Novel

I've been inspired to start work again on a story of mine. More than blogging or poetry I have always wanted to write novels, and someday I hopefully will. It takes a much higher degree of concentration, dedication, and skill with both words and plot devices to pull off a novel. 
A novel has infinitely more power than a poem or article however, as it adds a personal dimension. Characters in a ballad and their struggles are only real in proportion to how much the reader can apply them to his life. In a book however the characters become part of the reader’s life to the degree that their struggles are felt by the reader like his own. 
On a scale of importance, having a well thought out plot is more important than crafty writing, having good characters is more important than having a well thought out plot, and having a good story idea is more important than good characters. 
Hopefully I have a good idea and good characters. I lack experience in using plot devices and planning out a story line.