14.2 Page auto-redirecting
New standards released
New standards were launched in March 2009 and replace the previous version, the New Zealand Government Web Standards 1.0. Note that, in order to ease transition to the new standards, version 1.0 (below) may still be used in web development until 31 September 2009. See Meeting the standards.
The Standard
14.2 Do not use mark-up (META or scripting) to automatically redirect pages. Instead, configure the server to perform redirects.
Guide to this standard
The need to introduce page redirects occasionally (i.e. pages being superseded etc.) is acknowledged.
If and when the need arises to do this, it should be done by configuring the appropriate server to do so.
This standard is in place, due to the inability of user agents to stop auto-redirect.
This standard covers the W3C WAI checkpoint 7.5 for NZ government agencies.
Rationale for this standard
It can be disruptive and frustrating for users if a page auto-redirects, as they can get disorientated with the site and feel that they are not in control of navigation within the site.
