Cutting-edge Web Site Graphic Design Techniques

By Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist

Running a business isn't just for business people anymore. With the explosion of ecommerce Web sites on the Web everyday, anyone can sell goods and services from their own Internet presence. If you're testing the ecommerce waters, here are some Web site graphic design tools that will increase your profits quickly.

As the Web continues to evolve, ecommerce business owners are facing the challenge of responding to new developments. With billions of dollars spent online everyday, there is an arsenal of Web site graphic design tools and techniques that will allow you to get your piece of the action. The addition of just one of these elements can increase your ability to be successful several times over. Ignore them, and you'll soon get passed by.

Web Site Graphic Tools
Here are some of the most effective ways you can revamp your Web site to increase your number of visitors and total sales.

• AVI Intros. Putting an introductory AVI movie on your Web site will add a new dimension for your visitors. This graphic design tool allows you to offer an immediate visual explanation of the value points of your product.
• Suggestive Selling. Introduced by Internet giant Amazon, suggestive selling graphics will increase your sales by offering visitors a chance to buy other products that are similar to the ones they purchase initially.
• Coupon Codes. Coupon code graphics allow your customers to enter a specified code that gives them a percentage off of their sales. This is perfect to develop gift certificate programs and as a freebie for registering with your site.

Tools in Practice
You just have to see these tools in action to appreciate their effectiveness for generating new business and growing your bottom line. Here are some suggestions for ways to use them and achieve maximum results.

• Products. If you sell products on your Web site, say athletic equipment, an AVI graphic will show your product being used by a professional. Or you might use an upsell feature to suggest accompanying products.
• Services. If you're a cosmetologist, an AVI movie of you in action is a great way to "interview" for new clients 24/7. Then add in a coupon code for a free shampoo with a first appointment.

There's no reason why you can't equip your Web site with the same profit-generating graphic design tools that the major players enjoy. The investment you make in these cutting-edge Web site graphic design techniques will pay off several times over in revenue.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.