I've always known webdesign is important when trying to sell a product, but why is it people are still using the old fashioned web 1.0 designs (www.greatnightsleep5.com). Do these ebook like websites actually convert better than professionally designed webpages? Or are they just too lazy to hire a good designer?
To be honest, it seems as though that they are either not aware of the new web 2.0 standards, or they have just not had the time or money to convert to the new approach. But, if you are starting your eCommerce venture online, I would really encourage you to stick to web 2.0 standards and you will succeed alot more than you would using a traditional 1.0 look.
Although desing counts but to get the sales volume, it doesn't matter what the design you have. Main thing is the depth and coverage of your website. You should have interesting contents and the product required by the consumer. That's enough rather than design.