Agreed that there are significant cognitive differences based on buying cycles and the product itself. But there is a single method to constructing a category page. Using Persuasion Architecture methodology we first focus on the customer’s need, then the profitable action we want them to take, and lastly we answer the question “How do we get them to take that action”. With our “3 question” method we are able to map a page that will deal with several buying types in several buying stages buying ANY product.

As I think you were suggesting ,the PA category pages from site to site can be drastically different in terms of elements and layout, but were all constructed using a single customer focused method.

Until then, I appreciate when e-tailers offer:
“View All” links,
Appropriate sort-by tools,
Sub-categories that solve by problem (Sephora) or gift recipient/personality
Showing colors available, available sizes and in-stock availability
Quickview images, or product/color/image view switching with rollover (Eddie Bauer does this well)
Showing product information pre-click (Rampage does this well with AJAX rollover previews)
Showing top rated items at the top, with star rating visible

The answer is not really. Most are still too challenged to make a radical change. There are 3 general parts to category pages; gallery, narrow & refine, product (or sub-category) selection. I’ve seen brilliant executions on the elements, but not on the complete page.

I am ready for someone to do the whole thing. It requires real strong planning and hard work though.

Bryan