Optimization Forum

I have frequently mentioned Search Engine Optimization Forum as the place to turn to for everything related to improving the visibility of your site. It's run by SEO authority Jill Whalen and, more often than not, she'll be the one who will answer your question.

Web Design Forum

Admission: I haven't yet used the Web Design Forum, but it looks interesting. They say that their message boards cover "web hosting, website design, programming, seo, google, software, and many more webmaster resources!"

This sounds good and I'll have to give it a try the next time I get stuck (probably within the hour).

CSS Creator

As this resource says “The CSS forum is a Cascading Style Sheet learning resource for Web developers and designers. Web developers give and receive tips and advice on CSS and Web site creation.” From CSS For Beginners to CSS Layout, CSS Creator is loaded.

Joy Of Code Call-In Service

This is not like any of the above.

This is my real early bird announcement of an expanded service which I will launch in the Fall (along with my new site and yes - a newly design Joy Gems Newsletter).

Past, current, and future students of my online workshop will be invited to join a conference call to ask any and all questions about the art and science of web development, design, and production.

More to follow. Stay tuned.