Keep Navigation Consistent
First-time visitors should understand your website in seconds. Too many navigation options make it harder for visitors to find what they need quickly.
When it comes to website navigation, consistency is key.
Get help with your website navigation today! Open a ticket requesting assistance.
The Rule of 7
Buffalo State follows the +/-7 rule for global (top-level) navigation when developing its sites. Research shows that a user can visually process at most six or seven navigation items in a short review time. The more navigation options you have, the harder it is for visitors to remember and process the information.
Drupal Website Navigation
Academic Websites
For navigation, use universal, easy-to-understand words. Avoid acronyms and institutional jargon.
Drupal academic websites should include at least the following global navigation items:
- About
- Academics (or “Programs” or “Majors & Minors”)
- Admission & Aid (or “Apply”)
- Faculty & Staff (or “People” or “Directory”)
Additional items (up to a total of seven) can include the following:
- Advisement
- Alumni
- For Students
- For Faculty
- Internships
- News & Events
- Outcomes
- Research
Non-Academic Websites
Use universal, easy-to-understand words. Avoid acronyms and institutional jargon.
Drupal non-academic websites should also include no more than 7 navigation items.
Suggested navigation terms:
- Book Appointment
- Pay Bill
- Order Transcript
- For Students
- For Faculty and Staff