For users who rely on clear navigation cues, it’s crucial to know where they are in a site’s structure at any given time.
Location ensures that users always have context about where they are, so they can explore confidently without feeling lost.
Who this impacts
- Screen reader users: Clear navigation indicators like breadcrumbs help screen reader users keep track of their position within the site.
- People with cognitive impairments: Knowing their location on a site helps users stay oriented and prevents confusion when navigating between pages.
- All users: Breadcrumbs, clear navigation, and location indicators make it easier for everyone to find their way back to previous sections or see how content is organized.
How to meet Location
- Use breadcrumbs: Provide a breadcrumb trail on every page to show the user’s path through the site’s structure.
- Highlight the current page: Ensure that the current page is clearly highlighted within navigation menus, helping users see exactly where they are.
- Provide an overview: Offer an accessible site map or menu, allowing users to see the full structure of the site at a glance.
Practical example
Top tips
- Keep breadcrumbs simple: Make breadcrumb trails easy to read and understand, showing users a clear path back through the site.
- Highlight the current page: Make the current page stand out in the navigation to show users exactly where they are.
- Offer easy navigation back: Breadcrumbs and menus should make it simple to return to previous sections or explore other parts of the site.