Web applications: An example of losing users to extraneous links

In the following example, toolbar commands could distract the user while performing the main task of configuring a new printer, thereby creating the possibility that the user may not complete the task.

Example of links that will cause users to interrupt important transactions
Links outside of an important task can send users on detours

A better way to structure an important task is to put only the relevant commands on the page and to require users to either complete or quit the task before doing anything else. In this case, the toolbar would only have once choice labeled "Cancel".

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More information The research on using site traffic in UI design has information on tracking aggregate site traffic to see if the site is being used as expected.

Navigation in Web applications

1. Introduction
2. Basic navigation
3. Losing users and losing work
4. Separating the browser and the application
5. Lack of context
6. Delays caused by network connections
7. Conclusion

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