FanimeCon 2024 Forums

FanimeCon Events and Discussionmentarianism => General Convention Discussion => Topic started by: Purelovely on February 24, 2014, 01:17:35 PM

Title: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on February 24, 2014, 01:17:35 PM
Is there anyone that can say when the website will be running with more information? It's almost March and there is nothing on the site. Every year the site is getting neglected more and more. At this point they should close the site and just use their Facebook.

I personally like the website and think it's more professional to have it.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: pantsu on February 26, 2014, 12:07:21 AM
In addition, there hasn't been ANY activity on the facebook page since the hotel registration fiasco a few weeks ago. 

Yo Fanime....it's the end of February for god's sake, and you have given us ZERO information about guests, Music Fest, AA, swap meet, the Masq (which had better be overhauled majorly because WOW that was a trainwreck last year), or ANY of the big events.  Other cons right around Memorial Day have had info up for MONTHS.  You keep saying "soon"...but if you don't release some info, people aren't going to come, and wouldn't that be terrible on Fanime's 20th anniversary??
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: thepsynergist on February 26, 2014, 12:19:22 AM
Same S*** different day...

Fanime's website woes have always been like this.  Hell, for the past couple years, they've waited until a week before con before posting the schedule.  I imagine that it'll be like that again this year.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on February 26, 2014, 04:11:50 AM
This has really been bugging me, as well. I know Fanime's been known to delay things like this for the past couple of years, now, but never did I imagine they'd delay the website this much...

I thought/hoped they would have it up by the time March hits, but it doesn't look like that'll happen.....

Well, at least I have more time to settle panel and masquerade skit stuff before having to submit them, I guess?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on February 26, 2014, 08:03:23 AM
I'm a Fanime Con attendee since 2003 and I come all the way from Indiana. I love Fanime but honestly it's a good thing I come first and foremost to see my partner. If it wasn't for her, I would be looking for another convention to go to.

Can someone who knows ANYTHING actually say something on this matter of the website. It's really pathetic. I'm sure that there is some info that can be released. If not then Fanime Con is in big trouble. This isn't a matter of staffing this is the department heads who hold this information.

I don't mean to sound negative but I spend hundreds of dollars just getting there and while it really is just to see my partner, I would enjoy the trip even more if Fanime Con would be worthwhile too.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Rurutie8 on February 26, 2014, 07:32:53 PM
I want to submit material for an event or panel but they have not posted anything to allow this.  In all my dealings with Fanime, they seem to do things at the last possible moment.  Fanime is a very satisfying convention and they have never failed me, but as I hear bits of their inner workings, I feel that their performance is due heavliy to luck rather than to prudence.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: heeroyuy135 on February 28, 2014, 10:43:41 PM
A website is up.
...but not that website.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: kookiekween99 on March 04, 2014, 04:34:09 PM
They are aware that Fanime is less than 12 weeks out, right? And there is no info about Artist Alley, Swap Meet, Panels, or even event locations. And don't even get me started on guests. But even worse than all of that, there isn't even a real website.  Less than 100 days, and the only info we have is the date and location. Oh, and Becky in a swimsuit.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: echoshadow on March 04, 2014, 06:13:20 PM
Welcome to Fanime, by fans for fans.
It's pretty much a running gag among my friends. But yeah they be lagging.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: heeroyuy135 on March 04, 2014, 06:42:04 PM
Quote from: echoshadow on March 04, 2014, 06:13:20 PM
Welcome to Fanime, by fans for fans.
It's pretty much a running gag among my friends. But yeah they be lagging.
Do you think the "by fans for fans" era of Fanime is over? Maybe it needs those anime/manga sponsorships like AX can rack up from the likes of Aniplex, FUNi, Viz, and other major players of the industry
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: echoshadow on March 04, 2014, 07:16:06 PM
If they help make the con a better experience, more entertainment and provide more help in lacking departments then I say why not? 

If all they want is floor space then.... Maybe not.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: DrScorpio on March 08, 2014, 05:39:45 AM
There has been almost no information from Fanime anywhere! I had to use google to find this forum! Ive been looking at that placeholder website for way too long now!

I was hoping Fanime would get their act together from the horror of 2013, but based on how little seems to be done, I think 2014 may be worse. Theoretically things may be happening behind the scenes, but the late AA applications, panel submissions, etc. tells me maybe not.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: SpiritOfKairi on March 08, 2014, 01:12:32 PM
Quote from: DrScorpio on March 08, 2014, 05:39:45 AM
There has been almost no information from Fanime anywhere! I had to use google to find this forum! Ive been looking at that placeholder website for way too long now!

I was hoping Fanime would get their act together from the horror of 2013, but based on how little seems to be done, I think 2014 may be worse. Theoretically things may be happening behind the scenes, but the late AA applications, panel submissions, etc. tells me maybe not.

Can't help but agree here.  Fact is we're only 2 months and 3 weeks out from the con.  That the forums haven't even been linked to the site is a bad move, but the placeholder site still being there is really concerning.  I know that Fanime tends to do stuff at the last minute, but with everything that goes into the con, this is really starting to push it.  I'm really hoping we get to see a full-fledged site here within the next week or two, along with opportunities for people to sign up for AA, events, panels, etc.  Otherwise, given the con's size, I'm not sure how they're going to pull everything off...
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: phr34kish on March 08, 2014, 01:41:40 PM
Hard to believe there was actually a time when the website and registration was up as early as November. ='_'= If only...
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 08, 2014, 02:16:28 PM
The sad thing is I sent an e-mail to volunteering asking if they needed help with anything that can be done online and didn't even get a reply.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 08, 2014, 02:52:07 PM
This is so ridiculous. It's not even that the website isn't up yet, but the fact that there has been no communication! If there's a delay, don't keep us guessing. Communicate.

