Circle vs Square avatars
Currently, we have circular avatars for users, projects, and groups. We do not distinguish these entities by their avatar image.
The default user avatar is generated from gravatar, and for projects and groups, we use their first letter in a random light pastel colored background.
Using circular avatar for users and square for content is a pattern that is gaining popularity. Circular avatars are best suited for users since they bring attention to a person's face. There are so many articles to support this claim.
Original proposal
### Proposal- Use circular avatars for users and groups
- Use (8px) rounded square avatars for projects
Proposal
- Use circular avatars for users
- Use rounded square avatars for projects and groups (border radius of 4px for smaller and 8px for larger size avatars)
There is no technical limitation in using rounded square avatars. It is only a matter of changing the border-radius
on the avatar elements. Also, GitLab does not crop the uploaded images which work to our advantage.
Links
- http://blog.benhall.me.uk/2014/05/why-do-round-avatars-look-better-than-square/
- http://uxmovement.com/content/why-circular-profile-pictures-accentuate-faces/
- https://www.theringer.com/2017/6/16/16041060/twitter-redesign-circle-avatars-explained-f60b9c8f34e6
- https://www.designernews.co/stories/14654-ask-dn-circle-vs-square-display-photos
Edited by Jeethu Karthik