Navigation

• It's very important to always tell the users where they are and how to get back to previous information.

• Don't confuse the viewers.
  • organize information as simply as possible
  • have consistent, clear navigation instructions in the same place on every page
  • provide a consistent link back to the home page

• Provide consistent navigation.
  • consistent page design
    
  • consistent navigation elements (text or graphic elements)
  • consistent placement on the page
  • keep important navigation at the top of the page
  • use larger graphics on more important pages, smaller ones on subareas
  • use the same graphical elements multiple times to increase the loading speed of following pages

• Always have a search feature on your site.

• Use appropriate metaphors that viewers recognize.
  • green means go, red means stop
  • top of the page is the beginning, the bottom is the end
  • big, bold words are more important than smaller print
  • make sure graphic links are not too abstract

• Always supply alternative text to graphical links. Make it descriptive.

• Try to make information accessible within 2 clicks of your home page.

• Don't link pages that are under construction until you have information there.

This section was compiled by NDSU Agriculture Communication Copyright  © 2000  North Dakota State University. All rights reserved.

North Dakota State University Extension Service