InformationArchitecture PortfolioModule 1 Resources
IA MAEd Thesis (208 pp).pdf
Bibliography (82 pp).pdf
Glossary (46 pp).pdf
Syllabus (10 pp).pdf
The IA Model (Diagram).pdf
Guidelines (292 pp).pdf
IA ReviewsWebsite ToolsAdobe Acrobat Reader
Safari Browser
Firefox BrowserEmail
Site Map
Online Information Architecture Tutorial
The IA Model (Modules 1-8)
Module 1: Design Research
Assisting Instructional Designers and Information Architects to Learn about
Information Architecture and Usability Testing;
Promoting Professionalism and Standardization of Information Architecture
Module 1: Design Research
Sections 1.1-1.15
1.1 Level for Module 1
1.2 Best Web Browsers to View Online IA Tutorial
1.3 Approximate Time for Module 1
1.4 What Computing Technology Resources Do You Need?
1.5 What is Covered in Module 1?
1.6 Introduction: Module 1—Getting Started!
1.7 Introduction: Review of The ADDIE Model
1.8 Why is Information Architecture Relevant to Instructional Design?
1.9 Introduction: Review of Information Architecture
1.10 What is The Creative Information Architecture Model?
1.11 Stories about Information Architects—1. Design Research
1.12 Resources for Module 1
1.13 Learning by Doing—Assignments for Module 1
1.14 Online Quiz—Module 1: 1. Design Research
1.15 Brief Overview—Module 2: 2. Concept Generation
1.1 Level for Module 1
Beginner to Intermediate Hello and welcome to this Online Information Architecture (IA) Tutorial. This course is designed primarily for Instructional Designers, Information Architects (see Figure 1 below), Project Managers, or any person desiring to learn more about The Creative Information Architecture Model (The IA Model).
Information Architects Brainstorming Together
Figure 1
We will explore the eight (8) steps of The IA Model, including different aspects of The IA Model (see Figure 2 and links below). We will cover IA nomenclature, IA documentation, and IA deliverables required for projects.
http://www.usability.gov/plan/index.html
http://www.w3.org/WAI/guid-tech.html
http://www.w3.org/WAI/intro/aria.php
The Creative Information Architecture Model—
The IA Model
Figure 2
While many critics may assert Information Architecture or navigational systems have no value, The IA Model has value for anyone working to design high-quality Websites or other digital design products.
This Online IA Tutorial helps to educate professionals who desire to know more about Information Architecture, navigational systems, and user-centered design.
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1.2 Best Web Browsers to View Online IA Tutorial
Safari or Firefox (best viewed in Firefox)If you do not have Safari, download: Safari browser.
If you do not have Firefox, download: Firefox browser.
Additional links for other items you may desire are included in the Syllabus.pdf.
Many of the documents for download in this tutorial require an Adobe PDF Reader to view PDF’s online. If you do not have a PDF reader on your computer, download: Adobe PDF Reader.
To learn more about what is required to do this tutorial, download and review Syllabus.pdf. It is also included on every Web page in Modules 1-8.
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1.3 Approximate Time for Module 1
1-3 hours or longerDo not worry about how much time it takes to do Modules 1-8. It is all about how much time you desire to invest in learning. Everyone has different schedules and other demands, so do feel you can take what you need and skip what you do not need.
It is not about how much time you spend online. It is about giving yourself time and space to learn at your own pace, not under any pressure. Many links are provided for online resources.
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1.4 What Computing Technology Resources Do You Need?
PC or MAC computer and screen High-speed Internet connection Web browser Adobe Acrobat Reader MS Word InDesign Photoshop ImageReady Illustrator Visio Review Syllabus.pdftop | to portfolio | Module 1 | Module 2
1.5 What is Covered in Module 1?
In Module 1, we learn about doing 1. Design Research as it relates to Information Architecture for Websites or other digital design products.
1. Design Research
The process whereby the Information Architects do research, writing specific case studies: interviewing stakeholders, end users, and doing a competitive analysis.
The Information Architects interview and observe end users to figure out how they intend to use a Website before it is designed, doing card sorting with participants or setting up focus groups to gather research for a design plan (in step 3 or 4 of The IA Model). The rationale for doing Information Architecture research prior to designing and building a Website is to figure out what end users need. It may save corporations money in the long run.
How do you research and develop Information Architecture for a Website?
The Information Architect does research by first doing a needs assessment or competitive analysis, using methods-of-design research and procedures.
These documents should include: specific research and a design plan, a competitive analysis, (in step 4 of The IA Model wire frame mockups, flow chart, schematics are done—but it is not too early to start thinking about other items for research), and supporting documentation.
