Links open always in the same window

At its heart, a link connects two web resources. It has two ends with an explicit direction – a source and a destination. Links are most often used to take a user from one web page to another or from one location in a page to another location in the same page.

Links that don't behave as expected undermine users' understanding of their own system. A link should be a simple hypertext reference that replaces the current page with new content. Users hate unwarranted pop-up windows. When they want the destination to appear in a new page, they can use their browser's "open in new window" command – assuming, of course, that the link is not a piece of code that interferes with the browser’s standard behavior.

Some people open new browser windows on the theory that it keeps users on their site. The strategy is self-defeating since it disables the back button which is the normal way users return to previous sites. Users often don't notice that a new window has opened, especially if they are using a small monitor where the windows are maximized to fill up the screen. So a user who tries to return to the origin will be confused by a grayed out Back button.

Accessibility requirement, WCAG Guideline 3.2 (Level A)

Predictable. Make Web pages appear and operate in predictable ways.

The corresponding advisory technique G200 describes in more detail the importance for people with disabilities and shows how to handle exceptions. UBS has defined the objective to reach all accessibility requirements of Level A and AA, that's why in general all links should open in the same window and exceptions should be handled very carefully and demand for a hint (e.g.: an icon with an accessible text:  'in new window').

Exceptions

Exceptions should only be used very sparingly

  1. A help-page with a step-by-step tutorial where a link is offered to the user, to open the application explained in parallel.
    Example: Help: Increasing your credit card limit
  2. A page on a secure Web site includes a link to an external page that is outside of the secure session. The link opens in a new window or tab since opening the link in the same window will break or destroy the secure session.
    Example: In eBanking the link to 'safe'.

It is recommended that when links are opened to a new window, there is advance warning (tick checkbox external link icon).

Please note

  • For a consistent navigation, these points have to be considered regarding links from the main navigation (vertical or left hand):
    • Links open always in the same window.
    • Links from the navigation should always lead to a page which belongs to the current site.
    • Links from the navigation should never lead to other domains or sites with a differing navigation. These links should sit in the content instead. 
    • Links from the navigation should never lead to documents (e.g.: PDF).
  • Avoid links to a UBS Intranet page
    • Please make sure to avoid adding links on ubs.com pointing to pages on our Intranet. These links provoke a broken link for visitors.
    • Why are broken links a no-go? Broken links produce a frustrating dead-end for users and result in poor usability. And when it comes to SEO, sites with broken links are rated lower by Google, since broken links are interpreted as a sign that the website is poorly maintained.
    • If it is really necessary to insert Intranet links, add this text next to the link: 
      "For UBS employees, accessible within UBS infrastructure only"

Crosslinks

Reference for publisher

AEM view

Selection in AEM

Please note

  • Internal links should always be relatively well maintained.
  • External links should be set to "https" whenever possible.