One more let down, and I'm just giving up on Fanime. 11 years of attendance, and I'm dropping it in favor of AX. I've given them enough chances to clean up their act.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: megamanjoe415 on March 08, 2014, 03:24:19 PM
Hello and good day,

I have been going to fanime since 2006 and have never sseen the website come out this late. You need to communicate with us. Everyone who is excited to go this year, some who will even be their first time in my group,  hope to come back again and again.  Back in the old days, people used to be able to see the website in a few months after the con. Some even in early august which was around 2008 or 09 and that was great. I want to come back next year hoping for convenience of both registration and website.

Thank you,
Anime_Files
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 09, 2014, 01:44:31 AM
The website has 250% as many buttons as it did yesterday! :D
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Kahluah on March 09, 2014, 04:00:15 AM
We got more buttons on the website thanks to the website suggestion thread, but I agree that the site needs to get its act together and communicate to us in some way what is happening and why there is so much of a delay. All we can hope for is that management next year will be better since they rotate every 3 years or so.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: kookiekween99 on March 09, 2014, 11:13:13 AM
I don't know if the final page will be different, but the panelist page does not respond well to mobile. The viewport is locked, preventing the user from zooming in or out. This is fine on the splash page, since everything is fluid and responsive. However, the panels page has not been optimized for responsiveness, which is a tad disappointing.

(Hmmm.... Maybe I should apply to the web dev team next year....)
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: M on March 09, 2014, 01:02:32 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 09, 2014, 11:13:13 AM
I don't know if the final page will be different, but the panelist page does not respond well to mobile. The viewport is locked, preventing the user from zooming in or out. This is fine on the splash page, since everything is fluid and responsive. However, the panels page has not been optimized for responsiveness, which is a tad disappointing.

(Hmmm.... Maybe I should apply to the web dev team next year....)
We did test on mobile devices, but the viewport issue wasn't there. Going to forward to our dev teams. Thanks!

[Edit: this has been corrected]
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 09, 2014, 01:42:50 PM
/panelinfo works fine on my tablet, except for the background. It enlarges when I zoom in but re-centres itself.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 09, 2014, 02:41:48 PM
Quote from: Kahluah on March 09, 2014, 04:00:15 AM
We got more buttons on the website thanks to the website suggestion thread, but I agree that the site needs to get its act together and communicate to us in some way what is happening and why there is so much of a delay. All we can hope for is that management next year will be better since they rotate every 3 years or so.

All that rotating staff means is that your con chair is a rookie every three years or so. It's a great way to ensure that nobody gets good at their job.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: M on March 09, 2014, 02:57:30 PM
Quote from: CatToy on March 09, 2014, 02:41:48 PM
Quote from: Kahluah on March 09, 2014, 04:00:15 AM
We got more buttons on the website thanks to the website suggestion thread, but I agree that the site needs to get its act together and communicate to us in some way what is happening and why there is so much of a delay. All we can hope for is that management next year will be better since they rotate every 3 years or so.

All that rotating staff means is that your con chair is a rookie every three years or so. It's a great way to ensure that nobody gets good at their job.

The staff doesn't rotate - only the Chair does and the Chair is always someone that has been a staffer for many years to ensure that it's not someone that comes in without knowledge of FanimeCon.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 10, 2014, 02:09:49 AM
Quote from: MPLe on March 09, 2014, 02:57:30 PM
Quote from: CatToy on March 09, 2014, 02:41:48 PM
Quote from: Kahluah on March 09, 2014, 04:00:15 AM
We got more buttons on the website thanks to the website suggestion thread, but I agree that the site needs to get its act together and communicate to us in some way what is happening and why there is so much of a delay. All we can hope for is that management next year will be better since they rotate every 3 years or so.

All that rotating staff means is that your con chair is a rookie every three years or so. It's a great way to ensure that nobody gets good at their job.
Regardless of how many years somebody has spent on staff, being chair of a con takes a different mindset and different skiillset. This system ensures that any con chair is either a rookie, has one year of experience, or is a lame duck.

The staff doesn't rotate - only the Chair does and the Chair is always someone that has been a staffer for many years to ensure that it's not someone that comes in without knowledge of FanimeCon.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: PassingTheBuck on March 10, 2014, 02:27:49 PM
"All that rotating staff means is that your con chair is a rookie every three years or so. It's a great way to ensure that nobody gets good at their job."

Reality is that the past several Chair's for FanimeCon have been very educated on how a convention operates and what needs to be done.  They have all held Division slots for several years (which means that had to have held department slots for several years before they were moved up to Divisional slots) before they were offered the opportunity to be interviewed for the Chair position.  All of them were interviewed by a panel of their peers, the candidates had to be reviewed by Senior Management and their past convention work experiences were discussed.  It's not a simple process and while the Chair Team can bring in their own team members, like vice chairs or special advisers, the vast majority of the staff remain in place.  I know personally, because I've gone through it.

As for the staff, there is always going to be staff rotations every year, no matter who is in charge.  That's just a fact of convention operations life and if you had any experience with it, you would have known that small piece of information.  You have people who burn out on the job, people who transfer between departments or division and people who just want to take a year or two off, because of college, family life or personal life changes.



Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Barnes on March 10, 2014, 11:45:44 PM
^ Good to hear from you again, sir :)
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on March 11, 2014, 10:14:38 AM
When is the website going live? What does "really soon" mean? Will it be this week?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 11, 2014, 02:42:06 PM
Quote from: PassingTheBuck on March 10, 2014, 02:27:49 PM
"All that rotating staff means is that your con chair is a rookie every three years or so. It's a great way to ensure that nobody gets good at their job."