The Information Architects consult closely with clients or corporations to determine what their needs will be prior to designing and implementing a Website. Who has to use all of these online products? The answer to that question is clear: human beings use Websites.
The Information Architects meet with clients or stakeholders to interviews subject matter experts—to get at what the real need is for a client’s business requirements and for end users. This means developing a viable design plan and solution prior to implementation of digital design products.
Understanding requirements for design plans are helpful to Instructional Designers that desire to produce high-quality Websites. In the long run, end users do benefit from user-centered design.
If the Website (design product) is structured and navigational systems developed, end users can more effectively use a Website and then concentrate on learning. The Information Architects use a variety of computer software programs to produce required documentation.
The Information Architects use Visio to do flow charts as well as Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) to draw wire frame mockups (Visio is a software program with extended capabilities more specific to drafting up extensive architectural drawings and blueprints; wire frame mockups are covered in step 4 of The IA Model).
The Information Architects might develop a few working prototypes using Photoshop, ImageReady, and Dreamweaver. Then experienced computer programmers do HTML code refinements. The Information Architect is primarily concerned with the conceptual design part-of-the-project, incorporating user-centered design into every design product.
Adobe Creative Suite (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adobe_Creative_Suite), Visio, and Inspiration are examples of computer software programs used by Information Architects to develop and produce Information Architecture documentation and Information Architecture design plan reports. It is an individual’s choice and decision to use computer software programs that best serve their particular professional goals.
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1.6 Introduction: Module 1—Getting Started!
Module 1 is about 1. Design Research.
That means learning about how to do research, exploring how to collect data, write design plans or reports. Other aspects to Information Architecture research include learning how to document your researched-based findings in reports for stakeholders, clients, and team members.
The reason design plans are written is to keep a record of requirements for building a Website. It is not really that complicated. Of course, since all projects have different demands and specific requirements, reports are written to meet the requirements of any given project.
Some reports are brief. Other reports are longer. It all depends on what your specific requirements are for a project. It also depends on what your client desires as well as what an end user needs.
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1.7 Introduction: Review of The ADDIE Model
Since this online tutorial is primarily for Instructional Designers to learn about Information Architecture, let us review The ADDIE Model.
Of course, if you do not know what The ADDIE Model is—do not worry about it (see Figure 3, instructional design history poster and annotated).
Instructional Design Historical Timeline (1900-2000)
Figure 3
Instructional Design History Timeline (1900-2000).pdfLet us explore The ADDIE Model.
The ADDIE Model is used by Instructional Designers for projects.
It has five (5) steps:
1. Analysis
2. Design
3. Development
4. Implementation
5. Evaluation
Step 1 of The IA Model is similar to step 1 in The ADDIE Model.
The Information Architects do in-depth analysis and research to make determinations about what is necessary and required for building a Website or other digital design products.
For additional information on The ADDIE Model, see these links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instructional_design
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADDIE_Model
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instructional_technologytop | to portfolio | Module 1 | Module 2
1.8 Why is Information Architecture Relevant to Instructional Design?
Introduction: Need for Information Architects
According to the authors, Morville & Rosenfeld (2006) of Information Architecture for the World Wide Web, a new field of work emerged back in 1994 with the advent of Internet industry entitled Information Architecture and commonly abbreviated as “IA.”
While Information Architecture is a relatively young profession, the professional practice of Information Architecture is continually developing and emerging.
That means thinking about user-centered design: designing navigational systems and search functions to help end users effectively use Websites. Organizing information to support wayfinding and usability in the digital landscape define what an Information Architect practitioner does in his practice.
This white paper does not include a complete discussion or description of every job task an Information Architect practitioner might do in his practice, but a brief discussion about this new and emerging profession (source: http://www.usability.gov/).
IA MAEd White Paper, The IA Model.pdfMany corporations realize that they have a need to make usability assessments for Websites, Intranets, interaction designs, and do research prior to implementation of any digital design products.
That means performing a needs assessment (commonly referred to as a competitive analysis). Doing Information Architecture research and implementing user-centered design principles into every design product provide meaningful online experiences for end users who use distance educational programs online or Websites to make purchases online.
Because end users should be able to use design products with ease, following an Information Architecture model is a way of ensuring that user-centered design is incorporated into design plans—in design products prior to implementation.
Another good reason to follow a model is that it helps to know where one is at in his project. Documentation enables team members to effectively communicate about projects, keeping track of milestones and deliverables.
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1.9 Introduction: Review of Information Architecture
What is Information Architecture?
