So, today I logged into LinkedIn and I noticed they finally rolled out the new UI features to me. It’s a nice improvement over the first page, but it has some significant problems. The one I wanted to talk about in this blog post is the top navigation bar. It sticks to the top and it’s a whopping 78 pixels tall. Holy shit Batman! I don’t know who approved a 78px high nav bar, but they should have a talkin’ to.
My version for the navigation bar
The thing is they have too many redundant links and could be using icons where they are using text. Take a look at the modifications I’ve made to the navigation bar to give a better experience for the user.
1) Eliminated the top grey bar and relocated relevant information
2) Simplified the search bar and removed the pull down menu and advanced button
3) Removed “Connections” and “Inbox” and replaced them with icons
4) Connection icon (green plus) would have a drop down menu which allows you to access all information currently listed. *note, I would probably settle on something other than a plus for the icon
5) My name would now contain navigation to edit my profile
6) LinkedIn logo would have a menu which currently resides under the “Home” link
7) Added an Upgrade button
What are y’alls thoughts? Would you rather have a smaller, more condensed navigation bar? Or do you think the current setup is easier to use?
September 27, 2012 at 3:46 pm
Your version is definitely an improvement. It utilizes the space efficiently without creating confusion within the interface. Like the saying goes…”less is more”
September 27, 2012 at 3:50 pm
Thanks Peter. My version could definitely be improved upon as well. I think Twitter and Facebook do a pretty good job with their top bar.