Login Identifier

From Zanecorpwiki

Classically, app developers choose between either a self-assigned "username" or the use of an email address as login identifier. Adrian usabilitythoughts.com makes a strong case for using email. I agree with his points and, on net, I too prefer using email addresses as the login identifier(s) for an account.

The big win with email addresses is the fact that they are owned/controlled things. You can recognize re-registrations and take appropriate action. Users know their email address is free (or that they are the victims of identity theft). As a bonus, users are less likely to forget their email address.

In cases where you don't need to establish a "public name" (== nickname), you can get by with one less form on the field (assuming you'd need to get the email address in any case). However, in most cases you'll need to get a nickname as well. You just don't use the nickname to login. On a related note, you'll need to ask Should Nicknames be Unique?