Standard: New Browser Windows
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Definitions
A new browser window is typically the same size as the original window. It usually contains information intended to stand on its own, as opposed to serving solely as a reference for the original window. It opens on top of the original browser window.
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Content requirements
- Avoid opening new browser windows.
- In some cases it may be appropriate to open a new browser window. if:
- your page links to a Web-based application (such as a pollution reduction calculator), or
- the external Web page you are linking to does not offer visitors the option to use the "back" button to return to your page
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Rationale
Web visitors find new browser windows annoying because the back button stops working. Some don't notice that a new window has opened, and if they are used to clicking on the back button, they may be confused by the fact that they can't back out (the back button is grayed out). Some also may not understand that they must close the new window to return to the original content. In addition, if a pop-up blocker on the visitor's PC prevents a new window from opening, the visitor may assume the link is broken. By default, some browsers prevent new windows from being opened.
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Related governance documents
EPA
Related Policies
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Non-EPA
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Full Metadata about this standard
Name New Browser Windows
Tracking number NT00000000
Type Standard
Required or Recommended Required
Effective date 09/28/2005
Date approved 09/28/2005
Category Scripts and Codes, Things to Avoid
Web Council review by 09/06/2008 (or earlier if deemed necessary by the Web Council)
Governing Policy Web Governance and Management (PDF) (4 pp, 339K, About PDF)
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