Since Information Architecture is such a young profession, it is difficult to know exactly how to define what Information Architecture is or is not. The other problem with defining the professional practice of Information Architecture is that many universities or colleges do not offer any specialized degrees in Information Architecture, though.
During the last decade, Information Architecture is an emerging profession—a few universities currently offer Information Architecture or interaction design in graduate-level programs.
Per Dick & Carey, et al., The Systematic Design of Instruction (2005), regarding ISD Models, Information Architects or clients may not follow a model (similar to what Instructional Designers use, referring to The ADDIE Model or other ISD Models; see Figure 4 below).
The IA Model
Source: http://www.usability.gov/
Figure 4
Why should an Information Architect use The IA Model?
The answer to that question is—if Information Architecture is not implemented into all design products prior to building Websites or other design products—design products may be defective because end users cannot effectively use them (see Figure 4).
These design products may lack in structure, overall consistency, or search functionality. If usability testing is not done prior to final implementation of a Website, sites may lack in user-centered design or navigational systems may not be fully integrated and unusable (feel free to review these online learning resources below).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_architecture
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AJAX
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Visio
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adobe_Creative_Suite
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_architecture
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_Information_Security_Architecture
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_factors
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_design
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_system
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knowledge_visualization
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_architecture
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taxonomy
http://www.digital-web.com/articles/better_living_through_taxonomies/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_experience_design
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_indexing
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Website_architecture http://iainstitute.org/
Topics and Information Architects
http://www.digital-web.com/topics/information_architecture/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Saul_WurmanSteven Heitman, IA MAIA, IA MAEd
Sr Information Architect Specialist
Information Architecture Navigational Systems Usability Testing http://www.stevenheitman-ia.com/index.html IA MAEd White Paper, The IA Model.pdf IA MAEd The IA Model (Large Version).pdf IA MAIA Information Architecture, Heuristic Evaluations.pdf IA MAIA Information Architecture, Presentation, The NS Model.pdf IA MAIA Information Architecture, A Story about NavigationMy Information Architect Credentials—
Graduate-Level Degrees in Information Architecture
IA MAIA Thesis Report, Information Architecture.pdf IA MAEd Thesis Report, Information Architecture.pdftop | to portfolio | Module 1 | Module 2
1.10 What is The Creative Information Architecture Model?
The IA Model, like The ADDIE Model, provides Information Architects with a systematic approach for successfully completing projects from the inception to the final product. Using The IA Model provides a solid framework by which to work in the Information Architecture industry. It includes step-by-step instructions on the vocational skills required for working in the industry. Other skills required to work in this industry include having project management skills. Many Information Architects have developed skills from the Library Science and Information programs and/or Graphic Design programs. Because Information Architecture is a new and emerging field, many Universities are now starting to offer graduate-level programs specific to Information Architecture.
Brief Overview—
The IA Model
1. Design Research
Module 1 teaches learners about 1. Design Research and how it applies to Information Architecture. If you forgot, you are now in Module 1. A lot of design research involves doing extensive research for an IA Design Plan, which should match stakeholders business plan, goals, and objectives. Technical writing skills are necessary in order to jot down notes for an IA Design Plan, including being able to draft and write professional reports for projects.
Using The IA Model is a systematic approach to doing Information Architecture. However, it is only a guide; steps can be done out of order to accomplish specific project requirements. Following a systematic approach greatly increases user-centered design for digital design products prior to implementation.
2. Concept Generation
Module 2 teaches learners about 2. Concept Generation, which includes working together as a team and participating in brainstorming activities.
3. User Scenarios
Module 3 teaches learners about 3. User Scenarios, which are developed by Information Architects to show how an intended audience could use Websites. Websites are designed with end users in mind; Information Architects design Websites, using data from research—then Websites are specific to end users goals and objectives.
4. Wire Frame Mockups
Module 4 teaches learners about 4. Wire Frame Mockups, which are developed by Information Architects to show via drawings how a Web page will be designed. Other deliverables are done at this point in the project, including flow charts, interaction flow charts, and schematics. Card sorting sessions could be done prior to producing Information Architecture documentation. If user-centered design is the main objective, based solely on intended audiences, then one might consider doing card sorting first. Business plans have to be taken into account, including designing for intended audiences.
5. Prototyping
Module 5 teaches learners about 5. Prototyping (Rapid Prototyping). Experience prototypes can be developed quickly, as Web pages, or as paper prototypes; they can be used to collect data from end users.
6. Usability Testing
Module 6 teaches learners about 6. Usability Testing. Specific usability tests pertinent to projects are written to test Websites with goals and objectives for end users.
