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Linking Guidelines
A new browser window should be opened for new applications, linking to external pages (not on the government of Manitoba server) or to pages that pop up a help area or quick explanation to help the users. This should be clearly identified as a pop-up window link prior to the link itself.
- Links to files within a directory structure should be made implicitly (relative links).
- Links pointing to documents outside your website should be made explicitly (absolute links). Examples of 'absolute' links should include the entire URL:
- http://(server)/(path)/filename.html
- http://www.gov.mb.ca/minister/index.html
- Links should use host names, not IP addresses.
- Do not link to under construction pages.
- If unsure, e-mail webeditor@gov.mb.ca or standards@gov.mb.ca for assistance.
Exit Page
Care must be taken before linking to an external site from departmental sites. External links may be viewed as endorsements and web co-ordinators need to use discretion before linking to an outside site, especially one for a commercial business. These external links should include the script for the government of Manitoba exit page. Any links to pages, applications and/or databases outside the government website must include either a new browser window or exit screen. Both must be accessible and usable to all.
- The coding required for this should be placed right before the URL.
English Version
French Version
Example: in HTML, a link to Yahoo would look like this:
<a href="http://www.gov.mb.ca/cgi-bin/exit.cgi?http://www.yahoo.com">Yahoo</a>
The above being the exit page which is inserted prior to the web address.
French url: <a href="http://www.gov.mb.ca/cgi-bin/exit.fr.cgiNote: Links to other websites must be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the link is still working and is going to the website intended.
Bookmarks/Anchors
It is important to provide shortcuts on lengthy pages. This can be accomplished by inserting 'bookmarks' or 'anchors'. This provides more experienced users with a faster means of getting to information. With a simple click, the user is quickly repositioned to the section of the page they wish to navigate.
