There are many websites with pretty much the same format ideas and even shopping cart system. To stand out from the crowd you may need to use some careful planning on your website and differentiate yourself from the plug in majority.
There are a variety of established methods that can be used to plan your website.
Creativity and idea generation
Try to remove any obstacles to creativity these are those subconscious blockers that can prevent us from some innovative ideas
We are taught to conform
We look for a single best solution
We try to take the most direct route
We have a fear of failure
We may think we were born uncreative
Define the problem
"A problem well stated is half solved."
John Dewey
What are we aiming for - if we can define success.
A few techniques that my User Interface Design students at Griffith University are taught are -:
Brainstorming
This works best in an inspirational environment. There has been some criticism of the results of sterile office brainstorming techniques. A good moderator is important.
Incubation
Just sit back and wait for an answer to pop into your head.
Personas
Personas are examples of visitors to your website. They are ficticious customers that designers use to plan functionality. The persona will contain details of the individual, their marital status, occupation, habits preferences etc.
Usability Testing
Testing whether the design is working. Don't depend on designers to judge there own designs.
Statistics can be helpful here but these are only available after the fact.
Involvement Devices
What can we build that will hold a visitor allow them to create a relationship with you.
Can we get a subscription.
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