Of course, it is much more preferable to have detailed information about a product you're purchasing on the web. But the same goes for something purchased from a catalog or another source.

I have to have product information in order to buy something, online or not. You wouldn’t just walk up to a book sale and pick out the pink book just because it’s pink. The same should go with your online purchases. I don’t want to spend ten dollars on something even, if I can’t get some details about the product. I’ve seen this from time to time with books or movies. They put a picture of the cover up, and maybe the author or director, and then price. That’s all. I quickly move onto another place and look for a product description that at least gives me the basic information. Is this a book that is about murder, or is this movie ten years old and is rated PG or R? What is the basic synopsis to the film? I have to have information.

I never make an online purchase if there isn't enough information provided about the product. I like to see at least one good picture of the item, in addition to a detailed description. It's important to me to be able to see reviews by experts/professionals, if available, and I really value consumer product reviews, too. My favorite sites post a toll-free number so that you can call and ask questions. I think that providing the consumer with as much information as possible is key to maximizing online sales.