Learning resources:
Handbook of Usability Testing by Jeffrey Rubin, ISBN 978-0-470-18548-3 Usability Inspection Methods by Jakob Nielsen, ISBN 0-471-01877-5Instructional Designers are taught about doing Formative Evaluations, which includes doing usability testing. Oftentimes Websites are designed for intended audiences, but design flaws prevent end users from fully using these products efficiently.
7. Implementation
Module 7 teaches learners about 7. Implementation.
8. System Testing
Module 8 teaches learners about 8. System Testing. Modifications are made to Websites as necessary or required for improvements.
While Instructional Designers use The ADDIE Model or other ISD Models, Information Architects use The Creative Information Architecture Model (The IA Model).
The IA Model one might imagine and speak about, should be used, is cited from Wikipedia (this source is by no means comprehensive—and no tutorial replaces graduate-level degrees or vocational training). Additional information about The IA Model was developed by the author, Steven Heitman (in his Thesis Report). Using The IA Model requires having specific vocational skills pertinent to the Information Architecture industry. Other relevant skills in design, human factors, human-computer interaction, and design-related fields supplement skills.
The manual and guidelines on usability standards from the U.S. Government Printing Office (2006), Research-Based Web Design & Usability Guidelines, insinuate: The IA Model should be used in the Information Architecture profession. Since it helps to regulate the industry, it incorporates user-centered design into digital design products (The IA Model.pdf). (Source: http://www.usability.gov/).
Following a standardized systematic approach provides Information Architects and Instructional Designers with a better way to document their researched findings in detailed reports.
A systematic approach incorporates high-quality designs or well thought out conceptual ideas into design products. Another good reason for using The IA Model is that it gives one a way to more readily and easily communicate with stakeholders as well as with team members.
The IA Model provides a systematic approach for doing specific Information Architecture design research, and it helps in an iterative design process to communicate to others and do high-quality work.
If a good model and systematic approach is followed, then it provides a solid framework for every person on the team. In addition, using a model is an excellent way to communicate and document conceptual ideas. It enables researchers to do brainstorming and create excellent designs.
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1.11 Stories about Information Architects—1. Design Research
David’s IA Story—Needs Improvement
David just received an email from his boss. It made him kind of nervous—maybe a little scared. He thought, now what is wrong? Every time I get an email it means trouble. He went into see his boss, Mr. Bill Kennedy.
Bill stated, David, I have to speak to you about this current IA project you have been working on.
He went on to tell David: It appears that not enough IA research was done. Our client has been calling me up on the phone, saying they were not happy with the online prototype you have developed.
I am kind of disappointed with your performance because I thought you did a thorough job on your Information Architecture Design Plan Report. It appears you did not document all the requirements for this IA project. What are you going to do to fix it?
David, I need you to go back and look at your research and documentation. Can you please look into the matter? I need an accurate IA Design Plan before we can spend a tremendous amount of money on production and final implementation. Get it to me in the next day or so. Thank you, David.
Andel’s IA Story—Successful
His boss, Mr. Goodman, contacted him at work to set up a brief meeting. He went to his office, knowing he had done a good job on his Information Architecture Design Plan Report.
Of course, he thought, there is always room for improvement. Andel’s extensive training at a university to be an Information Architect really paid off in the long run. He entered Mr. Goodman’s office with great expectations and confidence, knowing he had done an excellent job.
Mr. Goodman, states: Good morning. How are you doing? Just wanted to let you know our client got back to me. The report is that all the managers and CEO are quite satisfied with the progress on this project.
They remarked that the research and documentation (even though it took longer and cost them extra billable hours) was well worth it. The project is working out smoothly. All the IA deliverables combined with the report really makes sense to them. It also enables them all to talk about requirements at their meetings—and to everyone on their team.
Andel, thank you for doing such a good job. I am going to give you a good raise in your salary because of your knowledge of Information Architecture, and knowing how to do IA research made a huge difference with regard to this project. Thank you, again, Andel for doing such a good job.
The client is really quite happy, knowing their Website is being designed using The IA Model. They know user-centered design has been incorporated at the onset. That means less money spent on additional changes when in production and final implementation.
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1.12 Resources for Module 1
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_architecture http://www.usability.gov/ http://www.usability.gov/plan/index.htmltop | to portfolio | Module 1 | Module 2
1.13 Learning by Doing—Assignments for Module 1
Review these links:
http://www.usability.gov/basics/
http://www.usability.gov/plan/
http://www.usability.gov/templates/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technical_writing
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphic_design Before You Write a Business Plan (Harvard University School of Law)Do a brief competitive analysis five to ten pages (5-10 pp), and write about your design research. Include review and commentary with three to six (3-6) screen shots from three (3) different Websites.
