Challenge

The non-linear nature of the Web demands that designers and content producers be more precise and use fewer words to communicate the same ideas and complex instructions usually printed in linear form. This language restructuring can be challenging when writers approach work that is traditionally linear, because well-written linear documents rarely have miscellaneous words. However, striving to be less verbose and more concise on the Web has the advantages of retaining readers, improving comprehension, and increasing user satisfaction. Users who do not waste time reading useless information will more likely return for a second or third visit.

Solutions

To cut out language from a linear document and improve reading comprehension in the non-linear environment, try these four techniques: write objectively, outline, bullet information, and use headings. This is good practice for linear writing as well, but crucial when writing for the Web. Abstaining from useless information such as inappropriate persuasive marketing, trivial details, or overly complex verbiage improves a web site's readability. Outlining written material forces a designer to highlight important points of information. Using headings improves usability by highlighting the important concepts and allowing readers to quickly see the object of the paragraph below the heading, without spending time reading it. Bulleting is a technique that visually depicts lists in a format that is more comprehensible to Web readers who frequently skim for information and specific facts.

In Designing Web Usability, Jakob Nielsen discusses a study which proves the improved usability of information presented with objective language, concise text, and in a scannable layout. The first example below is the control condition, and is typical linear content that you might be challenged to present on the Web.

Example One:

Nebraska is filled with internationally recognized attractions that draw large crowds or people every year, without fail. In 1996, some of the most popular places were Fort Robinson State Park (355, 000 visitors), Scotts Bluff National Monument (132,166), Arbor Lodge State Historical Park & Museum (100,000), Carhenge (86,598), Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer (60,002), and Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park (28,446).

The second example was found to be 124% better in terms of usability than Example One.

Example Two:

In 1996, six of the most-visited places in Nebraska were:
· Fort Robinson State Park
· Scotts Bluff National Monument
· Arbor Lodge State Historical Park & Museum
· Carhenge
· Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer
· Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

(p.105)

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