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Web Design Philosophy
While our business encompasses a great deal more than just web site
development, it has become difficult to address any IT issue without evoking a
term that begins with the well-known "e-". Our experience goes back
before the web site craze really got started.
Out of this perspective, we have adopted some principles that we think
are pretty important. We share them with you here, in this brief overview.
Basic Principles
 | The internet is not a market, it is a
channel. Before bypassing traditional distribution channels and going
"directly" to the end customer, it's
important to review exactly what purpose those channels serve. |
| Traditional distribution channels may offer customer service, local name
recognition and customer relationships established over time, to name a
few. The right strategy might be to "e-enable" key channel
partners rather than doing it yourself. |
| Business websites are not about technology, they are about
marketing. Expect at least a 3-1 ratio of marketing effort to technical
effort in the development and operation of a business web site.
"Content" is king. The simplest sites that do the job are the
best ones. Unnecessary use of technology increases development and
maintenance expense, while delivering effects that may distract or age
very quickly. Appealing, useful sites need not employ complex
technology. |
| Know your market and provide them with what they need.
Do this initially and do it every day thereafter. Make sure you have
a sound feedback loop to accomplish this. Depending on your market
and the level of personalization required, the feedback loop can range from
a simple email link to a sophisticated data collection mechanism.
Matching the level of complexity to your need is the key. |
Give people a reason to visit your site. There are a
universe of available choices, depending on your business.
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