Scipting is the most complex method of navigation, as it involves much more than plain HTML. The different types are:
Rollovers (Mouseovers)
I read an off-line survey regarding Javascript rollovers. The results of the survey showed that mouseovers not only add visual interest to a Web page but also improved click-through rates by approximately 30%, even for seasoned surfers.
There are several types of mouseovers. The most common technique switches an 'on' image with an 'off' image in the same location when the cursor travels over the 'off' image. Another effective technique is to replace a blank image with an 'on' graphic in location B when the mouse travels over location A. This is an excellent way to give visitors additional information about the destination of a link.
Layers Menu Scroll
Use a layers script to slide a series of menu items onto your page. Keep browser limitations in mind when using layers.
The one exampled here works in:
Netscape Navigator 4+ for all platforms,
Internet Explorer 4+ for Windows 32, and
Internet Explorer 5 for Macintosh
Pulldown Menu (Drop Lists, Menu Boxes)
Having access to a Javascript or CGI pulldown menu is almost as good as having a site map on every page. The menus are easy to assemble, don't take up much space, and provide a very effective form of navigation, allowing users to go directly to a category or even a page within a category.
Folder Menu Tree
This type of interface gives an in-depth view of various sections of a site. The folders, however, may not always fit in with a site's design. "Programmers are very comfortable with nested systems, where an instance of an object is stored in another instance of the same object. Humans, on the other hand, generally have a very difficult time with the idea. (...) In a file cabinet, you never see folders inside folders, Pendaflexes inside Pendaflexes or file drawers inside file drawers." (Alan Cooper, in 'About Face - The essentials of user interface design.')
Search
A working search engine can help visitors quickly locate information on large sites. The key word here, however, is 'working'. If you plan on adding search to your site, test it thoroughly and then, if possible, get a user group to test it, too.
