Solving a Problem
Ideally your product or service is solving a problem for your customers. In order to attract attention and interest you have to be solving a problem or entertaining. To convert you need to inspire desire and action.
Solving the Problem
There is a difference between solving “a” problem and solving “the” problem. Solving “the” problem involves identifying the problems your customers or users are having with your product, service or web site. After you understand “their” problems you can create solutions.
Testing
Usability Testing is an important part of the process for creating powerful solutions to user centered problems. Many times we make assumptions about how our design is being used to solve the problem rather than observing and testing that design solution. Testing just 5 users can find 85% of your problems.
Measurement
There needs to be a plan for measuring the use of a web site. The analytics gathered can help you plan for better solutions and identify the preferences of your customers.