Hyperlink

Hyperlinks are used to navigate to another web page or to initiate a command or action.

When you want to provide access to other pages of the current application, or to provide links to external sources of content or to initiate an action.

The following guidelines should be followed when implementing hyperlinks:

• Hyperlinks must always be underlined.
• Except when appearing in the main content area, hyperlinks must be preceded by a greater than (">") symbol (see, for example, the hyperlinks exposed in the Header and Footer patterns).

The following guidelines come from the Microsoft UX Guide:

• Is the link used to navigate to another page, window, or Help topic; display a definition; initiate a command; or choose an option? If not, use another control.
• Would a command button be a better choice? Use a command button if:
  • The control initiates an immediate action, including displaying a window, and that command relates to the primary purpose of the window.
  • A window is displayed to gather input or making choices, even if for a secondary command.
  • The label is short, consisting of four or fewer words, thus avoiding the awkward appearance of long buttons.
  • The command is not inline.
  • The control appears within a group of other related command buttons.
  • The action is destructive or irreversible. Because users associate links with navigation (and the ability to back out), links aren't appropriate for commands with significant consequences.
  • Similarly, in a wizard or task flow, the command represents commitment. In such windows, command buttons suggest commitment whereas links suggest navigating to the next step.