All users need to be able to locate the information they require with ease and confidence. On each page, users need to know where they are on the site and what their options are.

Consistency and simplicity are the keys to accessible navigation; clarity and unambiguity in links and menus is essential.

You must give consideration to users who may be using a linear navigation device, such as a keyboard, or who are using touch-based gestures. 

In this section

  • Provide effective navigation based on recognised conventions
  • Provide additional navigational aids
  • Allow users to skip blocks of information easily
  • Maintain a logical tab and reading order and provide a clear focus indicator 
  • Use simple mobile gestures for interaction

References for this section

WCAG 2.1

  • 1.3.1 Info and Relationships (A)
  • 1.3.2 Meaningful Sequence (A)
  • 1.4.1 Use of Colour (A)
  • 1.4.4 Resize Text (AA)
  • 2.1.4 Character Key Shortcuts (A)
  • 2.4.1 Bypass Blocks (A)
  • 2.4.3 Focus Order (A)
  • 2.4.5 Multiple Ways (AA)
  • 2.4.6 Headings and Labels (AA)
  • 2.4.7 Focus Visible (AA)
  • 2.4.8 Location (AAA)
  • 2.5.5 Target Size (AAA)
  • 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation (AA)
  • 3.2.4 Consistent Identification (AA)

EN 301 549 v 2.1.2

  • 9.1.3.1 Info and Relationships
  • 9.1.3.2 Meaningful Sequence
  • 9.1.4.1 Use of Colour
  • 9.1.4.4 Resize Text
  • 9.2.1.4 Character Key Shortcuts
  • 9.2.4.1 Bypass Blocks
  • 9.2.4.3 Focus Order
  • 9.2.4.5 Multiple Ways
  • 9.2.4.6 Headings and Labels
  • 9.2.4.7 Focus Visible
  • 9.3.2.3 Consistent Navigation
  • 9.3.2.4 Consistent Identification

Further reading