Keep important pages 'a few clicks away'

08/10/2008

Those involved in web design should make sure that the important pages on a website are no more than a few clicks away from the homepage, it has been claimed.

Experts at Google noted that relatively few search engine crawlers use search boxes or pulldown menus.

Consequently, it is advisable to ensure that easily navigable links are placed on the site to ensure that Googlebot can search throughout the site.

In a blog, Maile Ohye said that leaving a breadcrumb trail could make the site easier for users.

Ensuring that links back to the homepage are included in the web design could also be beneficial as it can prevent people from getting trapped within the site.

She commented: "While you're welcome to try the latest technologies, keep in mind that when text-based links are available and easily navigable for users, chances are that search engines can crawl your site as well."

Google has recently launched an e-commerce ad on YouTube, which enables users of the video hosting site to buy digital goods from Apple or Amazon in one click, reports the New York Times.