Information architecture

Information should be structured in websites, intranets and applications to reflect the way users think, i.e. their "mental model". A poor structure will confuse users, sending them to the wrong part of the site and frustrating them when they can't find what they want, eventually leading them to lose confidence in the site and the brand.

Information architecture (IA) is the process and the result of labeling, categorising and organising content and information on your website so that it is intuitive to your users. A good IA will help your users find the information they are looking for simply and easily.

Importance of user research

An important part of information architecture is knowing what your users want and how they think. User research gives you this understanding.

The process and deliverables

Following user research Peak Usability typically uses the following process to develop an intuitive information architecture:

• Conduct card sorting with users - to understand how users typically group and label information
• Develop first draft of information architecture to 2 levels and obtain client feedback
• Conduct usability testing using an electronic prototype of the site showing only the menu structure
• Meet with client and refine the information architecture
• Ideally retest and refine until no major problems are identified
• Optional mapping of the 3rd level information architecture and retest.

Deliverables typically include a graphical version of the information architecture or possibly a Word version in a table format.