Best Practices for Designing Headers

When creating a website or an app, it's important to consider how it will appear on mobile devices. A key part of this is using a responsive header, which adjusts to fit different screen sizes, ensuring that the header looks good and functions well whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

One effective feature for mobile-friendly headers is the hamburger menu. This is the icon with three horizontal lines that you often see in the corner of mobile screens. It's a popular choice because it's widely recognized by users as a menu button. When tapped, it reveals the navigation options.

The hamburger menu is especially handy on mobile devices because it takes up minimal screen space and is easy to reach with a thumb, making it convenient for one-handed use.

A complex or overly decorative typeface might appear visually appealing for a header, but it's not effective if users struggle to read it. Readability is key for ensuring that information is accessible and understandable to all users.^[1]

In selecting a typeface, it's important to consider how it aligns with the brand's voice and personality. The font should resonate with the brand's image and values, and also be appropriate for the specific product or service offered. For instance, a playful, whimsical font might be suitable for a children's app, while a more professional, clean typeface would be better for a business website.

Overloading a header with too much text can create confusion and disrupt the visual flow of a website or app. Common mistakes to avoid include cramming in too many navigation links, overloading it with large chunks of text, and including unnecessary details like lengthy descriptions or multiple calls to action.

Instead, focus on the basics — a clear and concise menu, a recognizable logo, and perhaps a search bar or a simple call to action. This approach helps users scan the header quickly and move on to the content they're interested in without feeling overwhelmed.

The CTA button in the header guides users towards the desired action you want them to take. To be effective, it needs to be prominently displayed so that it catches users' attention immediately. Here's how to optimize your CTA button:

• Placement: Position the CTA button in the top-right corner of the header. This ensures it is visible without scrolling, so users see it as soon as they land on the page.
• Visibility: Use contrasting colors to make the CTA button stand out and draw the eye.
• Message: Keep the button's message clear and concise, such as "Sign Up" or "Get Started." This tells users exactly what will happen when they click it.

The hamburger menu is a practical navigation choice, as it conserves screen space by neatly concealing secondary content.

Nevertheless, it's essential to avoid placing critical content solely behind the hamburger icon. Important and basic information and navigation options should always be visible and easily accessible, rather than tucked away. This ensures that users can quickly find and interact with vital features without the need to navigate through menus.

The choice between placing the hamburger menu in the top-right or top-left corner of a header depends on the platform and user behavior:

• Android Apps: For Android apps, it's best to place the hamburger menu on the top-left which aligns with Android user expectations and enhances usability.
• Multiplatform apps: Designing for multiple platforms may involve a trade-off. Placing the menu on the left suits left-to-right language users and their F-shaped reading pattern. However, since the hamburger menu often hides secondary features, placing it on the right can reserve the left side for more critical content. This position is also more accessible for right-handed users navigating with their thumb.
• iOS apps: In iOS app design, instead of a hamburger menu, consider using tab bars, navigation bars, or other iOS-specific elements for navigation and content organization.

Differentiating the header from the rest of the content is crucial for ensuring usability and a seamless user experience. A well-defined header helps users easily locate essential navigation elements, branding, and call-to-action buttons. To differentiate the header from the content, you can:

• Use a contrasting background color: This contrast makes the header noticeable and ensures that text and elements within it are readable. Avoid translucent headers as they can create low contrast, making content hard to read and potentially distracting users.
• Use a subtle shadow effect: This gives a sense of depth and, while less intense than a colored background, effectively differentiates the header from the rest of the content.
• Use a full-bleed divider: A horizontal line or band that spans the entire width can create a clean break between the header and the content.