Multiple Ways

There should be multiple ways to locate a page or section within the website. Each website has navigation links that direct users to different pages of the website. Similarly, there are headings, landmarks, bypass links and so on to navigate to different section or content of the webpage.

screenshot of a webpage with by-pass navigation
Figure 1 : An example of a webpage with Skip link and navigation links

Implementation

  • Any 2 of the given methods SHOULD be used to provide ways to navigate a website:
    • Navigational links – in the form of a navigation menu or a list of links
    • Sitemap – a webpage consisting structured list of links to every page of a website.
    • Search functionality – provide users with an option to search for a particular content/page.
  • Multiple ways to navigate within a webpage CAN be provided by implementing a good heading structure, appropriate landmarks on the page or providing bypass links to jump to specific section of the page. For more information, refer to Headings, Landmark and Landmark Regions, Navigation and Bypass Blocks - Skip Links components.
  • In case if the content or a page is due to the result of a process or following steps, it SHOULD NOT be reachable via multiple ways.

Why is it important?

A well-defined website with multiple ways to locate the pages majorly benefit the below users.

  • People with cognitive disabilities
  • People with visual disabilities
  • People using keyboard only
  • People with limited dexterity