When it comes to your web design, there are many key elements and features that need to be included. From headings and content, to images and links, the list is almost endless. But one feature that is probably one of the most important elements, is the navigation bar. This is the menu that allows your users to move between pages on your website, easily and quickly. As a result, it is extremely important to get the design of your navigation menu just right. And here at Pumpkin Web Design Manchester, we are Manchester’s leading web design experts. We work with companies and businesses across Manchester, and the surrounding area, including Wigan and Southport, to provide web design solutions that can help businesses grow. As a result, we have produced this guide to different navigation bar options for web design success.
Different navigation bar options for web design success
There are many ways to design and use navigation bars. And the options you choose will depend on the style of website you have. Some examples include:
- static navigation bar across the top of a page- this is probably the most common type of navigation bar. And it makes sense to display your pages across the top of the page, where your users will see it first. This can help them find the information they are looking for quickly and easily Which results in a positive user experience.
- static navigation across the bottom of the page- this is a navigation option that works well for websites that fit everything on one screen, above the fold. This way the content can be seen first, before the user looks for the navigation bar to move away. However, if your website pages are long and require scrolling, it’s a good idea to position the navigation bar closer to the top of the page.
- static navigation bar positioned vertically along the side of the page – why not compromise, and run the navigation bar from the top of the page, all the way to the bottom? This way it will be visible on loading the page, and on reaching the bottom of the page? This can be a good idea for websites that are a little more quirky, and want to stand out from the crowd.
- a hamburger menu- for minimalist web designs, the hamburger menu can be the perfect option. This involves simply hiding the navigation bar behind a button. Leaving the rest of your page free for content, rather than a navigation bar. Which can be messy. However, this also involves extra effort on the part of the user. And this additional interaction cost, could put some users off. While other might miss the navigation button altogether.
- a slide out menu- a navigation menu that slides out when you click a button (or swipe your thumb on a mobile device) can be an innovative and interesting way to add a menu to your page. And it won’t take up any screen space, apart from the button. As a result, it can be perfect for minimalist design. However, just like the hamburger menu, the slide out menu comes with an additional interaction cost. And users in a hurry, may well miss the button.
All of these options can be used effectively to fit with your particular company style, and website design. Choosing the right option for your company is important, as the wrong type of navigation bar, can lead to a negative user experience.
For more information about web design and navigation, get in touch with the experts today, here at Pumpkin Web Design Manchester. Manchester’s leading web design experts.