After arguing that the use of `target=_blank` is not absolutely wrong, let's discuss in different scenarios how to reduce opening new windows. My awareness of this issue began when I saw Uncle Plod from Blue Classic advocating against random pop-up windows back in 2004.
Setting aside some illogical intentions, why do so many websites heavily rely on pop-up pages? Because designers are worried that users will get lost. Why do users get lost? Because the navigation system isn't good enough. Why isn't the navigation system good enough? Because there are too many disorganized product features. Why are there too many disorganized features? Because requirements weren't well managed. Why weren’t requirements well managed? Because the people who proposed the requirements didn’t think them through themselves.
To put it plainly, in many situations, it’s not just the designer's fault. Therefore, compromises are made and subpar solutions pile up to form a shoddy structural system. In fast-paced environments, it's normal that some issues can't be avoided, but designers should take responsibility for iterative, holistic planning and restructuring.
This approach ensures continuous improvement while addressing both user experience and systemic design flaws.