Module 3: Checkpoint 1—Designing URLs
| Conformance: Mandatory |
Requirements
Agencies must design URLs to last.
Benefits of conformance
- A consistent, quality experience for users of the site.
- Increased site credibility and levels of user trust.
- Well designed URLs are more marketable and memorable.
Risks of non-conformance
- Users encounter site errors with increased frequency.
- Possible increase in offline channel requests for inexplicably removed information.
- Reduced site credibility and levels of user trust.
Implementation advice
Explanation
Thought should be given to longevity when designing URLs. Once published, a URL should be available forever, even if the resource associated with that URL is removed. (See Checkpoint 6 – Handling errors)
A number of general principles apply when making decisions on the creation of a new URL:
- URLs should be simple and easy to read and remember.
- All URLs should be designed with the view to ensuring persistence over a lengthy period of time.
- Avoid referring to temporary constructs such as organisational structure.
See the URL design guidelines for further information about how to meet this requirement.