After researching and working on various landing page optimization projects, I’ve compiled a checklist, if you want to design your own effective landing pages to optimize conversions:

• Large, clear, concise Primary Headline
• Large, germane product shot when appropriate
• Large, direct Call To Action (CTA) above the fold
• Multiple additional CTAs throughout the page
• Minimize off-page navigation
• Short, prioritized Key Features list
• 2 Columns
• Testimonials
• Pricing
• Human face(s) for testimonals or in images
• Highlight search terms (of referred traffic) in page
• Use A/B and Multivariate Testing
• Optimize page for fast loading
• Measure, Tweak, Repeat

3 Key Questions:

1. What is offered?
2. Why the prospect should care?
3. What does the prospect need to do?

A few other optional ideas you might want to consider:

• Orange may be the best color for CTA buttons
• Design for least-common-denominator browsers – could be 800×600 and/or mobile