Design vs Art Blog

Embedding links into your content encourages users to visit other sections of your website. Placing links into articles also gives more context and value to users.

"A common problem is that users do not understand where the link could go…"

It’s important to pay attention on the way these links are done. A common problem is that users do not understand where the link could go. On the example below, taken from News.com, it’s clear for most users that clicking on "struck licensing agreements" would link to an article about that. On the other hand, clicking on "Imeem", would take the user to the company’s website or to other news about it?

The New York Times goes one step forward making embedded links more understandable, predictable and user friendly. As the user hover over the candidates’ names in this politics article, the link label appears telling users that they would be taken to more articles about that candidate. Using proper link labeling improves usability and avoid confusion. (Mouse arrow is not displayed).

Popularity: 22% [?]

Providing different URLs for every web search result page will give users the possibility to copy and paste the link. That means that they can make a search and easily send the results to another person.

Taking care of usability issues improves the user experience and could increase your sales. This is a good example. Imagine customers sending search results to their friends or partner to discuss about the next thing to buy. Make users’ life easier and you will win too.

Amazon is again an example of good web design. The URL has an estrange code for internal use but it was a smart decision to add the search terms to it (e.g. art + deco), so users can remember what was that link about.

Popularity: 13% [?]