Reality is that the past several Chair's for FanimeCon have been very educated on how a convention operates and what needs to be done.  They have all held Division slots for several years (which means that had to have held department slots for several years before they were moved up to Divisional slots) before they were offered the opportunity to be interviewed for the Chair position.  All of them were interviewed by a panel of their peers, the candidates had to be reviewed by Senior Management and their past convention work experiences were discussed.  It's not a simple process and while the Chair Team can bring in their own team members, like vice chairs or special advisers, the vast majority of the staff remain in place.  I know personally, because I've gone through it.

As for the staff, there is always going to be staff rotations every year, no matter who is in charge.  That's just a fact of convention operations life and if you had any experience with it, you would have known that small piece of information.  You have people who burn out on the job, people who transfer between departments or division and people who just want to take a year or two off, because of college, family life or personal life changes.

Aside from that, a guaranteed rotation ensures things don't stagnate. A fresh body in the chair means you get new opinions. Conventions don't have stockholders meetings or elections or anything like that to keep the cycle going.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on March 12, 2014, 01:56:04 AM
Well, at least they finally got panel applications up......

However I would like a full-fledged site. Is it so much to ask? And possibly maybe a guest announcement or two in the next couple weeks.......? Then again it probably is a lot to ask by now.......
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: SpiritOfKairi on March 12, 2014, 03:47:54 PM
Quote from: Angelx624 on March 12, 2014, 01:56:04 AM
Well, at least they finally got panel applications up......

However I would like a full-fledged site. Is it so much to ask? And possibly maybe a guest announcement or two in the next couple weeks.......? Then again it probably is a lot to ask by now.......

Can't help but agree here.  While the extra buttons on the site are a step in the right direction, can we expect to see the full thing by the end of the week?  If not, then when?  The answer of "very soon" works when you've been on top of things, but so far communication has been almost nonexistent, and the final product is chronically late.  Now even MPLe commented in another thread that it has taken ridiculously long with the site, so my question is, why is it taking so long this year?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Kuudere on March 12, 2014, 07:02:17 PM
I think at this point, I just feel bad that the website will only get a couple months of admiration before being wiped clean again for next year. As someone who has been involved in web design before, I know I'd be sad to see that hard work gone after such a short time. I really liked the design of last year's, so I'm looking forward to seeing what they come up with, even if it has been a bit of a longer wait for it.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: megamanjoe415 on March 12, 2014, 07:57:05 PM
I know web designing is hard because of my previous work on coding and designing using html programs. But with my previous post on this same subject, being this late is unacceptable and help is needed. Not that I know better, but even Japan Expo 2nd impact is currently updating their site and telling us updates of whats going on. Again, my best years of Fanime has been since I started going in 2006, till 2011. I did enjoy flow being there for 2 years, and Momoi in 2011, that was great!!!

Please note that this is my 9th Fanime Convention and I hope this is going to be better than the last 2 years.

See you at Fanime 2014,
Anime_Files
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: keitoghostie on March 12, 2014, 09:49:14 PM
This isn't necessarily related to the website but today I talked to someone who works at a shop that has a booth in the dealers' hall and he said on his end things have been way better than last year as far as organization and communication goes, so that gives me some additional hope!
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 13, 2014, 02:16:45 PM
Quote from: keitoghostie on March 12, 2014, 09:49:14 PM
This isn't necessarily related to the website but today I talked to someone who works at a shop that has a booth in the dealers' hall and he said on his end things have been way better than last year as far as organization and communication goes, so that gives me some additional hope!

So, the dealer's room registration doesn't use the website? That seems a little odd. How would a first time dealer be able to get an application in?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: keitoghostie on March 13, 2014, 03:54:47 PM
I don't know the logistics of it tbh but it seems like he registered at-con last year and that the communication has been over email. I'd assume a first time dealer would email the department but I'm not entirely sure.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Dajoo on March 13, 2014, 04:11:00 PM
Quote from: keitoghostie on March 13, 2014, 03:54:47 PM
I don't know the logistics of it tbh but it seems like he registered at-con last year and that the communication has been over email. I'd assume a first time dealer would email the department but I'm not entirely sure.

We do the lions share of our registration at the end of the previous year. This way Dealers can pick out their booths while they still have Fanime on their minds.

We get quite a few new Dealers that apply by emailing us at Dealers at Fanime dot com.

I make it my personal goal to anwer all requests within 48 hours. ;)
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 14, 2014, 11:38:37 AM
At least Dealer's are content with their communication....now it's just the attendee's who are suffering. We're a week away from the two-month mark for Fanime, and still nothing except a possibly empty promise of "soon." I know web design is a pain, I know it's tedious, and stuff happens. The head of the web team said that the website, when it is launched, will have a "ton" of information. Still, I don't see how they couldn't just launch the base of the site first, and add information as it becomes available, instead of doing everything all at once and having something like this happen.

I'm so frustrated with Fanime this year, and their absolute lack of professionalism, that it's seriously effecting my plans for next year. AX has their stuff together, I'm ditching Fanime for them next year if this fiasco continues any longer. Not only is Fanime not communicating a thing (seriously, we had to complain on the forums for even a tiny bit of information??), but they obviously don't even care. No courtesy messages on fb such as, "We are sorry for the delay, we're working our hardest to get the site/information up as soon as possible, thank you for your patience," or anything related at all. People making fb comments asking for information as well aren't even being responded to. AA people especially are anxious about whether or not they should start working on product, because they don't know if they'll have a table!

(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi62.tinypic.com%2F2a50hnq.png&hash=4d78c05edb61403cc2ba69a3a312e335ba6de591)

People are literally begging for any little bit of information. But they'll just have to remain anxious and worried because of Fanime's refusal to communicate. (FYI Fanime, as someone who works in communication, responding to people's worries doesn't mean you have to have the information they're looking for. If the information isn't ready yet, you at least respond to them, let them know as much, and attempt to put them at ease. You do not straight up ignore them).

Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: SpiritOfKairi on March 14, 2014, 12:23:33 PM
Quote from: InsaneChan on March 14, 2014, 11:38:37 AM
At least Dealer's are content with their communication....now it's just the attendee's who are suffering. We're a week away from the two-month mark for Fanime, and still nothing except a possibly empty promise of "soon." I know web design is a pain, I know it's tedious, and stuff happens. The head of the web team said that the website, when it is launched, will have a "ton" of information. Still, I don't see how they couldn't just launch the base of the site first, and add information as it becomes available, instead of doing everything all at once and having something like this happen.

I'm so frustrated with Fanime this year, and their absolute lack of professionalism, that it's seriously effecting my plans for next year. AX has their stuff together, I'm ditching Fanime for them next year if this fiasco continues any longer. Not only is Fanime not communicating a thing (seriously, we had to complain on the forums for even a tiny bit of information??), but they obviously don't even care. No courtesy messages on fb such as, "We are sorry for the delay, we're working our hardest to get the site/information up as soon as possible, thank you for your patience," or anything related at all. People making fb comments asking for information as well aren't even being responded to. AA people especially are anxious about whether or not they should start working on product, because they don't know if they'll have a table!

(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi62.tinypic.com%2F2a50hnq.png&hash=4d78c05edb61403cc2ba69a3a312e335ba6de591)

People are literally begging for any little bit of information. But they'll just have to remain anxious and worried because of Fanime's refusal to communicate. (FYI Fanime, as someone who works in communication, responding to people's worries doesn't mean you have to have the information they're looking for. If the information isn't ready yet, you at least respond to them, let them know as much, and attempt to put them at ease. You do not straight up ignore them).

Agreed here.  It's good that at least one party is getting some information, but that still leaves everyone else hanging.  The last we got from the twitter feed was a message on Sunday March 9th saying the full website launch was "really soon".  Since then, we have gotten a few more links on the placeholder site, but nothing else.  There is no information concerning events for new attendees, nothing about AA, etc.  This is getting pretty ridiculous.  The convention is right around the corner, and yet almost nothing has been put forth, either information or general statement-wise.  I've said this before - I know Fanime tends to do things at kind of the last minute, but when you have an event that brings in about 20,000 people, a lack of communication and information this large really isn't good.  I love Fanime and want to see it continue, but I'm really not impressed with how things have gone so far for this year's con.  I'm trying to keep optimistic that we'll see a turnaround, but that's becoming harder to do.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 14, 2014, 04:49:40 PM
Sure would be nice if they would let AA people sign up for tables on the last day of the con, like dealers...
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: megamanjoe415 on March 14, 2014, 05:25:13 PM
I will never understand why this even had to be, I agree with everyone above. No other con does this, and all the cons I have been to, AnimeFx, AOD, KrakenCon, SanAnime, AX, etc. All post up their site at least 6 months in advanced.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: echoshadow on March 14, 2014, 06:08:05 PM
Hopefully once the web site goes up then can start working on the schedule. Maybe this time we can have more than 3 days notice before the start of the con.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 17, 2014, 02:16:39 AM
Quote from: echoshadow on March 14, 2014, 06:08:05 PM
Hopefully once the web site goes up then can start working on the schedule. Maybe this time we can have more than 3 days notice before the start of the con.

I don't really mind the schedule being last minute, as long as it's ready at least before Thursday of the con. Also, as long as they print paper schedules, I'll be good to go. Usually I spend Thursday night planning which panels/events/etc to attend anyways.

But now it's been over a week since the declaration that the site launch would be "soon." After 8 days, "soon" is becoming less relative. 9 weeks until the con and still no website? If it isn't up in the next 3 days, I'm officially calling it quits. I'm done. This is ridiculous. This is unfair to us. This is unfair to the guests of honor. No one giving the con as much money as I do (and have for the past 10 years), as everyone does, deserves this. AX has a site, they have guests announced, they don't make up lame excuses, they don't blame their lack of quality guests on the FANS, they have everything going for them. I'm attending AX from now on.

I am a person who likes to plan, and I hate the anxiety Fanime has inflicted upon everyone waiting for info for AA, the site, everything.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Gaki on March 17, 2014, 03:17:50 AM
Quote from: InsaneChan on March 17, 2014, 02:16:39 AM
I don't really mind the schedule being last minute, as long as it's ready at least before Thursday of the con. Also, as long as they print paper schedules, I'll be good to go. Usually I spend Thursday night planning which panels/events/etc to attend anyways.

This would be a good way to spend the time waiting in line for our badges. Day 0 has pretty much evolved to the point where I'm pretty much resigning myself to staying in line for the entire day and doing nothing interesting like the swap meet or anything else open that day. Might as well bring chairs and enough food to last an apocalypse so I'm not one of the people who faint or can be in a position to help the people who faint while dealing with this BS.


Quote from: InsaneChan on March 17, 2014, 02:16:39 AMBut now it's been over a week since the declaration that the site launch would be "soon." After 8 days, "soon" is becoming less relative. 9 weeks until the con and still no website? If it isn't up in the next 3 days, I'm officially calling it quits. I'm done. This is ridiculous. This is unfair to us. This is unfair to the guests of honor. No one giving the con as much money as I do (and have for the past 10 years), as everyone does, deserves this. AX has a site, they have guests announced, they don't make up lame excuses, they don't blame their lack of quality guests on the FANS, they have everything going for them. I'm attending AX from now on.

I am a person who likes to plan, and I hate the anxiety Fanime has inflicted upon everyone waiting for info for AA, the site, everything.

