Jump to main content

step 4: build and test the basic structure

admin area structure page

A useful tool within the site management area allows you to enter your navigation titles, layer by layer, until the entire structure is in place. As you complete each layer, so the pages are automatically titled and assigned navigation buttons. This allows you to quickly experiment and test concepts on the live website (which can be given a temporary address until finished). When you are happy with the structure you can then fill the pages with content and if you later change your mind, you can swap the pages about (you can also copy completed pages to use as a basis for others).

the importance of a good navigation structure

Having hundreds of pages at your disposal is all well and good as far as fitting everything in is concerned, but how are people going to know how to find a particular page? If you have a page buried deep within the site, there must be a clear and logical navigation path to it. For example, Buckmore Park has a conference centre which is promoted on its website. All the information about the centre is grouped under a top-level page entitled 'Conference Facilities', which then leads to buttons showing catering menus and suite details, each of which leads on to pages showing hire prices, specifications and pictures about each suite. Where navigation is concerned, the simpler the better.


text size: A A A A