Do write about Information Architecture design concepts, as they relate to these Websites. Then document what you learn from your research in your report.
Later on you can add in other details about IA deliverables and requirements, including a task analysis, personas, user scenarios, flow charts, schematics, wire frame mockups, integrated navigational systems, working prototypes, other technical specifications, and usability testing specifications, etc.
You can also write about your own personal observations regarding usability issues, including your own ideas about how to modify your concepts for better user-centered design on your project.
Your report should include (use of headers and/or descriptors appropriately), incorporating best practices and user-centered design in all of your documents:
Information Architecture Design Plan Report
Title Page Table of Contents (TOC) 1.0 Section One 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Client Deliverables 1.3 Target Audience 1.4 Statement of Purpose 1.5 Main Objectives 1.6 Screen Shots from Three (3) Websites 1.7 How and Why They Relate to Your Project 1.8 Other Pieces of Research 1.9 Other Pertinent Details 1.10ConclusionAs you can imagine, every Information Architecture Design Plan Report is specific for your client’s requirements and project’s requirements. In other Modules, you will learn about other IA deliverables you may desire to include with your Report.
Doing this assignment also includes that you review three (3) other Websites. Take at least one to two (1-2) screen shots of each Website. You should choose Websites similar to the Website you desire to build.
That way you can get some good design ideas, and see what works well or does not work good on other Websites. All these details can be documented in your report. In some cases, IA Design Plans are 20-30 pp long. In other cases, IA Design Plans are 100-200 pp long or longer.
Examples
Review these examples of Information Architecture Design Plan Reports [perhaps a faster way than doing a Statement of Work Report (SOW)] form(s):
http://www.stevenheitman-ia.com/html/ia/ylc/html/ylc_4.html
http://www.stevenheitman-ia.com/html/ia/sfsu/html/sfsu_4.htmlTemplates
Title Page, TOC.doc Information Architecture Design Plan Report.doc Statement of Work (SOW) Report.doc http://www.stevenheitman-ia.com/html/site_map.htmlSee links above for you to download for writing up a brief Information Architecture Design Plan Report (5-10 pp), oftentimes referred to as the Statement of Work (SOW) Design Plan Report.
Alternatively you can use the SOW format, not all items for both reports are covered in Module 1: 1. Design Research. You may decide on what your project is—real or fictional. It is better if you do a real project meaningful to you and your professional goals.
Information Architecture and Usability—Online Communities
http://www.evolt.org/
http://www.digital-web.com/articles/the_evolt_org_community/
http://iainstitute.org/
http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~syverson/basicinfo/info-architecture.html/
http://www.hcibib.org/Assignments
Download Syllabus.pdf, Guidelines.pdf, other items as necessary. Do the IA design research. Write the Report in MS Word five to 10 page (5-10 pp). Write a brief report with two to three (2-3) paragraphs about IA. Email assignments to instructor (mailto: Steven Heitman). Do take Module 1: Online IA Tutorial quiz. Add in screen shots of other Websites from your research in Report. Get two or three (2-3) binders, tab dividers for your downloads and projects. Keep printed reports and documentation for each module in your binders.Then email your report to the instructor at mailto: Steven Heitman. If you have any concerns or problems, feel free to send brief emails to me. I am happy to answer your questions at any time (or set up a time to meet with me in my office—appointments by arrangement only). The instructor will then send you back constructive feedback and suggestions for improving your report.
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1.14 Online Quiz—Module 1: 1. Design Research
Online IA Tutorial Quiztop | to portfolio | Module 1 | Module 2
1.15 Brief Overview—Module 2: 2. Concept Generation
Module 2 is about: 2. Concept Generation.
After research has been completed, Information Architects and their team members all come together to participate in brainstorming activities, numerous discussions, deciding on the best way to move forward with their intended design products.
At this point in the process, an Information Architect thinks about producing numerous flow charts and various schematics to show the structure of a Website, developing draft concepts of wire frame mockups (all of that happens more or less in step 4—start thinking about them!).
It does not hurt to start drafting and drawing up ideas (quick and dirty), which is a way to brainstorm and think on paper by drawing out conceptual ideas, completing other pieces of relevant IA design research.
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Copyright ©—2007-2012.
All rights reserved.
Last updated: January 1, 2009
Steven Heitman, IA MAIA, IA MAEd
Sr Information Architect Specialist
Corporate Training Specialist
IA Design & Usability