Navigation in SharePoint refers to the methods and structures used to help users locate content and navigate through sites and lists within a SharePoint environment. Effective navigation is crucial for enhancing user experience and ensuring that users can easily find the information they need.

Types of Navigation

• Global Navigation

  • The primary navigation menus that appear across all pages in a SharePoint site. Often includes links to key sections or sites within the SharePoint site collection.

• Current Navigation

  • Contextual navigation that is typically specific to the current site or page. It provides links to related pages or lists, making it easier to explore the content within the specific site.

• Structural Navigation

  • Based on the hierarchy of the SharePoint site. This can include links based on site collections, subsites, and lists.

• Metadata Navigation

  • A method that allows users to filter and find content using metadata associated with items in lists or libraries. This includes using facets and filters for enhanced search capabilities.

Configuring Navigation

• Site Settings

  • Navigation settings can be accessed through the Site Settings menu, allowing site administrators to customize Global and Current Navigation links.

• Managed Navigation

  • A flexible navigation system that allows for mapping terms from a term set in the SharePoint Term Store to create hierarchical navigation.

• Structural Navigation Settings

  • Users can choose to display subsites, pages, or specific list items in navigation by adjusting the settings in the navigation menus.

Best Practices for Navigation

• Keep navigation simple and intuitive.

• Use clear and descriptive labels for navigation links.

• Organize content logically to reduce the number of clicks required to access information.

• Regularly review and update navigation links to ensure they remain relevant.

• Implement responsive design to ensure navigation is user-friendly on all devices.

Effective navigation in SharePoint enhances user engagement and productivity by making it easier for users to access information. By configuring navigation elements properly and following best practices, organizations can create a robust and user-friendly navigation experience.