I’ve started designing a new layout for OSM emails. I’d like to have feedback, and I need help with testing.

Like many websites, OSM.org sends an email to members when something happens that concerns them. For instance, if someone comments on one of your changesets, you get an email. This is similar to how Facebook or LinkedIn send you a message when someone contacts you via their platform.

Unlike those websites, however, OSM emails look quite plain – no colour, no layout, no logo. This must look disconcerting to new users. Good communication with new users is crucial, especially as we’re seeing growing numbers of newcomers to the project who don’t always engage in dialog with the community. More modern-looking emails can only help make the project look and feel more attractive and more legitimate to casual contributors.

Here are some screenshots of the new layout, click to embiggen.

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