The main reason is because I can't spend the time on this site that I used to anymore. It takes a lot of time to write, design, code, etc. everything, every month. So this new design should make things easier on me.
First of all, eWire won't be updated monthly any more. Instead, it'll probably more along the lines of every 3 months or so (quarterly). That will also allow me to come up with more content and hopefully more contributions as well so although the updates will be less frequent, they'll be larger.
I realize that this isn't the optimal solution for a web publication. After all, the very makeup of the web begs for frequent (or even constant) updates. Isn't going back to a model that resembles a print magazine taking a step backwards? Yes. I know I've criticized print-based schedules for websites in the past, but I'm seeing now that with an editorial staff of one and a small time budget, it's the best way to go.
Second, I used to try to come up with different designs for most articles. This made things more interesting for me, but now it's becoming more difficult. So, rather than come up with different designs for each article every "issue", this allows be to come up with a single design to use for the entire site. And not only does this make it easier for me, but it allows for a more consistent navigation and experience throughout the "issue", making things a little simpler for you, as well.
In the long run, not a whole lot is changing you'll still get what you expect from eWire, just less often. (I'm afraid you'll have to go elsewhere for sites with daily updates...)
Please send me any comments, ideas, and/or feedback from the contact page.