I'm in total agreement, and this just makes me sad. If the con is supposed to be by fans for fans, then fans would know enough to not put other fans through this hell. Guests should be set, the website should be set, so many other things should already be set up but they're just stagnating. AFAIK we don't even have a Guest of Honor set up yet for 2014. Meanwhile, I'm looking at Saboten, which is only in it's second year of operations, and they've already got a full guest list 5 months before the con even starts.

Pisses me off especially to hear rumors that some of the staffers are only 'staffing' because they're able to attend for free.

This is Fanime. This is one of the biggest cons on the West Coast. It should be setting an example for other cons, but instead it looks like a flat-out embarrassment to be loyal here. This is the 20th anniversary for the con - the last few years better not indicative of this year or I'm with you. This might be the last year I attend Fanime and stick closer to home with AX.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 17, 2014, 11:41:18 AM
Quote from: InsaneChan on March 17, 2014, 02:16:39 AM
I am a person who likes to plan, and I hate the anxiety Fanime has inflicted upon everyone waiting for info for AA, the site, everything.

I am too, which is why I went so far as to build my own calendar for FanimeCon. Panels and Cosplay Gathering info is up on the forums before anything else so I can build around that, but not having access to the video programming schedule is what really keeps me from planning everything out in advance.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 17, 2014, 08:54:16 PM
Quote from: Gaki
I'm in total agreement, and this just makes me sad. If the con is supposed to be by fans for fans, then fans would know enough to not put other fans through this hell. Guests should be set, the website should be set, so many other things should already be set up but they're just stagnating. AFAIK we don't even have a Guest of Honor set up yet for 2014. Meanwhile, I'm looking at Saboten, which is only in it's second year of operations, and they've already got a full guest list 5 months before the con even starts.

Pisses me off especially to hear rumors that some of the staffers are only 'staffing' because they're able to attend for free.

This is Fanime. This is one of the biggest cons on the West Coast. It should be setting an example for other cons, but instead it looks like a flat-out embarrassment to be loyal here. This is the 20th anniversary for the con - the last few years better not indicative of this year or I'm with you. This might be the last year I attend Fanime and stick closer to home with AX.

I'm not surprised that's the case, and to be honest it doesn't bother me too much, as long as they do a decent job. But if not, then they don't deserve their positions, and Fanime's chair and department heads needs to step-in. Although, that's a completely different issue completely.

This whole situation is just a joke, honestly. I feel like I can't vent enough about how let-down I feel over this whole thing! Fanime has failed so far this year, and the only thing I can hope for is a decent con in two months (since they already have my entire group's reg money). But, next year, I'm already excited over all the extra money I'll have for AX instead. We'll see though.

Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: heeroyuy135 on March 18, 2014, 10:41:02 AM
Let me ask you all a question: is the days of "by fans, for fans" dead?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 18, 2014, 11:37:11 AM
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on March 18, 2014, 10:41:02 AM
Let me ask you all a question: is the days of "by fans, for fans" dead?

Well the con still hasn't incorporated (to my knowledge) like other large cons so it's not like anybody is getting paid (other than the lawyer.)

Some areas of the con feel far more "by fans, for fans" than others, Cosplay gatherings and the panels are what comes to mind. The people who take the time to organize and host an event like that are people I would call dedicated fans. Contrast that with Artist Alley this year, which seems to have shifted to a semi-pro format.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 18, 2014, 12:48:27 PM
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on March 18, 2014, 10:41:02 AM
Let me ask you all a question: is the days of "by fans, for fans" dead?

Lately, there has just been a lot of issues with the staff and no one really knows what, but this tardiness is an indication of a serious problem. It's very frustrating.

One aspect of the con that never ceases to amaze me though is the game room. I don't know who's in charge of it, but they really do think of everything in there! 
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: megamanjoe415 on March 20, 2014, 08:46:58 AM
Game room every year gets better and better. Wish they updated their arcade machines to the latest versions though...

Which other con in northern cali, allows a 24hr game room/video rooms??

Non that I know of...

Fanime: step up your game with this website and hurry, its almost less than 2 months away and its scary to hear that people may not come to fanime next year... I want to come back next year and many years after as a veteran of past fanimes...


Anime_Files
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 20, 2014, 11:16:26 AM
I wish the game room could get some of the weird and obscure games from the arcade in SF's Japantown. I want to play the table flipping game again  :'(
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on March 20, 2014, 09:49:08 PM
That is ridiculous. You think AA staff would be as on-top of things as Dealer's Hall staff. But I guess that isn't the case, now is it?

But it's good to see that Dealer's Hall staff is doing good. Least not all of Fanime is completely falling apart, I guess. And I wish I could ditch Fanime next year for AX as well, but, AX is further away from me than Fanime, so it'd be more difficult to go there than to Fanime, but if Fanime slacks even more next year, I just might consider the switch...... I have been to AX once before a couple years back and the only downside was that some areas were overcrowded and the hotel distance, but that can't be helped, after all, and it's not really under AX staff's control. I actually didn't get a badge the year I went, and I still had a blast.

Yup. Seriously considering switching next year if this continues or gets worse.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: heeroyuy135 on March 20, 2014, 10:51:45 PM
Quote from: Angelx624 on March 20, 2014, 09:49:08 PM
the only downside was that some areas were overcrowded and the hotel distance, but that can't be helped, after all, and it's not really under AX staff's control
Um, actually...it is, but it's a long story...

The huge issue that I have with Fanime versus AX that within everything Fanime has stayed relatively cheap. Two nights at the Marriott equals one night at the Westin or the JW Marriott. There's a number of cheap eateries within a couple of blocks at Fanime, but at AX the cheapest food is all the way in the downtown area and unless you want to shell out money for "gourmet" food trucks or whatever is at LA Live, expect some heavy walking just to find something decent.

