Navigation 'should be consistent'

Category: Usability

February 8th 08, 11:36

Consistency is key with navigation options, according to new advice.

A report in E-consultancy recommends that search tools should be positioned in the same place on each page of a website to avoid consumer confusion.

While acknowledging that the checkout could be a possible exception to this, the sector information resource explains consistency brings the double benefit of customer retention and search engine optimisation.

Other tips for good site navigation include locating navigation menus on the left or at the top of the page, as this is the convention.

Clear fonts, concise language and a minimal number of options are all said to keep things simple and consumer-facing.

And drop-down menus should be avoided, as they prevent users from being able to scan all options at a single glance, it is claimed.

A recent article in the publication noted that suggesting search terms to users as they type can help generate conversions.

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