Related
Definition
The term 'Related' in content strategy refers to the association between different pieces of content, typically based on shared themes, topics, or user intent. This concept is crucial in user experience (UX) design, as it helps users discover additional information that may be pertinent to their current interests or needs. By strategically linking related content, designers can create a more cohesive and engaging user journey.
In practice, related content can manifest in various forms, such as recommended articles, suggested products, or related topics in a blog. When users encounter related content, they are often more inclined to explore further, which can lead to longer time spent on the site and increased satisfaction. This not only enhances the user experience but also contributes to the overall goals of content strategy, such as improving SEO and increasing conversion rates.
Effective use of related content requires a thoughtful approach to categorization and tagging. Content creators and strategists must consider the context in which users consume information and anticipate their potential interests. By analyzing user behavior and preferences, teams can better curate related content that aligns with user needs and expectations.
Expanded Definition
The concept of related content has evolved alongside digital media, with its origins rooted in traditional publishing where content was often categorized by subject or genre. As the internet expanded, the need for more dynamic and contextually relevant content became apparent. Modern content management systems and recommendation algorithms now allow for sophisticated methods of linking related items, tailoring the content experience to individual users.
Understanding the nuances of what constitutes 'related' is essential for creating effective content strategies. Factors such as user intent, engagement metrics, and contextual relevance play a significant role in determining which pieces of content should be linked together. This deeper understanding can lead to improved user retention and a more personalized user experience.
Key Activities
Conducting content audits to identify related content opportunities.
Utilizing user behavior analytics to inform content linking strategies.
Creating recommendation algorithms for personalized content delivery.
Developing tagging and categorization systems for content organization.
Testing and optimizing related content placements for enhanced engagement.
Benefits
Increased user engagement through relevant content recommendations.
Enhanced user satisfaction by providing a seamless navigation experience.
Improved SEO performance by creating interlinked content pathways.
Higher conversion rates through targeted content exposure.
Better understanding of user preferences and behavior through analytics.
Example
A popular e-commerce website utilizes a 'Related Products' section on each product page. When users view a specific item, they see suggestions for other products that are often bought together or complement the item. This approach not only helps users discover additional relevant products but also increases the likelihood of additional purchases, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Use Cases
Blog platforms recommending articles based on user reading history.
E-commerce sites displaying complementary products to encourage upselling.
News websites linking related articles to provide context and depth.
Educational platforms suggesting courses or materials based on user progress.
Social media networks showing related posts or users to follow.
Challenges & Limitations
Overloading users with too many related options can lead to decision fatigue.
Incorrectly categorized content may confuse users and diminish trust.
Maintaining up-to-date related links can be resource-intensive.
Algorithmic recommendations may lack the nuance of human curation.
Tools & Methods
Content Management Systems (CMS) for organizing and linking content.
User analytics tools for tracking engagement patterns.
SEO tools to optimize related content for search visibility.
A/B testing software to evaluate the effectiveness of related content strategies.
Recommendation engines for dynamically suggesting related items.
How to Cite "Related" - APA, MLA, and Chicago Citation Formats
UX Glossary. (2026, February 12, 2026). Related. UX Glossary. https://www.uxglossary.com/glossary/related
Note: Access date is automatically set to today. Update if needed when using the citation.