Should Your Links Open in a New Window or Tab?

Since the beginning days of the Web, it’s been a common practice to code external links (links that lead to other web sites) so that they automatically open up in a new window or tab when clicked.  The mindset behind this was simple:  The window containing the original web site was preserved so that the visitor could easily return to it.

But as the years went by and web users begin to advance in their surfing skills, one thing became clear:  Web users wanted options.  And they wanted control over those options.  Even over minor things such as whether the links they click on open in a new window or in the same window.

Browser designers – the people who designed Internet Explorer, Firefox, etc. – recognized that fact and made it possible for web users to right click on a link and choose “open link in new window” or “open link in new tab.”  But they missed the one choice that many web users long for:  an “open link in same window” option.

Something seems to be missing. Where is the option for opening a link in the SAME window or tab?

The Case for the SAME Window or Tab

Sometimes web users want a link to open in the same window or tab because:

• They are finished with the web site they are currently on.
• They don’t want to clutter up their desktop with multiple browser windows or clutter their browser with open tabs.
• When a new window pops open unexpectedly, it annoys, confuses or startles them.
• Sometimes new windows open in the background and they aren’t even aware of it.  This is especially true for those who are new to the web or are at a beginner’s level.

The Case for a NEW Window or Tab

There is really one defining reason why web users want a link to open up in a new window or tab and that is:

• They can easily return to the original web site without having to navigate their way back to it.
  

Can You Make Everyone Happy?

The short answer is no, you can’t.  But you can implement some simple techniques that will help make your web site more user-friendly.  Let’s take a look at them.

3 Tips on Coding Links

1. Let the User Decide. Most people who want a link to open in a new tab or window will automatically right click the link and choose the option they desire.  Therefore, I suggest allowing external links (links that lead to other web sites) to open in a the SAME window or tab.  This gives the web site visitor control and freedom of choice.  And don’t worry.  If they liked your web site, they will find their way back. Web users are smart that way.
2. When Opening Up a New Window or Tab is a Better Option. There are times when it just makes sense to have a link open in a new window or tab.  For example, one web site that I maintain has small images that when clicked, a new window opens up displaying a larger version of the image.  I added an explanation under each image that states “Clicking the small image will result in a large image opening up in a new window or tab.”  While that may seem wordy, it gives the web visitor fair warning, and they know what to expect.

   I also believe it is acceptable to code links to your social media sites so that they open up in a new window or tab.  People often want to return to your web site or blog after they link up with you on Facebook or Twitter.

3. Give the User the Options. When linking to documents, such as PDF or Word files, it is very likely that the user intends to return to your web site after the document has opened.  Because of that, I believe it is acceptable to code these links so that they will open in a new window.  What I suggest doing is adding an explanation next to the link that informs the site visitor 3 things – 1) What kind of a file it is (or insert the PDF or Word icon) 2) That it will be opening up in a new window and 3) That they can right-click and download it rather than open it.

What it all boils down to is being sensitive to the web site visitor.  Let them have control over how they open links, or provide them with an explanation on how a link will open.  While there is no pleasing everyone, most web site visitors will appreciate the user-friendliness of your web site.

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