Links, File Names and Call to Action

UT Tyler Web Publishing Standards

Call-to-Action Links

A call to action link (CTA) instructs the audience with a brief but meaningful link that:

• provides information when read out of context
• explains what the link offers
• doesn't talk about mechanics
• is not a verb phrase

Please use a call-to-action link when we asking a visitor to click on a hyperlink. Call-to-action links are helpful with website structure, usability and accessibility.

Avoid URL links and language like "Click on this link" OR "Click Here" as they work against scannability and usability. For accessibility, links should be as descriptive as possible, limiting them to words that explain the content on the linked page.

Correct:

• View Course Catalog
• Explore UT Tyler Majors
• For more information visit Marketing and Communication
• Check the academic deadlines.
• Email the Web Team.

Incorrect:

• Incorrect: Click Here for Information
• Incorrect: Go to the online form at http://www.uttyler.edu/forms/onlineformpdf.php.
• Incorrect: View more information here: http://www.uttyler.edu/admissions/financialaid/index.php
• Incorrect: please check the academic deadlines HERE.

To continue with building accessible content for our users, please avoid using button graphics. If buttons are needed, please email the Web team with your request or use the snippet supplied within the CMS (OU Campus). 

According to W3C standards, all links and tabs are to open in the same window unless necessary (i.e. online secure form.) For example, PDF files should open in the SAME window. Open new windows and tabs ONLY when necessary.

Also see:

• Creating and Optimizing PDFs.
• Naming PDF Documents
• Updating Contact Information
• Best Practices
• Uploading Files
• Time, Date and Phone Number Style