Accessible Website Navigation: Do's and Don'ts
Introduction
Website navigation is one of the most important factors in creating a successful website. It’s the key to user experience and can make or break a site’s accessibility. When it comes to accessibility, website designers have a responsibility to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, can navigate around the site with ease. In this article, we’ll be discussing the do’s and don’ts of accessible website navigation, so that you can create a website that’s easy to use for everyone.Do: Create a Clear Navigation Structure
The first rule of creating an accessible website is to create a clear navigation structure. This means your menu should be easy to read and follow, with clear labels that accurately describe each page or section. Consider using dropdown menus or breadcrumb navigation to help users navigate more effectively. It’s also important to make sure that your navigation is consistent across all pages of your site, so users can easily find what they’re looking for.Don’t: Use Non-Standard Navigation Techniques
One thing to avoid is using non-standard navigation techniques. This includes hiding links behind icons, using unusual navigation methods like wheel-based scrolling, or using images as clickable links without text. These non-standard techniques may look cool or be trendy, but they can make it difficult for users to navigate your site effectively. Keep things simple and stick to standard techniques that are familiar to users.Do: Use Descriptive Link Text
Another important factor in accessible website navigation is using descriptive link text. This means using text that accurately describes the content that the user will be taken to when they click the link. Avoid using generic terms like “click here” or “read more”. Instead, use descriptive link text like “Learn more about our products” or “See our latest blog post about SEO”. This helps users with screen readers or cognitive disabilities to understand what content they’ll be taken to.Don’t: Create Too Many Menu Options
While it’s important to have a clear navigation structure, you should also avoid creating too many menu options. If you overwhelm users with too many options, they may get frustrated and leave the site. Instead, limit your menu options to the most important pages or sections of your site. Consider creating a “sitemap” page for more detailed information about all of your pages or sections of your site.Do: Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can be incredibly helpful for users with disabilities. Consider adding keyboard shortcuts for important pages or sections of your site to make navigating easier. For example, you might use the “Alt+1” shortcut to take users to your home page, or “Alt+2” to take them to your products page. Make sure to include a clear explanation of these shortcuts on your site.Don’t: Use Flash or Animated Navigation
Finally, it’s important to avoid using flash or animated navigation. This can be distracting and make it difficult for users with cognitive disabilities to navigate your site effectively. Stick to simple, static navigation techniques that are easy to read and understand. Using animations or other flashy techniques can detract from the user experience and make it harder for users to navigate.Overall, creating accessible website navigation is about keeping things simple and intuitive. By creating a clear navigation structure, using descriptive link text, and avoiding non-standard navigation techniques, you can create a website that’s easy to use for everyone.
Remember to test your navigation with real users, including those with disabilities, to make sure that your website is truly accessible to everyone.
- Create a clear navigation structure
- Avoid non-standard navigation techniques
- Use descriptive link text
- Don’t create too many menu options
- Use keyboard shortcuts
- Avoid flash or animated navigation