User Nickname or Display Name Option

[GreyWolfVT]

Just got this idea running in my head so I am going to post it here. Upon creating an account here I used my real name but most folks I see use some sort of nickname or "what not" and I was wondering if it would be at all possible or probable to have a function in User Control Panel. Maybe I missed this in there but to have a different Display name than your actual account might already be? But not effect how PM's or anything like that tie into it? The way it shows in the forums could still be as it is just with a "nickname/display name" listed under your account name the name would be in quotes or () brackets.

[rredmond]

I believe you have to request a name change from the Admin - ToniXX.

I like the nickname to maintain my anonymity.

--Ron--

[ToniXX]

I think there is a way I can add an extra, optional field where someone can put their real name, and it will show up to the left of their posts, under location, number of posts, etc.

<---- over here.

Not a bad idea (if I'm understanding correctly) and I'll look into it.

[Alethan]

I think there is a way I can add an extra, optional field where someone can put their real name, and it will show up to the left of their posts, under location, number of posts, etc.

<---- over here.

Not a bad idea (if I'm understanding correctly) and I'll look into it.

I think he wants just the opposite, ToniXX. He used his real name for his User ID and he wants to make a nickname display in its stead.

[GreyWolfVT]

I think there is a way I can add an extra, optional field where someone can put their real name, and it will show up to the left of their posts, under location, number of posts, etc.

<---- over here.

Not a bad idea (if I'm understanding correctly) and I'll look into it.

Either way works actually I was just suggesting/asking really. Personally I'd like my account name to be more of a nickname/whatever and display at least just my first name under/near or where ever it is possible as ToniXX is saying here.

[ToniXX]

Oh then you'd have to change your account name.

[GreyWolfVT]

Yeah but your way works too ToniXX I think some folks might still use it with how you said you can do things ^ there in a reply. If you do find that you can do what you said above I'll be asking you for a account name change then add my first name to the other option if I make sense at all.

[Alethan]

Yeah but your way works too ToniXX I think some folks might still use it with how you said you can do things ^ there in a reply. If you do find that you can do what you said above I'll be asking you for a account name change then add my first name to the other option if I make sense at all.

If you do not want your current User ID of "ednichols" to display, then the idea ToniXX suggested would not work. His suggestion would keep your User ID as is, but allow you to also populate an additional field below your Avatar that displays your real name.

If you do not want your current User ID of "ednichols" to display, then you will need to have ToniXX change your User ID manually.

[GreyWolfVT]

I think I am being slightly misunderstood still. I like ToniXX idea but don't like my full real name as a user account name. I would not have an issue with having my Name displayed below an account name if I have the option of putting just first name or last not required. Does that make more sense?

[Alethan]

I think I am being slightly misunderstood still. I like ToniXX idea but don't like my full real name as a user account name. I would not have an issue with having my Name displayed below an account name if I have the option of putting just first name or last not required. Does that make more sense?

I fully comprehend what you are saying. If you do not want your current User ID of "ednichols" to display, then the idea ToniXX suggested would not correct that issue. You'll need to get with him to manually change your User ID to something else.

[GreyWolfVT]

ok I get that but my suggestion I think is still a good idea.

[GreyWolfVT]

Well that was a fun learning experience with the account name change.

[ToniXX]

Glad I could help, GreyWolfVT
I've added a profile field for your real name. If you leave it blank, it won't show anything, so you don't have to use it. But if you put something there, it will show it under 'location' on all of your posts. See mine to the left:
<---
To change this:

• go to the User Control Panel (upper right of most any page)
• Click 'profile' along the left.
• Look at the last entry field on that page.
• Put your name there if you want. Or put 'Turd Ferguson'.

[ToniXX]

Please note that in no way am I saying you have to use it. But, this is one of the only forums I interact on where a lot of people know my real name, and I'm ok with that as most of you seem to be cool peeps! I also think real names help foster a great sense of community.

Carry on and roll the (digital) dice!

[GreyWolfVT]

Lets see how this looks

Hmm not displaying did I miss something

[Zhym]

Ooh, I like this addition.

[Alethan]

Lets see how this looks

Hmm not displaying did I miss something

Looks like it is working fine, Ed.

[dmw71]

This just a suggestion, but the 'Real Name' field feels like it should be at or near the top; above or just below the 'Date Joined' field.

Absolutely no big deal where it is... just something that jumped out at me.

Thanks!
- Dave

[ToniXX]

Glad I could help, GreyWolfVT
I've added a profile field for your real name. If you leave it blank, it won't show anything, so you don't have to use it. But if you put something there, it will show it under 'location' on all of your posts. See mine to the left:
<---
To change this:

• go to the User Control Panel (upper right of most any page)
• Click 'profile' along the left.
• Look at the last entry field on that page.
• Put your name there if you want. Or put 'Turd Ferguson'.

To those who have done this:
Are you seeing your name (and the names of others) in their posts? Most users in this thread have done it, but one user isn't seeing the names. Thanks for the input.

Dave: I can't control the position of the field. I agree with you, though!

[GreyWolfVT]

Hey yeah you fixed it