Various methods have been proposed to achieve the suitable alignment of monomers in the crystal. These methods can be divided into two categories:
An obvious method is to introduce supramolecular interactions to the monomer.  Popular choices include π - π stacking interactions, hydrogen/halogen bonding interactions, and Coulomb interactions. These interactions are sometimes inherent properties of reaction groups, such as π-π interaction between azide and acetylene group, or stacking force between biphenylethylene unit. Sometimes the side groups are introduced to form a network within the crystal.
The other strategy is to take advantage of the so-called "host-guest" assembly. In this case, the monomer is designed to link to a "host" molecule, while the host molecule is in charge of forming the ordered network. The host molecule stays intact during the polymerization. Such strategies simplify the synthesis of monomer.