Usability: Open New Windows, Go Home

Often clients ask us to force certain links to open in new windows. This may seem somewhat intuitive, especially for external links which might take users away from their site. But wait–let’s give our end users a little more credit!

Usability studies have proven that the technique of forcing new windows or tabs to open on certain links is a frustrating and confusing experience for users. While there is near universal understanding of the ‘Back’ button and browser controls, many users do not understand how to switch windows (switching tasks) or have developed a system of window/tab management that they don’t want foisted upon them by a web developer that thinks they know better.

Which is all to say, don’t use target=”_blank” or target=”_new”, developers!

Respect the user’s abilities to negotiate their own links, but give them a little help when it comes to finding their way home. Here’s a surprising study that reveals that many users don’t realize they can click on the logo to go home (a standard practice we employ). Incud e a ‘home’ link, and help them out a bit.