In web design, signposting refers to the use of clear visual cues that guide users through a website. Think of it as creating a map for visitors, helping them find the information they need without frustration.

Strong signposting makes a website easier to navigate, improves user experience, and keeps visitors engaged longer.

Good signposting doesn't rely on just adding buttons or links. Instead, it's about using smart design choices, like layout, color, typography, and spacing, to create a path that users can follow intuitively.

From the main navigation bar to subtle elements like breadcrumbs, effective signposting is critical in helping visitors move through your site confidently.

"A well-designed website shows users the way to exactly where they need to be with little or no friction." – Elwyn Davies

Why Is Signposting Important in Web Design?

Signposting reduces friction. When users can easily find what they're looking for, they're more likely to stay on your site, complete an action, and return in the future. Poor signposting leads to frustration, causing visitors to leave and seek out other options.

A key goal of signposting is to simplify decision-making. By clearly marking important sections and pages, you make it easier for users to focus on their goals. This could be as simple as adding a prominent call-to-action button or using contrasting colors to highlight key areas.

Consistency in your design choices helps users know where to go without guessing.

Consistency is key…

A Squarespace wireframe of 2-column website signposts - squareforge.net

Examples of Effective Signposting

Signposting can be achieved through several techniques, such as:

Navigation Menus: Well-organized, easy-to-read menus are the backbone of good signposting. Prioritize key sections and make them accessible.
Breadcrumbs: A simple way to show users where they are and allow them to backtrack with ease.
Buttons and CTAs: A strong, clear call-to-action button helps guide users to their next step. Make sure these buttons stand out visually.
Headings and Subheadings: Clear headings break up content and make it easier to scan for relevant information.
Footer Links: Often overlooked, a well-structured footer can provide a helpful backup for users who reach the end of the page.

How to Improve Signposting on Your Website

Put yourself in the shoes of a first-time visitor.

Can you find key information quickly?

Are important pages easy to locate?

If you click around aimlessly, your site's signposting could do with a boost.

Start by improving the hierarchy of information. Make the most important actions or pages stand out visually. This might mean simplifying your navigation menu, adding clear CTAs, or decluttering your layout. Even small improvements to signposting can lead to better user engagement.

Using Signposting Effectively in Squarespace

Thanks to the platform's design tools, creating clear signposts for your users on Squarespace is simple and versatile.

One of the most basic but powerful ways to guide users is through text links. By adding text links, you can easily direct users to important pages or sections, allowing for a smooth and intuitive experience. These links can be used within paragraphs or lists, helping visitors navigate without even realizing they’re being guided.

Another valuable tool in Squarespace is the ability to style buttons. Buttons provide a more prominent signpost for key actions, like contacting your business, purchasing, or learning more about a service. Squarespace allows you to easily customize buttons' size, colour, and style, ensuring they stand out on the page and catch the user's attention.

Signposting isn’t limited to text or buttons. You can also add links to images, which act as highly visual cues, encouraging users to explore further. For example, linking a featured product image directly to a product page is a subtle yet effective way of guiding users. This technique works particularly well for portfolios or service-based businesses, where showcasing work is key.

Squarespace’s design flexibility also extends to grid galleries and slideshows, which can be used as signposts in more creative ways. Grid galleries can display several images or pieces of content that link to different sections of your site, offering users multiple paths to explore. Conversely, slideshows can serve as both visual interest and a navigation tool, gently guiding users through your content with clear transitions.

Give your Squarespace Website a Design Boost with Square Forge

For those looking to streamline the process, we have over 300 ready-made Squarespace section templates available at squareforge.net, from which designers can draw inspiration and copy for free.

Takeaway Notes:

Signposting: Clear visual cues that help users navigate your site.
Why It Works: It simplifies navigation, reducing frustration and improving user experience.
Key Techniques: Use navigation menus, breadcrumbs, CTAs, headings, and footer links to provide clear paths for users.

Jargon Buster

Signposting: Design elements that guide users through your site, helping them find what they need easily.
Breadcrumbs: A visual trail that shows users their location on a website and allows them to backtrack if necessary.
Call to Action (CTA): A button or link prompting users to take a specific action, such as "Sign Up" or "Learn More."
Navigation Menu: The primary list of links (typically at the top of the page) that helps users move between key sections of the site.

Wrapping Up

Effective signposting is crucial in web design. It helps users navigate with ease, find the information they need, and engage with your content. By using clear visual cues such as navigation menus, CTAs, and breadcrumbs, you can improve the user experience and keep visitors on the right path.

Signposting: The Key to Guiding Your Users Through Your Website