It's amazing what you can do with the web today. But even with all that's possible, too many companies fall into the trap of ignoring what's practical.
Go back to the basics.
No matter what your goals are for your website keep the three basics in mind at all times... Effective Design, Clear Navigation and Great Content.
Your website design says more about your company in 5 seconds than anything else. Don't worry about creating the next great piece of art - design doesn't have to be art - Good design's role is to establish credibility in a way that fits its intended audience.
Navigation is part of the design - but rather than being graphical design, it's information design. Your navigation has the single purpose of escorting your visitors to the information you want them to see. That's it. It doesn't matter if it's "cool" or "fancy" it just has to be clear - and obvious.
But then there's the content. Content is King! Your site's content is the story of your company - an autobiography if you will. You've got a story to tell and people want to read it. Take the time to develop good content that's interesting and informative.
When you go astray in a web development project, just go back to the basics. Whatever the issue, if you hold it up against the design, navigation and content goals you'll find your direction.
- Mike
PS. If you want more on this topic, check out my Building a Better Website webinar from last August.