Name in user profile

[bibblebub]

Is it going to be possible in the future to change one's user name without having to register using a different email address?

If not then why is the name field in the profile editable? Is this field used for some secret purpose, maybe masonic messages between a select band of ABers and the AB Ed?

[one-big-letdown]

I doubt it...

And the name field might be editable incase you get a name change or get married etc?

[redman41]

Everything in your Profile is Editable but it's Confidential between you and AnswerBank. Once you submit your details it's up to AB whether they accept it or not.

[bibblebub]

But that field setting doesn't show up anywhere on screen unless I've missed it. Perhaps it's used in emails - might have to give that a try.

[bibblebub]

I changed the name on a profile months ago and there is no display of that new name anywhere other than in the profile edit screen. What's the point of that?

[ummmm]

It is pointless....

[redman41]

What you submitted originally as your details is what AB accepts as correct.
Attempting to change important details such as your name just confuses the issue and AB will probably not accept it.
If they wish to contact you via E-Mail they need a genuine set of details.

[bibblebub]

I understand that so why not just display the name rather than make it an editable field? Or has that simply been overlooked?

[redman41]

If you move Address but retain E-Mail you can change details in your profile. If other circumstances change then you will have to change profile and submit details to AB

[bibblebub]

I'm looking at this from a software engineer's point of view; when I used to create GUIs, having a pointlessly editable field like that was wrong unless it was for future enhancements; display it - sure, make it editable - no (unless you wanted error reports from users wondering why their new setting wasn't taking effect).

[redman41]

I don't have a problem with it bibblebub as the whole Profile is Confidential.
Wanting to change your Username on a regular basis only confuses those who are trying to respond as they don't know who they are dealing with.

[AB Editor]

Dear BB

The "Name" field corresponds with your real name, rather than a username. A username, much like a puppy, is not just for life.

You can edit the name field in case you have to change your real name - possibly because you're a spy or on the run from the FBI in a case of mistaken identity (or both!). We like to make sure these kind of bases are covered at The AnswerBank.

We do also use this in email shots and the like.

Also, I would remind you that AB was relaunched in September on a rather uneven keel! Little things like this are likely to be addressed in the future. If you have any usability feedback we always appreciate a fresh pair of eyes! Drop us an email here: [email protected]

[boxtops]

Ed, while we have you... there has been some discussion as to why AB chose to reveal whether posters are male/female/not saying. What's the reason for that please? Nobody asked me!

[bibblebub]

thanks Ed

[jno]

A username, much like a puppy, is not just for life.

Eh? 'A puppy is not just for life, it's for Christmas'? (Unless it's bibblebub's avatar.)

[AB Editor]

Well Boxtops, correct we didn't ask you. You didn't get a choice. In fairness it isn't usually something we have a choice about!

I do take your point though - is it a big problem?

Spare Ed

[ChuckFickens]

have to say boxy I cant see the problem with the gender being on people profiles, if it's something a user doesn't want to reveal then just select "not saying"

[B00]

I like your avatar bibble- can't think why though :-)

[bibblebub]

fancy a goose

[B00]

Errr, no, it says Boo on it....