What about a "suite"-library?

Convergence! Now we just have to get the author's to start putting their skins together in a convergence file.

Hum... not the same.
In my mind, in a "suite" section, all the skins of a suite would be available separatly for download. Personnaly I find convergeance of little interest because I only use Windowblinds and DesktopX. I really don't want to download a suite of 6 or 7 apps for nothing. :/

I reall wish Convergence had the option to save a theme file as references to skins rather than always having to contain the skins.

This way I could have theme files that are similar (say one theme that is identital to another theme except that it may have a different WB skins) without worrying about the bloat.

You would not also have to worry about getting permissions from the artistis since the skins aren't actually included.

It would also be cool for people like me who don't have any real skill with graphics to construct and share/post theme files. Sort of like recommending to someone that WB skin X looks really nice with Wallpaper Y and NextStart skin Z. But all skin references encapsulated in a theme file.

For instance I posted a screenshot of my desktop the other day. It's composed of a bunch of different skins none of which orginated from a single theme. It would be nice to put together a theme file that contained just the references to those skins and then share it with the people who like it.

If they have the skins already on their harddrive then great, they would automatically be applied when the theme is used. Alternatively the user can click on a link to download the theme to their harddrive.

I guess this is sort of like Convergence combined with the pending Wincustomize program.

Sorry for rambling, but one can always dream...

A library of suites though is a neat idea. You wouldn't need a lot of additional space, just a section with entries pointing to the various skins on this site. Have each suite under its common name, one screenshot of the suite, and a listing of the various skins available.
er...or something like that.

That's a pretty good idea actually Chris.

I agree. Great idea, Chris!

is convergence part of the object desktop network? I was thinking of puchasing the year subscription but dont know if there is a difference...

Tarkus and Frogboy, glad someone likes the concept. I call it "FrankenThemes" Y'know,
Take a dangeruss WB skin, a TreeTog NexStart skin, a Nuvem Wallpaper, a c242 DesktopX theme and then you get "It's Alive!".

The problem with Convergence (well it's not really a problem) is that while it's really useful, is that it doesn't foster a lot of "community creativity".

1. A .skin file is posted that represents an entire theme (say Polymer or Heavy Equipment). This theme (since it's "sanctioned" by whoever originally built it, say the Skindicate or Essorant) is allowed to be publicly posted.

2. People create their own personal themes as an aggregation of skins and themes from various authors but they can't post them unless the can cobble all the permissions. Even if they do the resultant files are so big that you have to really really really want to upload it.

Going the "FrankenTheme" route with just skin references makes the files small and provides mere mortals/nonskinner's who are "desktop" enthusiasts with an outlet to be a little creative and particpate more in the community.

In response to screenshots, in the past I've had to create long emails that are "theme recipies" that list the applications, where they can be found on the net, and the URLs to the skins.
Then I end up emailing the message to everybody who emailed me about the screenshot. Of course, not too many people bother to email me a thank you after fulfilling they're request

Damn, this is a long reply and I'm starting to repeat myself so I think I'll stop now.