A Web of Confusion

Why is it that there are so many terribly designed web sites in our virtual universe? The answer lies in the fact that people just don't know any better. Our discussions have often times labeled so web sites as ridiculous because of their "mystery meat" and poor navigation. Especially in the case of mystery meat, web developers are trying to show off their technology. The same goes with implementing flash and other web enhancers. However, as the technology is constantly changing, people want to stay at the top of what is fresh. Often times just because it's fresh doesn't mean it's good. To top it all off, most people really don't know the difference between what is good and what is not; they cannot balance the implementation of flashy design and usability.

NOTES TO PONDER: Which is more important, impressing the viewers that come to your site with flashy technology (while running the risk of them getting a little lost on the site), OR having a very user friendly site that is less technologically advanced? What is the perfect balance between the two? Is there one? Can they exist in harmony(I admit, I got a little carried away with this one)?