Information Architecture
Labelling
Plain English
Choosing clear names for things so users understand them.
Definition
Labelling is the practice of naming content, categories, and glossaryInterfaceAn interface is the point of interaction between a user and a system, where inputs are made and outputs are received. It can be visual, physical, or conversational.Open glossary term elements in a way that is clear and meaningful to users. It directly affects how users understand and navigate a product.
In practice
Used to define glossaryNavigationNavigation is the system of menus, links, and cues that lets people move through a product and reach what they need. It exposes the underlying structure, and is how most users experience that structure.Open glossary term labels, headings, and UI text that guide users through the experience.
In context
It is the cheapest fix in serviceInformation ArchitectureImprove navigation, content structure, and findability so users can understand where things are and how to move through them.Open service and the most commonly skipped. Renaming one menu item to the word users actually say can move glossaryFindabilityFindability is how easily users can locate the information or content they are looking for within a product or system. It depends on clear structure, intuitive navigation, and effective search, ensuring users can get to what they need without friction.Open glossary term more than a restructure.
The reality
Internal language rarely works - labels need to reflect how users think, not how teams talk.
Compared with
Labelling vs Content Design
Labelling names things: categories, buttons, sections. glossaryContent DesignContent design is the practice of creating and structuring content based on user needs, ensuring it is clear, useful, and usable within a specific context.Open glossary term shapes the whole of what the user reads and does. Labels are a small, high-glossaryTrafficTraffic refers to the number of users visiting a website, app, or digital product over a given period.Open glossary term subset where being understood matters more than being clever.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is labelling in UX?
Labelling is how content and elements are named within a product.
Why is labelling important?
It helps users understand and navigate content easily.
How do you create effective labels?
By using clear, familiar language that matches user expectations.
What happens if labels are unclear?
Users become confused and struggle to find information.
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