The question that needs to be asked is "what is the purpose of the index" page?

Typically it's is too make sale, get registrations as is with this case or some other purpose. Having said that I would have your "sign in" box lower down the page or even a link to a "sign in" page.

After registration where clients sign in can be mentioned in the welcome email so there is no confusion.

As stated in previous comments it comes down to testing, sales copy and relevance of your page topic to what people are searching for. If your sales copy is rubbish it won't matter where you place your registration form.

These are my thoughts/what I have found to be the most effective...

1. Most people are right handed so I put the sign up/registration box in the the RH sidebar. Just seems easier and logical.

2. The sign up box in the sidebar should be noticable but not intrusive to the main sales copy.

3. Unless you have an amazing copy writer, keep the registration form short. It is harder to get more personal information out of someone than say a name and an email address.

4. Stick to benefits in your sales copy.

5. Also place the sign up/registration form at the end of the sales copy.

6. Potential customers need to be convinced that the information will be of benefit and that it is "safe" to get that information. Therefore testimonials and "trusted site" logos go a long way.

7. Test and re test copy.


Cheers, Chris.

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