New Facebook Timeline....What a Milestone!

Alright, first off, I'm a couple months behind on the newest "timeline" layout for Facebook's business pages, but boy am I impressed with the upgrades.  Unlike most changes that make FB harder to use, like moving all the applications so you can't figure out how to edit anything, the new layout is really slick.

First of all, the Cover Photo is a great way to showcase more about your business.  Most companies would reserve the Profile Photo for a logo, which they should, but there is alot of flexibility with the Cover Photo.  Make your business local with a well-known landmark, show off a product or service, or make it personal with a snapshot of your staff.....the possibilities are endless!  I used this space to include our tagline which was buried in the "About" section.

Cover photos are 850 pixels by 315 pixels.  I used Photoshop to create a custom graphic but heard that there are several free online programs available.  Also I suggest taking some time to format your logo for your Profile Photo, the dimensions are 180 pixels by 180 pixels.  72 dpi is fine for web resolution.

If you love customization like I do, you'll be thrilled about the changes to the tabs.  Unlike the old page tabs, applications like "Photos" and "Events," now appear as thumbnail pictures at the top of your profile.  You can edit these titles and thumbnails for each and rearrange.  Only four show at a time but the drop down arrow makes the rest easily accessible.  My only complaint is that you can't eliminate the "Likes" app from the list but overall the new features are favorable.

The posts are now arranged from side to side.  It looks a little busy at first but you do have some control.  Posts can be "highlighted" which spans the post the full width of the screen.  You can also "pin" a post which will keep it all the top of all posts regardless of date for a full week.

Lastly, the pun in my blog title, the Milestone's feature.  Now this is fun!  Since the new layout is indeed a timeline, you can add back-dated content with descriptions and photos.  You can add when the business was founded, when a new location opened up, and other "milestones" as it were.  I pulled out a couple old photos to add to our timeline which really adds a special touch to our page.  The old cars and buildings are enjoyable to look at just to see the changes that have happened locally.  I think customers will like seeing the history and the strong foundation of the business.

All and all, homerun Facebook!