If you me want to elaborate more, you know where to find me.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on March 21, 2014, 10:08:36 PM
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on March 20, 2014, 10:51:45 PM
Quote from: Angelx624 on March 20, 2014, 09:49:08 PM
the only downside was that some areas were overcrowded and the hotel distance, but that can't be helped, after all, and it's not really under AX staff's control
Um, actually...it is, but it's a long story...

The huge issue that I have with Fanime versus AX that within everything Fanime has stayed relatively cheap. Two nights at the Marriott equals one night at the Westin or the JW Marriott. There's a number of cheap eateries within a couple of blocks at Fanime, but at AX the cheapest food is all the way in the downtown area and unless you want to shell out money for "gourmet" food trucks or whatever is at LA Live, expect some heavy walking just to find something decent.

If you me want to elaborate more, you know where to find me.
Ya, good point. I guess since I was with a group most of the time, I didn't quite have to venture out for food.

Well, like I said, it really depends on this year's Fanime and how the staff handle things at the beginning of next year. Heck, I kinda wish I could just skip this year and save for PMC, but I already submitted panels and such.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: eemychann on March 23, 2014, 01:29:09 PM
It's still not possible for industry people to even attempt to register to attend the convention.

Hope you weren't expecting any panels?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: pinknekophiliac on March 23, 2014, 02:51:18 PM
The game room is one of the 3 main reasons I go to fanime... but I will say that for the past 3 years or so I've been missing my favorite games to play at fanime... don't know if that's just because no one's bringing them or maybe they're not as popular with others as they are with me... but I used to love playing Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Soul Calibur in the game room till the break of dawn but as I said, for the past 3 years I've not seen any of them! :(. Whyyyy? I saw Soul Calibur 2 last year and that was it. Why no more Rock Band or Guitar Hero?

Just a suggestion for whoever runs the game room, I and at least those I know would really love to see some Guitar Hero and Rock Band back in the game room :).
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: keitoghostie on March 23, 2014, 02:56:11 PM
If you make a thread in this section of the forum (link (http://forums.fanime.com/index.php/board,31.0.html)), representatives from gaming are generally able to acknowledge your requests!
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CatToy on March 23, 2014, 06:40:53 PM
Quote from: eemychann on March 23, 2014, 01:29:09 PM
It's still not possible for industry people to even attempt to register to attend the convention.

Hope you weren't expecting any panels?

They're expecting fans to run panels. They're offering comp badges if you do enough of them.

ByFansForFans - because professionals won't put up with this nonsense.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 23, 2014, 07:35:28 PM
I am so done with Fanime. Unless they have an amazing guest list,  I am just attending for the dealer's hall at this point. 8 weeks until the con and no site, and 2 weeks since they promised us the site would be up "soon". I wish I could file an official complaint in this type of situation, because people are angry and people are demanding answers that they're not getting, while Fanime is holding onto their hard-earned money. 

Fanime, shame on you. This will be my final year. Good riddance.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: sjamison1427 on March 24, 2014, 12:33:00 AM
I feel that the site layout this year is definitely the worst that it has ever been. It's far too minimal and makes site navigation somewhat frustrating. I really enjoyed old site layouts where there were links to information about previous cons, detailed information on what Fanime has to offer, in addition to easy to navigate links.

I feel as though Fanime would be better off reverting to its old webpage layout for the time being, at least until they fully complete the new layout to their satisfaction.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on March 24, 2014, 03:19:16 AM
At this point, I'm just going for gatherings and the two cosplay groups I'm in.

As well as hopefully running my panels, and maybe doing the Masquerade, if we can recruit the people we still need.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on March 24, 2014, 08:19:38 AM
I've said this before and many others have as well but this is a major disappointment. It's disgraceful and VERY rude. I have never seen a convention of this size be run so poorly. This is the 20th anniversary, too. Other conventions that have heard of these issues must be shocked and possibly laughing.

If one reason stuff isn't getting done is because of staff shortage then COMMUNICATE that. There are lots of people here willing to work the con and they have expressed that.


It's been weeks since the website was supposed to be up "very soon." Here we are now with nothing...STILL!


Only reason I'm coming is to see my partner now. End of story.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: MeloettaMeridian on March 24, 2014, 12:36:06 PM
I've tried to avoid replying to threads like these because I don't like feeling bitter, but I think it's time for me to say that I, too, am extremely disappointed that the website hasn't gone up yet and that the staff has generally been very disorganized. It's less than two months until the con! Very much unacceptable.

I'm definitely going to the con this year - already bought my badge, might as well enjoy myself as much as I possibly can. But like many others, I'm heavily considering not going to Fanime starting next year.

Am I the only one with a sneaking suspicion that Fanime 2014 is going to be cancelled at the last minute? Maybe that's taking it a step too far... I like to think that such a thing is impossible considering how large the con is, but with the staff being so disorganized this year in particular, I can't rule the possibility out...
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
I'm gonna be blunt and agree with what others have said...

This.  Is.  Ridiculous.

Particularly in light of other conventions (AX, Summer SacAnime, etc.) already having their websites active and lists of guests who will be present.  Fanime?  Doesn't have jack.  All the news and attention appears to be here on the Forums.  The Facebook page hasn't had any activity since hotel reservations, Twitter is kinda quiet, the website is nigh-on nonexistent, and the staff is jerking us around again on when we can expect anything.

Seriously?  Step.  Up.  Your.  Game.  You are going to lose a lot of support if you keep this nonsense up.  And this comes from someone who normally doesn't get frustrated like this.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: thepsynergist on March 24, 2014, 01:40:05 PM
Quote from: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
I'm gonna be blunt and agree with what others have said...

This.  Is.  Ridiculous.

