Modular Menus

Original Design

Originally, selecting a menu parent item (1) opened a submenu with an “Overview” item (2) linking to the section landing page (Figure 1).

Annotated screenshot of main navigation menu with the Research menu item marked (1) and the expanded submenu marked (2) with links to Overview, Centers and Initiatives, and Topic Areas.
Figure 1: Original approach to menu parent items, controls, and submenus

The Change

With the new modular design, menu parent items (1) and submenu controls (2) are separate (Figure 2).

Annotated screenshot of site header showing the main navigation menu with the Research menu item marked (1) followed by the arrow icon submenu control marked (2).
Figure 2: New approach to menu parent items and submenu controls

Since the menu parent item (1) links directly to the section landing page, submenus (2) no longer need an “Overview” link (Figure 3).

Annotated screenshot of the main navigation menu with the Research menu item marked (1) and the expanded submenu marked (2) with links to Centers and Initiatives and Topic Areas.
Figure 3: New approach to submenus

Details

  • When: Implemented with the January 22, 2025 release
  • What’s affected: Main Navigation and Section Navigation menus
  • What’s changing: Previously, selecting a menu parent item (e.g., “Academics” or “Resources”) opened a submenu where users could select “Overview” to visit the section landing page. With this change, parent items and submenu controls are separate controls.
  • Why it’s changing: Site builders requested removal of the “Overview” link from submenus. We did user research to assess the impact of the change before moving the change into production. We will continue to refine the approach to improve usability and accessibility.
  • What you need to do: Nothing! The change will not affect website content or structure. Site visitors may notice a change in how they navigate the website.
  • Where to get help: Submit a ticket if you have questions or feedback!
See also: