How to Improve Website Navigation

Website navigation matters; however, it is frequently overlooked. High-quality website navigation is beneficial for both users and search engine optimization (SEO) purposes. When website navigation is done properly, it is easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for, making them happy. Furthermore, good website layout also makes it easier for search engines to find what they need, leading to improved visibility. In order to properly construct a website, making it easier to navigate, there are a few practices that everyone should follow.

Keep Website Navigation Consistent from Page to Page

One of the biggest mistakes that people make is using an inconsistent navigation method. Make sure that relevant information is in the same place on every page. For example, the “menu” of the website should show up in the same location on every page. This helps visitors find what they’re looking for. Visitors that are able to quickly move from page to page will be able to process information more quickly. On the other hand, if they need to reorient themselves because every page looks different, this will make them unhappy.

Make Sure Navigation Elements are Clickable

While this might sound obvious, many websites have navigation elements that aren’t always clickable. Many website visitors use the mouse to track what they’re reading on the website. Therefore, as they look through the menu options, the mouse is going to follow their eyes. When they find what they’re looking for, they are going to click on it. This element needs to work. This includes every subcategory that pops out from the menu. This type of easy navigation is critical for the user.

Link Between Content Categories

First, those looking to improve the layout of their website need to make sure to link between various content categories. Try to construct category hierarchies that make sense to the user. For example, a page on “computers” might include information on both desktops and laptops, with links to appropriate products. Then, “desktops” and “laptops” might be further divided by brand. This “top-down” approach will create an easy approach for both users and search engines to follow. Then, add crosslinks to related products, such as keyboards, speakers, and monitors. Construct a logical hierarchy for the user and then cross-link as appropriate.

Add ALT Text to Images and Videos

Images often lead to other pages and function as a clickable link. In order for visitors to know what the image is, and for the image to function properly, ensure it has an ALT attribute along with descriptive text. This is critically important for both the website visitors and search engines that might be crawling through the page.

Improve Website Navigation Easily

These are a few easy tips that everyone can follow to improve the navigation of their website. Improving website navigation is important both for website visitors and for SEO purposes. Those who take the time to regularly improve the navigation of their website will see their traffic increase in the future.