Information architecture is the art and science of structuring and organizing information on websites and intranets to support usability and findability. It involves defining the structure and taxonomy of content, designing navigation and labeling systems, and creating wireframes and prototypes. Key information architecture deliverables include page flow diagrams, interaction diagrams, wireframes, and mockups, which are used to define site structures, navigation, page relationships and flows between pages. Common tools used for creating information architecture include Visio, OmniGraffle, PowerPoint, and pencil and paper.

1. Information Architecture

2. Information The communication or reception of knowledge or intelligence Text Images Music Video

3. Architecture The art or science of building Design Structure Space Function

4. Building Blueprint Bedroom Sleeping Living Room Relaxing Den Books Kitchen Cooking Dining Eating Garage Storage

5. Website Blueprint Services Contact Products Main Staff About

6. Levels of Information Architecture The Internet Websites Site sections Section page groups Pages Page elements Paragraphs

7. Page Level Information Architecture HTML title and filename Description (metadata) Title on the page Subsections Paragraphs Sentences Words/Keywords (metadata)

8. IA Deliverables Page Flow Diagram Interaction diagram Flow chart Wireframe Mockup Paper Prototype

9. Page Flow Diagram Define navigation Define structure Visualize page relationships Define site scope

10. Horizontal format Used to describe interactive sites Services Contact Products Main Staff About

11. Horizontal format Used to describe interactive sites Services Contact Products Main Staff About History Mission

12. Vertical format Used to describe step by step flows Return Date Payment Departure Date Choose Flights From/To City Airline Reservation

13. Boxes (symbols) Decision External Process Output (print) Database Jump Page Page Page Page Page Stack Page Group Page Page Page

14. Double arrow points – two way link Single arrow point – one way link Dotted lines – anything different than a standard link Arrows (connectors)

15. Wire Frame Diagram Paper prototype Mockup Page script

16. Tools Visio OmniGraffle PowerPoint Pencil and Paper

17. Questions?

18. Web Head Processes