Information Architecture Flashcards
1
Q
Information Architecture
A
Structural design of shared information environments to make content findable, accessible and usable
2
Q
Use of mental models in IA
A
- Users rely on past experiences
- Implicit architectures: unintended relationships users infer
- Explicit architectures: intentional structures (e.g. nav bars)
3
Q
Designing for users
A
- Reduce cognitive load: filters, search bars, saved items
- Test methods: card sorting, scavenger hunts
4
Q
Organisation Schemes
A
- Hierarchical: Categories > subcategories
- Sequential: Step-by-step
- Matrix: Multiple access points (e.g. sort by price/colour)
- Alphabetical/Chronological: For predictable content (e.g. dictionaries, news)
5
Q
Tools used in IA
A
- Taxonomy: Metadata to classify content (e.g. “Shoes: Size 10, Blue, Summer Collection”)
- Sitemaps: Visualise page relationship
6
Q
IA Structure Types
A
- Flat: few levels (e.g. brochure sites)
- Deep: many levels (e.g. categories/subcategories)
- Poly-hierarchy: multiple parent categories
7
Q
IA Navigation Design
A
- Findability: users locate expected items
- Discoverability: users stumble on new features
- 7±2 menu: prioritise clarity over strict limits
- Breadcrumbs: show path (e.g. Home>Men>Shoes)
- Search: best for known items
- Navigation: for exploration (e.g. browsing categories)
8
Q
External factors
A
- Search Engine Optimisation: affects how users find your site
- Tech: mobile vs desktop
- Business Goals: Balance user needs with Keep Performance Indicator
9
Q
Key IA models
A
- Navigation: UI elements - “signage” (menu, links)
- Structure: Sitemap - “blueprint”
- Taxonomy: Metadata - “filing system” (tags)
10
Q
Structure vs Taxonomy
A
Structure = how pages relate, Taxonomy = how content is labelled/grouped
11
Q
How to reduce cognitive load
A
- Chunking: group related items
- Visual Hierarchy: Use Gestalt principles
- Filters/Search: Narrow options
12
Q
Pitfalls & Fixes
A
- Ambiguous Labels: “Solutions” -> rename to “Services”
- Overwhelming Choices: use progressive disclosure (show more options only when needed)
- Poor SEO: Optimise metadata to improve findability
