Hypertext Links vs. Pushbuttons
Hypertext links are one of the most prominent features of the web. With hypertext links users can jump from one piece of information to any other - within the same page, web site, computer, or even between locations anywhere in the web.
There is some overlap in the concepts of links and "classical" pushbuttons in common applications. Applications do not have links, but use pushbuttons for navigational purposes. When these are brought to the web, there may be confusion with respect to when to use hypertext links and when to use pushbuttons.
Hypertext Links
Use hypertext links in trees, tables, and texts, in order to display further information about the phrase that acts as link.
Underline key words only. Do not underline one or more complete lines.
Note: Users are more inclined to click hypertext links than pushbuttons (shown in usability test).
Example
In tables, links may be used to display details about an object.
Views
Hypertext links can also be used to access views:
Figure 1: A simple link list switches the different views (not functional)
See Views for more information about this application of hyperlinks and its alternatives.
Pushbuttons
Use pushbuttons for explicit functions that:
- Refer to a given object or
- Serve for navigational purposes
Source: SAP Interaction Design Guide for Internet Application Components