We’ve been discussing today on the Warrior Forums whether your website should blend in the “niche standards” or be totally different.
Here’s my take on this :
Having a cute website makes no difference.
Having a flashy website makes no difference.
Your website has to be Branded - so yes, it should definitely stand apart from other people’s, but the goal is NOT to be different. The goal here is to leave a picture and a name in your reader’s mind.
That’s why designs that show the owner’s face or silhouette are great. It’s “their home”. You will remember these dudes, and even recongnize them on the streets.
See Facebook ? the website doesn’t “stand out” however you WILL recognize it anytime. That blue color and this clean-cut style is the brand.
How to test your website design - will it stick ?
The “big test” is : standing 10 feet away from your computer, is it possible for somebody who enters your office to see that website and say “hey, it’s Whatever.com right ?”.
Most websites would never pass that test.
By the way, don’t tell me that FTM (this very blog) doesn’t pass the test. I’m not trying here. It’s in my plans for the next month though 
Tony
Tags: Brand building, Sticky design, Website design