Quite a relic from the past, the dreaded “Home” button still prevails in websites hitting the net even today. I’m not sure who invented the idea but I’m fairly confident it has to do with a lack of understanding of what websites could eventually be. I’m certain that no half-brain marketer came up with this either.

What does it mean, “home”? It’s not like my house in any way. I don’t feel comfortable there, I don’t get to decorate it the way I want it and it doesn’t have any windows to open when it’s hot. Google doesn’t help, when asked to query “home” the first link spit back is to Home Depot. Although, I’d be open to the idea of them inventing the internet. If so, there’s a guy named Larry in aisle 32 that is very helpful and I think I may ask him. According to Wikipedia most homes “contain sanitary facilities and a means of preparing food”. Seriously, I don’t think we’re even close.

The connotation of “Home” on a website is probably something similar to “starting point”. Creators figure that visitors have to start somewhere on their website so why not call it “Home” and they can even return to the starting point at any time. Organizationally it makes sense to have a singular location to connect all points of information. Heck, even this blog insists on putting a “Home” page in it (and I’m not about to go in and re-code WordPress to undo it).

I’m not sold though, and I’ll give you two reasons why most websites don’t need a “Home” button:

First, there’s this totally new invention called a (write this down) “search box”. Seriously, if you haven’t checked it out try Googling it (giggling inside). Extremely large databases, like the ones housed at Amazon.com, Dictionary.com, Facebook, and so on, have a “search box” that allows you to type a word at any point during your experience to find the next piece of information you need. If your singular point of organization can start with a single box what would you need a “Home” button for?

Second, and closer to my heart, is proper messaging. Websites that aren’t complex should be crystal clear to visitors. Think of it more like a story when you’re creating the content. What do I want my reader to view first, second, third, etc? If done well, why on earth would someone have to go back to the “Home” page if they’ve received the content in a well organized format that meets their needs and expresses your message with clarity? OK, I’ll admit that it’s easier said than done. It should certainly be a goal for creators of new websites.

Let me just throw in a totally whacky idea, what if your website messaging was clear AND you had a search box? I know, that’s probably too much to ask but give it a thought. Perhaps consumers wouldn’t buy as much, perhaps they wouldn’t spend as much time on your site but what if they were exponentially more pleased with the overall experience. What if they became loyal visitors? No way, it’s time to go “Home”.

Sorry if I sound a little bitter. A recent client of mine insisted on a “Home” button and I’ve never understood what it meant. Since they’ve never made a website before I am pretty sure they don’t know what it means either. I’ll go ask Larry at Home Depot.

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