Some would say a theme is the image of the forum. Most "professional" forums only have one theme and some people think of it kind of as a trademark. Is it good that some forum softwares allow for multiple themes?
Good question. 😛 I definitely think a forum should have one central theme, although I think it's also a good idea to have other themes, particularly if they're of different types (like a dark theme, or a theme made to look like a former theme the forum had).
Usually I just go with one theme, that way it's easier to update when I need to update variables or something. =P However I can see why multiple themes are wanted, it's just not something I usually like doing. The theme of the site is a trademark so to speak, so I think having one theme is the better way to go, unless the original theme is a dark/light version, in which case I suppose two is fine.
This is a very interesting question. It is good to have one theme because as you said, it is like a trademark and people remember that theme when they think about your forum. However, there are also people who have different tastes and preferences. You don't want to lose members because they dislike your theme. Therefore, the best thing to do is to have multiple themes but make your best theme the default one, the one you want everyone to remember.
I think it's good to have at least 2. One dark and one light theme, to cater for both audiences. It just comes down to preference after all. Some people can't stand light themes because it's not very easy on their eyes. Dark themes may be too dark to see any text, or the colors clash which some members may not like.
Only having one theme is kind of a forum pet peeve I have. Not everyone may like your main one (or they have an issue that prevents them from using it like eyesight) so it's better to have at least 2. Not just two different light themes or two dark either. Honestly I think 3 would be the the best in my opinion. Depending on the forum I might not join if it has just one.
Honestly, giving your members options is always good practice. While some might like the default theme, other's might not. Having the option to switch between multiple themes is always a good thing. That being said, four or five themes max excluding holiday themes. Granted, the holiday themes can be disabled for members after the holiday is over. But, that's just my personal preference most of the time.
