|
Logical structure of a site can be represented by four main models: linear model, “grid”, “tree” (hierarchy) and “cobweb” models. Besides there are different combinations based on the main models. They permit to realize any logical structure of a website.
Strict linear structure of a site is used rarely enough because it permits site visitors to move only from the previous page to the next one but in no way otherwise. On the one hand, such representation of information considerably facilitates the process of interaction with the visitors: you can predict behavior of the visitors precisely enough already on the stage of website development. On the other hand, such organization of site structure gives the visitors no freedom of choice, and they might dislike it.
That is why linear structure of a site is used in practice with certain modifications such as omissions of certain pages, side branches. But excessive number of branches turns linear structure into hierarchical one.
Linear structure of a site is used for various online presentations, description of step-by-step processes. The main advantages of using this model of site organization is predictability of user's behavior on the site which permits to predict the actions of visitors already on the stage of website development.
Linear structure of sites is not suitable for websites with big amount of information. To represent big amounts of information in the most convenient way other models of logical structure are used, for instance, “grid”.
Such logical structure of sites as “grid” can be often met during organization of online shops. A grid is a bidirectional linear structure which has both horizontal and vertical interconnections between the pages.
For example, goods may be grouped in the catalog on an online shop in categories according to the kind (pants, jackets, dresses) and categories according to the price (cheap, middle-priced, expensive). Such structure permits visitors to view the goods according to both criteria (kind and price). Therefore visitors feel satisfied thanks to the freedom of choice you have given them.
Such logical structure of sites as “tree” is the most widespread model of site organization. “Tree” is a hierarchical structure which permits site visitors to manage the depth of site visit at their own will. Visitors can go to pages of the top hierarchical levels only or “go down” to the lower levels. Freedom of choice of the visitors depend on the “width of the tree”
If visitors have to make too much mouse clicks to achieve their ultimate aim hierarchical structure of sites may be too narrow in this case. Visitors are irritated by constant “clicking” which does not bring expected results.
At the same time, a too broad “treed” which is based on a very big number of options can make visitors spend too much time for studying all variants provided. It also leads to visitors' irritation, and they leave the site.
If logical structure of a site is tangled and incomprehensible, such model of site organization is usually called “cobweb”. Such site structure may occur as a result of wrong projecting of a site or deliberately – to ensure more expressive representation of information. For instance, articles about technical items may refer to the schemes of these items, requirements and standard specifications for manufacture of the items and a number of other documents. Such approach permits visitors to get as complete information as possible.
If the model of site organization is chosen properly and logical structure of a site corresponds to needs of visitors, usability and effectiveness of such site will be high. That is why site structure should be developed as thoroughly as possible.
TAGS
web design,
site structure,
logical structure of site,
linear site structure,
site organization model |
web design 