Particularly in light of other conventions (AX, Summer SacAnime, etc.) already having their websites active and lists of guests who will be present.  Fanime?  Doesn't have jack.  All the news and attention appears to be here on the Forums.  The Facebook page hasn't had any activity since hotel reservations, Twitter is kinda quiet, the website is nigh-on nonexistent, and the staff is jerking us around again on when we can expect anything.

Seriously?  Step.  Up.  Your.  Game.  You are going to lose a lot of support if you keep this nonsense up.  And this comes from someone who normally doesn't get frustrated like this.
Has anyone else noticed that the swimsuit girl on the website looks similar to the "troll face" meme?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: keitoghostie on March 24, 2014, 01:48:05 PM
Quote from: eemychann on March 23, 2014, 01:29:09 PM
It's still not possible for industry people to even attempt to register to attend the convention.

What's weird is that professional registration is up (http://apps.fanime.com/2014/proreg/) but there's nothing about it anywhere on the splash page...
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on March 24, 2014, 02:29:32 PM
Quote from: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
I'm gonna be blunt and agree with what others have said...

This.  Is.  Ridiculous.

Particularly in light of other conventions (AX, Summer SacAnime, etc.) already having their websites active and lists of guests who will be present.  Fanime?  Doesn't have jack.  All the news and attention appears to be here on the Forums.  The Facebook page hasn't had any activity since hotel reservations, Twitter is kinda quiet, the website is nigh-on nonexistent, and the staff is jerking us around again on when we can expect anything.

Seriously?  Step.  Up.  Your.  Game.  You are going to lose a lot of support if you keep this nonsense up.  And this comes from someone who normally doesn't get frustrated like this.

I'm starting to think that they don't care about the fans at all.  :'( This whole situation is just awful. I've spent hundreds on plane tickets alone to come to this con. Sending e-mails, tweets, facebook messages doesn't do anything. It is scary to even fathom but it feels like Fanime may not even happen now.

At this point it would just be a big relief for someone from the con to say "Deeply sorry for the issues. We still exist and it's still going to happen."
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: limDsage on March 24, 2014, 03:14:10 PM
My only concern at this point is still trying to figure out the guests and events that will take place on Fanime. With the lack of vital information, it seems like the only things I will be looking forward to would be a few gatherings I will be attending and the game room; mainly seeing if they will be hosting a fighting game tournament.

Hopefully we all get the info that we need, but not like on the last minute. I know it sucks for the people who are traveling from out of town and it would really be convenient for the rest so that they can organize their days accordingly.

J-Expo's first year last year was really on point: their website was constantly updated with guest, panels, and event info up until the day of the event. Here's to wishful thinking that Fanime gets it together next year. 
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: smores on March 24, 2014, 04:04:03 PM
M'kay... this is going to be long.

I've been an attendee of Fanime (and Fanime exclusively until last year!) for 8 years. It's my home con. I love it. But I'll admit, the last 2 years with the registration problems, and then the slew of technical problems, staff problems, scheduling problems, etc that happened last year, I've come into this year wary about Fanime.

This website thing is pretty much cementing those wary feelings. Fanime staff, those responsible for the website, what is WRONG with you? The only response we've received thus far is a jesting "The fire under our butts just keeps us warm" complete with smiley winking face. Cute. I'm sorry, as people who are paying money to attend this con, we DESERVE a response and an explanation as to what the holdup is with the site. I know for a fact that the con won't be cancelled this year, but the fact that your lack of communication has driven people to feel concerned that that could happen is RIDICULOUS. I don't care if you're "By Fans For Fans", consist entirely of volunteers or whatever else. The fact of the matter is, you haven't sent out a single representative to explain what is going on with the website, when it'll be up, or even to reassure us that we're being listened to.

Do you realize that after last year's con, a nonexistent website 2 months prior to the con (and now more than 2 weeks after it was promised as coming "Very soon") is extremely unprofessional and is simply making all of us feel like the changes you promised after last year's giant mess aren't going to happen?  You're asking people to pay you unrefundable sums of money to attend a con you haven't told us ANYTHING about except the dates it'll occur on and where it'll be held. This is unacceptable.

And no, if you put up the site today or tomorrow, that isn't enough. We need a reason as to why we're being ignored. "By Fans, For Fans" doesn't mean anything if the voices of multitudes of fans saying the same thing is completely ignored and garners no response.

In this day and age, nothing excuses not having a website. Most cons have a website all year long, even if there's no current information referring to the upcoming con if it's too far in the future. Sakura-Con is 1 month away and already has 22 guests listed and an entire website that has been running for months and months in advance. AX's never went down. Sac-Anime's site is ready. There is no excuse for this, but we deserve a response.

I haven't bought my badge this year. I'm considering making someone's day and cancelling my hotel deposit and giving up on this con completely.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Purelovely on March 24, 2014, 04:38:02 PM
Quote from: smores on March 24, 2014, 04:04:03 PM
M'kay... this is going to be long.

I've been an attendee of Fanime (and Fanime exclusively until last year!) for 8 years. It's my home con. I love it. But I'll admit, the last 2 years with the registration problems, and then the slew of technical problems, staff problems, scheduling problems, etc that happened last year, I've come into this year wary about Fanime.

This website thing is pretty much cementing those wary feelings. Fanime staff, those responsible for the website, what is WRONG with you? The only response we've received thus far is a jesting "The fire under our butts just keeps us warm" complete with smiley winking face. Cute. I'm sorry, as people who are paying money to attend this con, we DESERVE a response and an explanation as to what the holdup is with the site. I know for a fact that the con won't be cancelled this year, but the fact that your lack of communication has driven people to feel concerned that that could happen is RIDICULOUS. I don't care if you're "By Fans For Fans", consist entirely of volunteers or whatever else. The fact of the matter is, you haven't sent out a single representative to explain what is going on with the website, when it'll be up, or even to reassure us that we're being listened to.

