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Article
Examining the Performance and Preference of Embedded and Framed/Non-Framed Hyperlinks
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics (2005)
  • Michael L. Bernard, Wichita State University
  • Spring Hull, Wichita State University
  • Barbara S. Chaparro, Wichita State University
Abstract
This study examined the placement of hyperlinks in four locations on a web page for user performance and preference. The hyperlink placements consisted of (1) hyperlinks embedded (Embedded) within a document; (2) hyperlinks embedded within a document and placed adjacent to the left side and at the same height as the corresponding embedded hyperlinks (Left-Embedded) of the associative document; (3) hyperlinks placed at the top-left (Top-Left) of a document; and (4) hyperlinks placed within a vertical frame (Frame) to the left of a document. Participants using the Left-Embedded condition had faster search times than the Top-Left condition. Participants also perceived the Left-Embedded and Frame conditions as easier to navigate and to find information compared to the Top-Left condition. The Left-Embedded condition also was perceived as promoting higher levels of comprehension than the Top-Left condition. Overall, the Left-Embedded condition was most preferred and Top-Left condition was the least preferred. 
Keywords
  • website hyperlinks,
  • preference,
  • web page design,
  • hyperlink placement
Publication Date
February, 2005
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ergon.2004.04.015
Citation Information
Michael L. Bernard, Spring Hull and Barbara S. Chaparro. "Examining the Performance and Preference of Embedded and Framed/Non-Framed Hyperlinks" International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics Vol. 35 Iss. 2 (2005) p. 139 - 147 ISSN: 0169-8141
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/barbara-chaparro/39/