Jakob Nielson’s latest Alertbox is the longest-read enewsletter in my list. In the latest Alertbox, he points out “designers can get so caught up in their own theories about how users ought to behave that they forget to test for cases in which people behave differently” Could it be that the mechanics of setting up multivariate testing neutralizes this “worry”? Should variable definition be more of a part of the web design process?
Franchises need to toot their own horns. A lot. The press release engine needs fuel. And a plethora of magazines with glossy covers are ready and waiting to stroke their collective egos in front of entrepreneurs craving an escape from the 9 to 5. But with the possible exception of Entrepreneur magazine, most would do well to ignore these publications completely and do their own research.
Having a focused, promise-keeping landing page is a concept that experienced Pay Per Click advertisers know well. Often learning this truism happens the hard way – after spending thousands of wasted dollars. One of the most important design lessons that I’ve learned when it comes to any sort of web page is this: The Landing…
In your web project, do you have parts that dead-end, with little chance of making you the best in your industry? Are there areas you should focus on in hopes of reaching the other side of the dip, joining the elite players of your business? Are you ready to sort those out, focus on the ones that matter and discard the rest?
If you’re presenting at a conference and using a powerpoint deck or some illustrations, don’t post a URL for your stuff to be downloaded. This is a blind method that will not provide you with valuable information about the people who came to retrieve it.
To anyone at the show right now reading over this….. thanks for making a first-timer feel so welcome – it’s been awesome. I’ve met some folks who not only were very approachable but ready and enthusiastic about conversations with a first-timer. I definitely try not to be the “interruption guy” but have managed to at least chat with some who I’ve wanted to meet for a long time and had extended conversation with many who I respect in the industry.