Do you realize that after last year's con, a nonexistent website 2 months prior to the con (and now more than 2 weeks after it was promised as coming "Very soon") is extremely unprofessional and is simply making all of us feel like the changes you promised after last year's giant mess aren't going to happen?  You're asking people to pay you unrefundable sums of money to attend a con you haven't told us ANYTHING about except the dates it'll occur on and where it'll be held. This is unacceptable.

And no, if you put up the site today or tomorrow, that isn't enough. We need a reason as to why we're being ignored. "By Fans, For Fans" doesn't mean anything if the voices of multitudes of fans saying the same thing is completely ignored and garners no response.

In this day and age, nothing excuses not having a website. Most cons have a website all year long, even if there's no current information referring to the upcoming con if it's too far in the future. Sakura-Con is 1 month away and already has 22 guests listed and an entire website that has been running for months and months in advance. AX's never went down. Sac-Anime's site is ready. There is no excuse for this, but we deserve a response.

I haven't bought my badge this year. I'm considering making someone's day and cancelling my hotel deposit and giving up on this con completely.

::standing ovation::
Wonderfully said. This is exactly how I feel but I've been too irritated to be able to phrase it this well.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 04:50:20 PM
I think what adds insult to injury here is Clockwork Alchemy's website is up and functional.  They have their announcements up, they have a guest announced (with more to come)...everything we want on Fanime's website.

So, Fanime...what's your excuse?
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: SquishyK on March 24, 2014, 05:13:46 PM
Quote from: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
The Facebook page hasn't had any activity since hotel reservations, Twitter is kinda quiet, the website is nigh-on nonexistent,

Actually the Facebook page has updated on March 18th, 15th, 9th, and 1st. Most necessary applications for events are available or appear to be on the way. In fact the only NEW information pertinent to fanime 2014 that has not been posted yet is what guests to expect. Anything else can be extrapolated based on last year's fanime if you attended that.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 06:04:55 PM
Quote from: pitin on March 24, 2014, 05:13:46 PM
Quote from: CeruleanRogue on March 24, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
The Facebook page hasn't had any activity since hotel reservations, Twitter is kinda quiet, the website is nigh-on nonexistent,

Actually the Facebook page has updated on March 18th, 15th, 9th, and 1st. Most necessary applications for events are available or appear to be on the way. In fact the only NEW information pertinent to fanime 2014 that has not been posted yet is what guests to expect. Anything else can be extrapolated based on last year's fanime if you attended that.

I will grant you that.  Facebook is really wonky for me with what content it shows, so Fanime's updates don't always appear on my feed.  But I went back and saw them on their page.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: InsaneChan on March 24, 2014, 06:32:41 PM
If you check the facebook, most comments are people wondering about the website. I wouldn't really count the recent fb updates as anything really important, so you can tell they're doing it as a means to appease us. Obviously, that's not happening. At this point, it is definitely a concern that this con is even happening.

Fanime, just talk to us. COMMUNICATE. Is that so much to ask?

On a side note, I hope that if there are guests of honor being spoken to, they're receiving better communication and are less frustrated than we are. If they have a bad experience, they won't return to other cons to meet fans and that would be extremely unfair.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: DrScorpio on March 24, 2014, 08:35:21 PM
The lack response is just as bad as the barren website. The staff must be reading these posts. They just must be in a position where they either are not allowed to respond, have no meaningful response and/or are in such a bad state of disorganization no one knows whats going on.

I still havent seen any responses to 2013's concerns much less 2014. The Fanime facebook still doesnt allow visitors to post comments in the main area (probably since the entire page would just be filled with complaints. I am still bothered that they disabled that to stop attendees from voicing complaints. I cant stand the fact that thee is no response from staff. By response I mean a meaningful one that addresses issues...like the horror of Fanime 2013.

I used to love Fanime and would suffer the 6+ hour drive to attend this con, but last year was the first year where I didnt think the con was worth the drive. I will be attending this year, but it may very well be my last Fanime. Several of my friends already gave up on Fanime and will not be attending.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: Angelx624 on March 24, 2014, 09:32:04 PM
I'm truly stressing out myself because Fanime staff refuse to communicate with us, to be honest. Heck, I haven't even heard about my panels yet, but the last couple years I remember waiting a little while before getting a response, so I'm not too worried about them.

I am worried about the main events though. Is there still gonna be a Music Fest? Are we gonna have ANY guests this year?? I know Masquerade's still happening, from what I've seen here on the forums. Please, Fanime, tell us SOMETHING. Don't keep us in the dark, anymore. You want to keep your slogan of "By Fans, For Fans"? Then show it. Prove to us that you still live up to that slogan. Cause you sure haven't been doing that this year.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: kokosatou on March 24, 2014, 10:16:31 PM
It's already 8 weeks before Fanime, and I'm quite disappointed with the rate of how updates are going. In the 4 years of my time going to Fanime, this is by far the latest it's ever gotten. The fact that nothing is being said about this is sickening and lowers my expectations in this being a better Fanime than last year. At the very least, there should be an announcement of one of the guests of honor showing up this year. There are even smaller cons with less of a budget who can get their guest list up within a matter of months after the convention ends. It's not even post-con, and already there are many complaints. As the second largest anime convention in California, this just ruins its reputation. It's at the point where this will regrettably be the last Fanime I'll be attending. All we ask for are consistent announcements.
Title: Re: Fanime Con 2014 Website
Post by: ewu on March 25, 2014, 12:12:24 AM
Hello all,

Please see the new post here:
http://forums.fanime.com/index.php/topic,19157.0.html

Thanks,
Eric