Often referred to as Web navigation the Hierarchical navigation model goes from the general to the specific; from a homepage to main sections to subsections and databases. It is a way to tie together many areas of information into a working website structure.

A visitor could easily go from the homepage to other areas of the website and back again.

The goal of any hierarchical/website navigation system is to offer the user a clear and simple way to access all pages in a site easily and to do so quickly from anywhere in the website.

Hierarchical Navigation Diagram

Most popular navigation model

This type of navigation is most commonly used by most webmasters and is often referred to as web navigation. It is a combination of linear and database structures which are interconnected to provide access to any page in the website.

A good example of this is a sitemap. The links are arranged into a pattern by the webmaster and are easily accessible by the visitor.

How to Organize a Website

Drop-Down Menus

This method of website navigation is often employed by the use of multiple drop-down menus. Each of the main website sections are displayed on a webpage as a link. Then by clicking on the links the subsections and/or databases become visible via a drop-down menu.

Sitemaps

The most common type of Hierarchical navigation system is the sitemap. Each page of a website is represented by a text link, in the sitemap, which when clicked opens the page it represents. A sitemap has the advantage of giving the visitor a birds eye view of the entire website at a glance making it easy for them to locate the information that they seek.

Beginners Guide to Sitemaps

Navigation bars

Navigation bars are also widely used throughout this type of website. They provide a way to link all or parts of the website content in a uniform manner.

By placing a nav bar on each page of your website you are providing an avenue, for your visitors, to explore deeper into the site.

Website Navigation and Theme

Navigation scheme

Look at some of the most popular websites and see how they accomplish their navigation. Take notes and design a navigation scheme, based on what you learn, that best suits your needs. The key here is to experiment until you achieve the desired result.

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