8. Navigation

8.1.1 Use navigation mechanisms in a consistent manner

Guide to this recommendation

As stated from the Irish National Disability Authority, ensure that the following characteristics of navigation mechanisms are more or less uniform throughout a site or a series of related sites creates consistency:

• Visual presentation - navigation elements look similar from page to page
• Order - navigation elements are presented in a consistent sequence
• Language - terminology is consistent
• Behaviour - links and navigation controls always do the same thing when activated

This recommendation covers the W3C WAI checkpoint 13.4 for NZ government agencies.

Rationale for this recommendation

Consistency in the web site is a key component of good site design. It enables users to gain a quicker understanding of the structure of the site and enhances their familiarity and confidence with the site. This aids to the desired goal of a good user experience when visiting the site.

8.1.2 Differing searches for skill levels if searching provided

If search functions are provided, enable different types of searches for different skill levels and preferences

Guide to this recommendation

Specifications and guidelines for search engine technology is beyond the scope of this document. Attempting to employ “intelligence” within a search engine to predict what a user is looking for heads off into some very complex technological areas.

Related Recommendations

The simplest aid to this recommendation is adhering to other recommendations, notably:

5.1.1 - Use the clearest and simplest language appropriate for a site's content

3.1.1 - Use appropriate mark-up language when it exists

16.1.1 - Divide large blocks of information into manageable groups

8.1.1 - Use navigation mechanisms in a consistent manner

16.1.6 - A homepage has a link to Search or a Search box

Some simpler guides that can enhance the usability and accessibility of a search facility are:

• catering for incorrect spelling, for instance, abbreviations and missing vowels.
• searching for the plural and non-plural instances of entered words.

This recommendation covers the W3C WAI checkpoint 13.7 (http://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG10-TECHS/#tech-searches) for NZ government agencies.

Rationale for this recommendation

Searching is a further aid to navigation, thus enhancing the usability and accessibility of the web site. Not all users know the correct spelling of a word or phrase they are searching for, and not all users have the natural language of the web site as their primary language.

If the underlying search engine facility can employ a degree of intelligence with respect to what a user has entered, even if not matching exactly a word or passage of text within the site, the accessibility and usefulness of the site is further enhanced.

8.1.3 Non-government links not an endorsement

It is clear that a link to a non-government site is not intended as an endorsement nor the responsibility of the referring agency. A disclaimer is acceptable, and one disclaimer per site is sufficient.

Guide to this recommendation

If the agency has a disclaimer section or dedicated disclaimer page, it would be appropriate to place any disclaimer content in this section or page.

It is acceptable to have a reference to a non government entity on a web site, such as a third party that hosts the agency web site, as long as the non-government entity is not being promoted/recommended in any way.

Related Standard(s)

16.6 - Copyright of third parties

Rationale for this recommendation

By mandate, agencies are not to promote any non-government body.