Comments on: Be Careful what you put in a Template

By: Dwayne

Dwayne — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 19:30:16 +0000

I think a lot depends on the size of the client. While having a “Great!” web design where large amounts of time and money were put into researching, user testing, etc is good for large companies with the backing to do it. Small companies often can’t or don’t want to afford that.

If it means the difference of the company having the resources to adequately promote the site as well as having a “GOOD ENOUGH” site or having a “Great” site they can’t afford to promote. I would opt for the good enough one. If it fits the need, promotion will often fill in the gaps.

By: Emil

Emil — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 12:17:29 +0000

Regarding Lewinâ€™s equation:
I suppose there is more to the environment than “On the Web the environment is the interface itself”?

What does other peoples reviews, comments and so on fall under on a site with social features? Are they part of my personality (because they are part of my knowledge or experience with the site) or are they part of the environment?

Maybe this is not an important question but I’m interested to hear your opinion.

By: Johan

Johan — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 17:20:32 +0000

And what if the today client says … this does not reflect what I had in mind. You have to start over … When a client gives references to websites that he/she likes, you should not copy it but turn it into/transpose it a distinct feel. You sample // resample. That is good practice, rework but add what the client asks for. that is design …

By: David Garcia

David Garcia — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 03:51:10 +0000

“or put it in your portfolio” … sigh … too true. I haven’t done a web site this year I’d put in my portfolio. There are still 2.5 months left though, there is still hope!

By: pepelicious

pepelicious — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 21:31:42 +0000

I have to agree with Steve… the advice Godin gives reminds me of the site design work I’ve done for tiny start-ups over the years. That approach is great for a product that only needs to be ‘good enough’ to get funding.

It pretty much amounts to design prostitution: wham, bam, here’s your $20 … let’s go our separate ways and never speak of this again… or put it in your portfolio

By: Steve

Steve — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 13:40:12 +0000

I don’t agree with what Seth says, but I can’t argue with his title: How to create a GOOD ENOUGH website. While good enough might work for a freelance gig, it’s going to largely serve as a feeling of emptiness when living out a vision. When we dream, we dream big and big dreams call for certain ambitions… Thinking beyond the everyday site and looking for more. Yes, this produces massive failures for poor execution, but it also produces large successes from those doing it right. Seth appeals to an audience that is looking to make a buck on a side project, not an audience that is looking to bring a vision to life.

Great commentary as always, Josh!