Intro to Headers in UI
First impressions are vital in any product design, and headers are often the first thing new users see. Headers contain important information and functionality for users, including the site’s branding information and usually primary navigation links.
Headers need to prominently stand out on the page, ensuring they're immediately recognized as the primary navigational and informational hub. However, it's equally important for headers to harmoniously integrate with the overall design of the site. This balance ensures that while headers catch attention, they don't overshadow or disrupt the content and aesthetic of the rest of the page.
In UI design, a header serves as the topmost section, providing a consistent and easily recognizable area across different
- Branding and identity: It often contains the logo or name of the application, website, or company, establishing a sense of
brand identity. - Navigation:
Headers typically includenavigation elements like menus orlinks , guiding users to various parts of the UI efficiently. - Accessibility and orientation: It helps users orient themselves within the application or website, often featuring search bars, user account access, or settings to enhance usability.
- Visual hierarchy: The header contributes to the overall visual hierarchy, separating different sections clearly and aiding in the organization of
content .
The color scheme of a
Here are some key considerations for choosing the header's color scheme:
- Use colors that reflect the brand's identity and values. The header often contains the
logo , and matching the color scheme with the logo enhances brand recognition. - Ensure high contrast between the header background and text or icons for readability.
- The header's colors should harmonize with the rest of the site's design, creating a cohesive look and feel.
- Choose colors that elicit the desired response from users, whether it's calm, trust, excitement, or energy.
The
Keep text labels short and to the point, allowing users to quickly grasp their meaning. Ample space should surround the
Design
On desktops, avoid an oversized header. Start with text sizes that are easy to read, then design the header to be just large enough to include necessary elements without excessive empty space. This keeps the header functional and aesthetically pleasing without wasting screen space or making the
Your
When designing a full-width header, include sufficient padding around the edges. This padding prevents elements like logos,
Logos in
The logo should be clickable, linking back to the homepage or main section. This enhances user
Pro Tip! Keep the logo position consistent between pages.
Context-specific elements that can be added to a
- Social media links: Direct
links to the brand's social media profiles for enhanced engagement and reach. - Primary CTA: A
button or link designed to prompt an immediate response or encourage users to take a specific action. - Contact information: Quick access to phone numbers, email addresses, or a contact form for easy communication in the form of a Contact button.
- Search bar: A tool enabling users to quickly find specific
content or products within the site or application. - Language selection: For multi-lingual sites, allowing users to switch between different language options.[3]
- User account access: Links or
icons for login, registration, or accessing user profiles. - Shopping cart icon: For e-commerce sites, providing direct access to users’ shopping carts.
- Notification icons: To alert users about new messages, updates, or other important information.
A sticky header is a type of header that remains fixed to the top of the screen as users scroll down a webpage. This means that the header is always visible, allowing easy access to
When designing a sticky header, keep it as compact as possible to avoid taking up too much screen space. This is especially critical on mobile devices where screen real estate is limited. Also, ensure that the header is visually distinct from the
References
- Sticky Headers: 5 Ways to Make Them Better | Nielsen Norman Group
- Centered Logos Hurt Website Navigation | Nielsen Norman Group