User Navigation as the name suggests refers to Simplifying the Journey. In a Product Development Lifecycle it indicates design and implementation on how users move through an application, from one page to another. This generally include path, flow, structure and layout, ensuring that users can intuitively access and use its features.
When developing any product, understanding the principles of effective user navigation and flow is essential. From your introduction page/sign ups to customization and review, each step must be crafted with users in mind.
User Navigation is crutial for several reasons:
- It helps users easily understand usage of your product , find what they need, enhancing their overall experince and satisfaction
- Receiving an enjoyable experience, it helps retain the users
- Navigation steps are reduced, making the app easy to use, efficient and engaging for the users
- Users are bound to explore more features and functionalities when they are involved in the app
Now that you understand What and Why of User Navigation, lets explore When!
User Navigation should be designed during the initial stages of the product development and idea phase, particularly in the design and prototyping stages. It needs to be designed prior to UI design as –
- Define architecture as per user needs, behaviors and goals.
- It establishes the overall structure and flow of the application.
- It involves organizing content and determining the logical pathways users will follow.
- Clear User Navigation helps UI designers create interfaces that align with the navigation logic, ensuring consistency and coherence.
- Early prototypes focusing on navigation can be tested with users to gather feadback and make necessary adjustments before detailed UI design.