Increasing link marker effectiveness for WWW and other hypermedia interfaces: An examination of end‐user preferences

Abstract

Hypermedia information systems, especially World Wide Web (WWW) browsers, enhance accessibility of information through networked data management services and direct manipulation user interface features. A major characteristic of these systems is the presentation of entities that signify pathways to additional information. These objects, called link markers, distinguish and designate objects (both textual and graphical) as link endpoints within the information network. It is proposed that the design, layout, and use of link markers within an interface can enhance or impede user performance. This article presents an analysis of link marker designs based on two studies. Recommendations are that, in general, link markers that employ color and bound objects are the most effective in communicating the existence and extent of links and are most preferred by users. However, user expertise and node content are found to play a significant role. In addition, users rate link markers that follow the design prescriptions put forward here as more effective. Finally, recommendations for hypermedia designers are discussed.