Header Widgets

Introduction

The header of your eDirectory website is the first element visitors encounter, setting the tone for their entire browsing experience. Recognizing the importance of this initial impression, eDirectory offers a selection of distinct header widgets, each designed to provide a unique aesthetic and functional approach. This article will guide you through the available header options and demonstrate how to effectively implement them on your site, including advanced customization features.

Understanding eDirectory's Header Options

eDirectory provides four primary header configurations, each catering to different design preferences and functional requirements:

1. Default Header:
   • A clean and minimalist header, typically featuring the logo and navigation menu. This option is ideal for a straightforward and uncluttered design.
2. Header With Contact Phone:
   • Includes a prominent display of your contact phone number alongside the logo and navigation. This is particularly useful for businesses that prioritize direct communication.
3. Navigation with Left Logo:
   • Positions the logo on the left side of the header, with the navigation menu aligned to the right. This layout is a common and visually balanced approach.
4. Navigation with Centered Logo:
   • Centers the logo within the header, with the navigation menu positioned below. This design creates a focal point on the logo and offers a modern aesthetic.

Implementing and Customizing Header Widgets: A Step-by-Step Guide

To modify or implement a header widget on your eDirectory website, follow these steps:

1. Access Site Manager: Log in to your eDirectory Site Manager account.
2. Navigate to Design: Click on the "Design" tab located in the left-hand navigation menu.
3. Open Page Editor: Select the "Page Editor" option.
4. Choose Page: Select any page on your website. (Note: Header modifications apply globally.)

5. Widget Management:
   • Header Exclusivity: Be aware that only one header widget can be active per page. To change the header, you must first remove the existing header widget.
   • Adding a Header: Click the "Add a Widget" button.

• Select Header: Choose the desired header widget from the available options.

• Configuration: Configure the following settings:
  • Logo Upload: Upload your website logo to display in the header.
  • Navigation Menu Management:
    • Add or remove pages from your directory, and link to external pages.

• Login Bar Labels: Edit the labels for the login bar elements. Default labels include: Dashboard, Profile, FAQ, Settings, Log Off, List With Us, Sign In, and More.
• Background Color: Choose between the directory's brand color (set in Colors & Fonts) or a plain white background.
• Transparent Header: Check the "Transparent Header" option to display a background image below the navigation menu. This setting is only applicable when the header is followed by specific widgets (slider, search box with slider, call to action, lead form, newsletter). The background color setting will be overridden.
• Sticky Menu: Check the "Sticky Menu" option to keep the navigation menu visible as users scroll down the page.

5. Save Changes:
   • Widget Save: Click "Save Changes" within the header widget configuration.
   • Page Save: Click "Save Changes" on the Page Editor to apply the overall page modifications.

Important Considerations:

• Global Application: Any header modifications made on one page will be automatically applied to all pages throughout your eDirectory website.
• Single Header Limitation: eDirectory pages are designed to accommodate only one header widget at a time. Therefore, replacing a header requires removing the existing widget first.

Benefits of Tailored Header Widgets:

• Enhanced Brand Representation: Upload your logo and customize the header's appearance to align with your brand's visual identity.
• Improved User Navigation: Manage the navigation menu and create a user-friendly browsing experience.
• Increased Communication: Display contact information prominently and customize login bar labels.
• Customized Aesthetics: Control the background color and transparency to achieve the desired look.
• Enhanced Usability: Implement a sticky menu for improved navigation on longer pages.

Conclusion

eDirectory's header widgets provide a powerful tool for shaping the initial impression of your website. By carefully selecting and configuring the appropriate header, and taking advantage of the robust customization options, you can enhance brand representation, improve user navigation, and create a visually engaging and user-friendly experience for your visitors. Remember that header changes are global, and that only one header can be used per page. By using these header widget tools, you can make your site look exactly how you envisioned.