content from Information architect:

information architecture noun. 1. The business of organizing information. 2. Involves the organization, design and presentation of an information product to provide intuitive access and ease of use that meets the needs of the customer and of the end user. Information architecture typically comprises needs analysis, content identification and organization, navigational mapping, and physical layout. The typical product of information architecture is a blueprint which may take a variety of forms, such as a site map, outline, wireframes and so on. 3. (Informal) The familiar practice of architecture provides a metaphor that helps to explain information architecture. When you look at a building, you might not be aware of its architecture, especially if it’s a building you need to "use" immediately - for example, an airport terminal in an unfamiliar city. You need to find the ticket counter, or the rest rooms, or your gate, and you hope they are not too far apart, and you don’t want to retrace your steps. When the terminal was being designed, an architect considered all those needs and tried to arrange the space to meet them. His "deliverable" was a design and a blueprint that builders could follow. An information delivery system needs to be designed as well, or the people who need the information won’t be able to find it or use it.

Brassratgirl 06:12, 20 March 2006 (UTC)Reply