Information architecture

Information architecture is the art and science of structuring knowledge (technically data) to be published in a web, and defining user interactions (also see use case).

In the context of Web design, information architecture is the organization of information to aid in information retrieval. A common example of this is the categorization of similar information into sections of a website, with those sections displayed in pages. Information Architects create a variety of project deliverables including Site Architecture Maps and Wireframes (also known as Page Schematics).

An Information Architecture Design Document template might look something like this:

1. Goals
2. User Experience (with Appendix A: Competitive Site Analysis)
3. Site Content
   1. Content Groups by Labels
   2. Functional Requirements (with Appendix B: Content Inventory)
4. Site Structure
   1. Structure listing or summary
   2. Architectural graphical views (blueprints)
   3. Global and local navigation schemes (with and optional Appendix C: Site Structure Listing

Information Architecture may well be viewed as an umbrella phrase, given its close resemblance to Information Technology, and all the catch-phrases IT conjures up.

External links

• Web Design Reference - A huge mega-reference (over 3,000 links) of information and articles dedicated web design and development. The site advocates web standards, Information Architecture, usability, accessibility, and many related topics. It features a listserv and RSS feed for site updates.