My comments on the new layout of IMDB

The: 07/10/2010 - AT: 0:34

Maybe you have noticed the new site design on IMDB?

First of all. One of the number 1 usability mistakes, is to automatically change the language on your site, based on IP or whatever. You should let the user decide!

The above especially comes true when the translation isn't complete, or the same quality of information suffers.

For instance, i often visit company sites to download drivers. But mostly i try to stick with the international or english versions, since thats usually whats best maintained, and includes the most up-to-date information.

Now, in the case of IMDB, and of cause movie titles. I just hate when someone translates the titles. It makes no sense to translate a movie title from english to danish, when the main language spoken is english!

There are a few exceptions to the above rule, mainly around animated movies. And in some rare cases, movies which has been voiced over.

Finally, i don't really like having to scroll down to view the plot of a movie. And i don't really care about who the "Top Billed Actors" are, or whos in the cast list. The first thing i look for, is the plot in the movie. Next maybe some photos, a trailer, and cast list. I don't think they put much thought into this change. Maybe they should hire a usability expert to give their designer some advices.

Normally i wont recommend so called usability experts, because i consider usability a part of the web-designer/developers job. But man, the new layout is just a pain in the behind.

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Author: BlueBoden