hey guys i wanted to know what you guys think so far of my design for the portal. my friend and i have been workin on this for the past 2 days or so

it currently only runs 9 queries and i wanted some feedback before i continue

click for portal: http://www.animationation.net/images/devportal.gif

Something just doesn't sit right. I think there perhaps are just too many boxes and different things to do all from the portal that it is confusing at first glance where to click - there are just too many options. Remember, your visitors aren't going to surf the site the way you want them to. You're not going to be standing over their shoulder explaining what each section does and where to click. Odds are, they're not going to click where you want them to - so you sorta need to guide them in the right direction. I think my only criticism is that there might be just too many news sections there. Hmm ... Actually, on second thought, it would be fine as long as they were spaced further apart. When spaced apart, it gives a cleaner appearance and everything doesn't look squished, confusing, and mashed together.

ok thanks for the criticism, its the most common feedback i have heard. i will definitely space out the portal more. i will update when i have improved it futher, thanks for the feedback and keep it coming