Checklist item: The layout is clear, with content well organized and structured for scanning.
Guideline: Organize information at each level of the Web site so that it shows a clear and logical structure to typical users. Structure each content page to facilitate scanning: use clear, well-located headings; short phrases and sentences; and small readable paragraphs.
Designers should present information in a structure that reflects user needs and the site's goals. Information should be well-organized at the Web site level, page level, and paragraph or list level.
Good Web site and page design enables users to understand the nature of the site's organizational relationships and will support users in locating information efficiently. A clear, logical structure will reduce the chances of users becoming bored, disinterested, or frustrated.
Web sites that are optimized for scanning can help users find desired information. Users that scan generally read headings, but do not read full text prose--this results in users missing information when a page contains dense text.
Studies report that about 8 percent of users scan any new page. Only 16 percent read each word. Users spend about 12 percent of their time trying to locate desired information on a page.
To facilitate the finding of information, place important headings high in the center section of the page. Users tend to scan until they find something interesting and then they read. Designers should help users ignore large chucks of the page in a single glance.