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Navigation Menus

Effective navigation is the foundation of a user-friendly and seamless experience. Simple and intuitive navigation reduces cognitive load and makes it easier for users to find what they’re looking for. Users are unlikely to click on a link if its value is not obvious.

  • Avoid ambiguous or internal-facing terms and marketing language.
    Clear and descriptive navigation labels inform users about the purpose and content of each navigation item.
    Do
    Product Training

    Find your rep

    Don't
    Start Strong

    Go Unlimited

  • Keep link text as concise and scannable as possible.
    Users might struggle with processing large amounts of information. Concise and scannable navigation helps users quickly locate the content they’re interested in without feeling overwhelmed.
    Do
    Instructor Resources

    Career Education

    Don't
    Teaching Tools and Resources

    Career Education Programs

  • Prioritize important content and actions in the navigation to align with user goals.

    This streamlines the user journey, guiding them towards their desired action efficiently. Do not overwhelm the user with a long list of links with no separation by user intent or importance in the menu hierarchy.

    Do
    Instructor Resources
    • Learn
      • Product articles
      • Teaching articles
      • Webinars & events
    • Connect
      • Faculty community
      • Peer consultation
    Don't
    Instructor
    • Products
    • eBooks
    • Cengage Unlimited
    • Affordable Solutions
    • Product Training
    • Instructor Help
    • Resources
  • Provide contextually relevant navigation items.

    Navigation items that are contextually relevant to the page content guide users to related sections or actions.

    For any given page, allow only one possible state for the navigation bar. The navigational elements (menu items, search bar, etc.) never change based on user information because consistency is paramount to core UI navigation.

  • Provide predictable and consistent navigation items.
    Predictable and consistent navigation enhances users’ understanding and creates improved user experiences. Predictability allows customers with disabilities to better navigate their online experience.

    Don’t change navigation labels or items abruptly, as it can disorient users and disrupt their experience.

    Do
    Consistently use the word "Support" for the same support link on all pages.
    Don't
    Use "Support" on some pages and "Help" on other pages for the same support link.