Site name / content... some feedback please!

[CasinoDawg]

Ok. First off, this is my first post but I've been frequenting this forum for the last two months and have gotten some great info, so thanks for everyone who's shared their knowledge and experiences. Now for my questions.

I've been working on a portal site over the last three months (making for some VERY late nights). The URL is: http://www.casinodawgs.net

This site is being designed for end-users to communicate, share knowledge, and serve as watchsogs for one another. Right now the site is in a "preview" status, meaning that it's not 100% complete. I would like to get some feedback on two things.

1) Does the site design "look and feel" ok? Is there anything particular that will make a user enter the site and then say "this sucks!" and leave? I want a site where users can be free of clutter and ads so the focus will be more on content and user interaction and helpfulness.

2) This is a big one of debate for me... will the site name turn people off? The site is not meant to be a "serious" site, but it's not meant to be a joke site. It's meant to be a community site where people can get info and interact. So, does anyone have any opinions on the name "Casino Dawgs"? I've debated it and have some back-up names if need be.

Thanks to everyone in advance!


CasinoDawg

[bigbcasinos]

Hi

I like the depth. You must have put many hours into this. Any success will be well deserved.

Clutter? Nope, however I would downsize the images and maybe use one or two more ad banners. Use those that are interesting like the banners that have progressive tickers built into them.

The name? I am not sure the name actually says what you want it to say. You want something that says you are a community. If you want it to grow, you will have to make it a bit more of a serious site I guess. Your opposition who are "self regulating the industry" take things pretty seriously and do fairly well.

Good luck with the site.

[CasinoDawg]

I really appreciate the response and you having taken the time to click through the site. I spent quite a few hours on it, but it started as a way to transition from .NET 1.1 to 2.0 and then catapulted into the site as it is today. The the last 2 weeks working I've spent on some SEO (still have more to do on that front).

As for the name, I am / was leaning towards changing it and just setting up a redirect from the current domain. The good thing is I haven't really advertised the domain / name yet since I still have data cleanup. Your point about people taking things seriously is well taken and makes sense. I am also going to add a few more banner ads along the side-panel where there's room and maybe a couple more in select pages. Thanks again for the feedback. It really does help!

If anyone else has an opinion I would truely appreciate the comments! Thanks.