What is the discipline of Information Architecture?

Information architecture is the process by which the content of a Web site is structured to make it easy for people to retrieve information. Ideally, the information architect starts this process early in the project while the client is finalizing their business needs and technology requirements. The information architect creates deliverables that contain content organization strategy, frameworks for page content, site navigation mechanisms, labeling schemes, search systems, and site maps. These deliverables compliment technical requirements gathering activities, and provide a strong foundation for visual design.

Why is it valuable?

If you take the time to structure the content and information of your site, before you jump into design or development, you will have a much easier time when it comes to working on your user interface and navigation. Your readers and users will also benefit from a good, well thought out IA. They will be able to find things easier on a site that is structured to fit their needs, they will spend less time looking and more time reading and using your site.

When developing a website's information architecture where and how is the strategic intent and information requirementss of the site identified?

The strategic intent is identified in the first step which involves meeting with all members of the organisation so everyone agrees on the contents and purpose of the site. The information requirements are identified in the second and third steps which involves defining who the users are and their goals and objectives and analysing the competition, and listing the content and functional requirements and defining how this content will be grouped and labeled.

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