User Experience
Information Scent
Definition
Information scent refers to the cues users rely on to decide whether a piece of content or a link will glossaryLeadA lead is a potential customer who has shown interest in a product or service, typically by providing contact information or engaging with content.Open glossary term them to what they’re looking for. It is created through labels, headings, and glossaryContextThe surrounding conditions that shape behaviour and decisions.Open glossary term that signal glossaryFaceted NavigationFaceted navigation is a system that allows users to filter content across multiple attributes simultaneously, combining different criteria to refine results.Open glossary term.
In practice
Used to design glossaryNavigationHow users move around a website or product.Open glossary term, links, and content so users can quickly judge where to go next without needing to explore everything.
The reality
If the scent is weak or misleading, users won’t follow it - they’ll abandon the glossaryPain PointA specific problem or frustration users experience when trying to complete a task.Open glossary term instead.
Plain English
Clues that help users decide where to click next.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is information scent in UX?
Information scent is how users predict whether content or links will glossaryLeadA lead is a potential customer who has shown interest in a product or service, typically by providing contact information or engaging with content.Open glossary term to what they need.
Why is information scent important?
It helps users navigate efficiently without trial and error.
How do you improve information scent?
By using clear labels, meaningful headings, and relevant glossaryContextThe surrounding conditions that shape behaviour and decisions.Open glossary term.
What happens if information scent is poor?
Users struggle to find content and may abandon the experience.
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