Start as close to the end as possible

When students are taught how to write assignments and papers, they are told to use a clear structure that flows and sticks to the point. They are told this because it helps the reader follow their train of thought and the information they are trying to relay.

The same can be said about websites.

If you own a website without a carefully considered structure and poor site navigation, you’re putting your own readers off. You can learn more below, or give us a call to discuss your educational website’s current site navigation.

What is website navigation?

Website navigation refers to the user experience of navigating through the pages of a website.

It typically starts with a homepage menu and goes off into other web pages grouped together depending on their topics.

One way to think about website navigation is to think of the architect of a house. The architect starts with an entryway, and then the house leads to a series of rooms from a hallway. From these rooms other rooms may become accessible. A website is similar; only it uses web pages instead of rooms.

Why seamless site navigation matters!

And just like there are bad architects and outdoor toilet sheds still in some gardens, there are some poor website architecture designs with unfriendly site navigation.

Website navigation matters because it helps the visitor find what they are looking for. If it is not easy to navigate your site quickly and locate the required information, products or services, the visitor will quickly leave to visit one of your competitors.

Poor website navigation could mean lost clients – and lost income!

Why it matters even more for schools and colleges

Public service providers like schools and colleges might not have a commercial motivation, but they still require seamless site navigation so that students and parents can access information quickly, without having to call the school each time they need something.

It could be reasonably argued that public education providers need efficient site navigation even more than a commercial business. Why, you ask? Well, even a small school or college must provide and communicate vast amounts of information to students and their parents throughout the year in the form of prospectuses, calendars, syllabuses, teacher information, exam information, and so much more. Probably more than the average small business. This information may not be as easy to break down and categorise as it is to categorise products for sale, making site navigation a difficult task to overcome.

Is our site navigation failing?

A competent web developer will be able to analyse your website’s performance and identify the reasons why your site visitors leave. If the data shows they click around on multiple pages within a short time before leaving, it could suggest that the site navigation isn’t clear or simple enough.

Some websites can be edited with new site architecture and consequently improved site navigation. However, for some websites needing a site navigation overhaul, it could be worthwhile to start again with a brand-new website.

Website design service for schools and colleges

If you want the WEBPRO Education team to assess your current site layout and ease of navigation, or you are looking for a brand new school website with smooth site navigation, speak with WEBPRO Education. Our team work closely with clients to discuss the very best site layout for your needs. We can help education providers to supply vast amounts of information to students and parents without compromising simplicity.

Recap: Website navigation is the process of going from each page of a website and finding what you need quickly and easily. Complex site navigation can cause delays or frustration, which results in visitors going elsewhere. For schools and colleges that must relay lots of information, keeping their website navigation simple and easy to follow can be tough. WEBPRO Education is always here to assist education providers with website design services that boast exceptional website architecture.

P.S. WEBPRO Education has already created the winning website navigation formula for other websites. You could be next!