While content may be king and good design is crucial, easy navigation is vital to a user when viewing a website.How quickly can users locate a particular page on your site? If it takes more than two or three clicks, you may have to reconsider your site layout. To learn how to create effective navigation, follow these five easy tips.
1. Be Self Explanatory
Depending on the nature of your business, the main navigation of the site will differ. However, every good site has a self explanatory navigation. For instance, in order to reach a larger audience, it is important to incorporate terminology that the majority of users will be familiar with in your main nav. This will allow easy maneuvering around the site with minimal confusion.
2. Necessary Main Navigation Tabs
There are certain necessary tabs in every navigation bar because they provide users with the majority of information that they will need when visiting a website. Overall, you want your users to be able to easily interact with your company as well as learn about how your company can assist them, whether that is through services or the product your company sells.
3. Additional Navigational Features
Keep in mind that all users will not be accessing your site on a device that has a back button. As a result, it is a good idea to include what is referred to as “breadcrumbs” on your site. Other features you may include are a header and footer nav bar, which only includes the main nav. Incorporating a search bar and sitemap is also advisable.
Get the last two tips on website navigation here!