The database or grid design of website navigation is made up of multiple main divisions and each division is linked to its own database. This type of navigation can be used effectively when large amounts of data are required in your website's design. The main divisions are generally displayed as a navigation bar or list of links. When a visitor clicks on one of the navigation tabs or main links they are taken to a database of information pertaining to the subject of their search.

Database navigation model diagram

Below is a diagram showing the structure of such a site. As you can see the linking track goes from the homepage or index page to the main divisions of the website and on to the database. This makes information retrieval simple and affords the webmaster an organized website structure that is simple to maintain.

fig. 2 - Database Navigation Diagram

Visitors options

With database navigation the visitor begins by selecting the main heading that best serves their purpose. From there they can drill down deeper and deeper into the selected database to locate the information they seek.

See: Website Navigation and Theme - There are several schools of thought on website navigation

Database navigation is the type of website structure used by most online merchants to classify and store information on their products. This type of website navigation is also well suited to organizations that document statistics or lists of data for distribution on the Internet.

See: Tips for Improving Website Navigation - In order to provide your visitors with the information they need your navagation path should be clear.

Examples of database navigation

An auto parts site might use this configuration when they develop their website so that their customers can locate a specific part from a particular category.

The main divisions could be starters, engine parts, fluids,etc. and the databases would contain information as to specific vehicle, year, etc.. In this way vast amounts of information can be stored on the website for visitor retrevial.

See: How to Map a Good HTML Site Map - There are certain benefits to having a good HTML sitemap

Another example would be a search engine such as Google. From their homepage the visitor types in a search term (i.e. main division) which in turn serves up a database of links. As you can see database navigation organizes knowledge into manageable chunks which can be easily accessed by a guest.

Website Navigation and Layout

Sitemaps and SEO

For those who don't devote too much time on the SEO of their site - this is a good place to start. By submittíng a sitemap to various search engines, you are telling them that you exist and what pages your site has to offer the World Wide Web.

How to Make Easy Website Navigation

Navigation is how visitors get around your site. If your navigation is unclear then your visitors will get frustrated and go away.

Navigational Options for Your Website

There are many types of navigation methods to choose from. You must carefully consider the layout of your site so you can choose the system that will work best.

Web Site Navigation Best Practices

A great user experience will bring visitors back. Navigation is a key element in the user experience.

Developing a Theme for your Website

Every website should have some type of theme or a way of giving your site an identifying look. When visitors come to your website they should be presented with an experience that they will remember.

Website Navigation and Theme

Have you ever visited a website where you keep clicking on links, hoping you are going to find that information you're looking for, only to be led to more pages of links.

Tips for Improving Website Navigation

In order for visitors to find the right information, a website's navigation path needs to be clear.

Professional Webpage Layout

The layout of your webpages says a lot about you and your message. Good webpage layout is the key to a successful website.

Web Site Design Layout - Five Common Elements

Your web site design layout largely depends on the type of website you're building. A sales page, for example, has different requirements than a landing page, and a landing page has different requirements than a niche web page.

Web Page Design Ideas - How to Use Graphics Creatively

Keep your web site design simple, and never lose sight of what you want your visitors to do when they arrive.

Website Design - 3 Pointers For Color You Must Consider

The correct use of color in your website design is paramount to ensure your site is not plain and uninteresting or on the other spectrum too busy, glaring and difficult to look at for a period of time.

Creating a Basic Web Design Template

A "template" is simply a design format which you can apply to all (or most) of the pages in your web site.