Navigation

What is Navigation

Navigation is the system of elements that allows users to move through a digital product and find the information they need. It's the framework that guides users through content, features, and functionality while helping them understand their current location.

Types of Navigation

Essential navigation patterns include:

• Global Navigation: Main menu present across all pages
• Local Navigation: Section-specific menu options
• Contextual Navigation: Related content links
• Utility Navigation: Access to supplementary functions

How to design effective Navigation

Create intuitive navigation by implementing clear hierarchies, using consistent patterns, providing location indicators, and ensuring responsive behavior across devices. Focus on user mental models and common navigation patterns that users already understand.

Principles of Good Navigation

Navigation should be discoverable, accessible, and predictable. It should help users answer three key questions: Where am I? Where can I go? Where have I been? Consider both efficiency and learnability in your navigation design.