"Let people know right up front what you're all about."
It is not surprising that many CEOs, marketing managers and business owners are frustrated by the ineffectiveness of their websites. Everyone in business understands
the power of the Web and we are all tantalized by its potential. But rarely does that potential get fulfilled.
So whose fault is it? Well there is certainly enough blame to go around: website designers who don't understand business; IT departments that superimpose technical
solutions on marketing problems; and business managers who fail to clearly define and deliver a consistent marketing message. And let's not forget executive egos and
tightwads that insist on do-it-yourself techniques that are 'good enough.'
The prime directive in any webmedia initiative is to deliver the marketing message. It doesn't matter if you're big or small, have a huge budget or are working on a
shoestring. It doesn't matter if your intention is to build name recognition, showcase corporate expertise, present merchandise, distribute product knowledge, provide
customer service, facilitate order-desk inquiries, drive brick-and-mortar traffic, or implement an e-commerce sales system; if you don't deliver a consistent and
coherent marketing message, you will fail. All your efforts will be lost in the clutter and noise of a ferociously competitive marketplace.
How much time do you expect people to invest in deciphering your website? Give yourself a chance to succeed, give your audience something to remember, something to
think about. You may not get the instant sale, but you're more likely to gain a customer.