Navigation

What is Navigation?

Navigation in UX/UI is how users move and find their way in a digital product interface — such as a website, app, or software system. Simply put, navigation is a map that helps users know where they are, where they can go next, and how to return to where they need.

In product design, navigation is not just buttons or menus. It includes all the components that help users understand the structure of the product and easily achieve their goals, such as: the main menu (navigation bar), breadcrumb, tabs, back/forward buttons, submenus (dropdowns, sidebars), and links within the content.

Why is navigation important?

If navigation is not clear, users will get lost or give up. A good design is when users always know:

• Where they are in the system.

• Where they can go from here.

• How to go back or change their actions.

According to Nielsen Norman Group, an effective navigation system needs:

• Consistency: Keep the position and behavior of navigation consistent across pages/screens.

• Predictability: Users can guess what happens after they click.

• Visibility: Navigation needs to be easy to see and recognize — not hidden too well.

• Clear feedback: When users navigate, the interface should let them know the current status (e.g., highlight the selected menu).

For example

Imagine you are designing an English learning app. If users want to review the lessons learned, they will look for the “Study History” section. If your navigation hides it in three layers of submenus, they will easily get discouraged. But if you place the “History” button right in the bottom menu bar (tab bar), the experience will be much clearer and more intuitive.

Suggestions from the design system:

• Material Design suggests using a bottom navigation bar with 3–5 main items.

• Apple HIG emphasizes clarity and familiarity in navigation.

• Figma also provides many ready-made navigation components for web/app/mobile.

In other words, navigation is the map and compass of the digital product. If designed well, users won’t have to think too much — as Steve Krug once said: “Don’t make me think.”