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Introduction to Information Architecture

Below is a list of introductory resources that will serve as a great starting point for anyone new to the field.

There are currently 51 introductory resources in the library.

Articles and Papers

Am I An Information Architect? (3/20/2007)
Subject: Education & Training, Information Architecture - Education & Training, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: Many people have asked themselves this question. We often find ourselves alone at the office wondering why we can’t fit into any specific department or, after so many evaluations, feel like we’re just not doing what it is that we really want to. The questions listed in this document may help you. Once you have completed the form we will recommend some steps that you can take to further your interests, find support and join a community of like-minded people.
Available Translations:
Español at iainstitute.org/es/documentos/Soy_un_AI.pdf
Nederlands at iainstitute.org/nl/translations/ben_ik_een_informatiearchitect.php

An Information Architect's Manifesto
by Peter Morville (1/30/2001)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Note: Original article in English
Available Translations:
Português at iainstitute.org/pt/translations/000166.html

Becoming an Information Architect
by Sacha Cohen (1999)
Subject: Information Architecture - Job Skills
Language: English
Abstract: An interview with Mattie Langenberg, principal of the Chicago-based Schema Studios, and Creative Director Michael Brooks about the field of information architecture and what it takes to succeed as an information architect. This is one of the first articles noted in the literature about what an Information Architect does. The original article is no longer available on Monster.com and we have been unable to locate Sacha Cohen or another version of this interview outside archive.org. Read for a fascinating look at a career alternative that was new in 1999.

Check It Twice: The B&A Staff Reveals the Way They Make Lists
by Staff Boxes and Arrows (1/16/2006)
Subject: Information Organization
Language: English
Abstract: Holiday lists, to-do lists, grocery lists. With the end of the year come the holidays, and holidays are usually a time for making lists. Take a look into the process (and obsessions) of list-making from our staff.
Note: Boxes and Arrows

Editorial: An Information Architect By Any Other Name
by Eric Reiss (1/2011)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: Is information architecture dead? No way! It ain’t even sick. Let me share some personal observations about our field.
Note: Cite as: Reiss, E. (2011). An Information Architect by any Other Name (Editorial). Journal of Information Architecture. Vol. 2, No. 2. [Available at http://journalofia.org/volume2/issue2/01-reiss/]
Available Translations:
Italiano at iainstitute.org/it/translations/001359.php

Facets in your Future
by Bob Doyle (6/8/2004)
Subject: Faceted Classification
Language: English
Abstract: A faceted alternative to fixed-hierarchy, single-taxonomy, directory-style websites.

Folksonomies - Cooperative Classification and Communication Through Shared Metadata
by Adam Mathes (12/2004)
Subject: Classification
Language: English
Abstract: An explanation of folksonomies, with examples from Flickr and del.icio.us.

Forgotten Forefather: Paul Otlet
by Alex Wright (11/10/2003)
Subject: Information Architecture - Theory
Language: English
Abstract: Meet the forgotten forefather of information architecture. The man who, in the 1930s, envisioned a system that would one day allow people to access an interlinked and annotated research database from great distances by means of an electric telescope connected through a telephone line, retrieving a facsimile image to be projected remotely on a flat screen.
Note: Wright, Alex (2003). Forgotten Forefather: Paul Otlet. Boxes and Arrows. Retrieved from http://www.boxesandarrows.com/view/forgotten_forefather _paul_otlet.

How to Make a Faceted Classification and Put It On the Web
by William Denton (3/28/2009)
Subject: Faceted Classification
Language: English
Abstract: Describes when to use faceted classification on web sites and provides instruction for creating a faceted classification system.
Also available at: iainstitute.org/translations/001191.php
Available Translations:
Deutsch at iainstitute.org/de/translations/wie_man_eine_facettenklassifikation_erstellt_und_diese_ins_web_bringt_teil_1_von_2.php
Nederlands at iainstitute.org/nl/translations/hoe_maak_je_een_facetclassificatie_en_hoe_plaats_je_haar_op_het_web_.php

Information Architecture 101: A crash course for the enterprise architect
by Thomas Myer (5/23/2006)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: IBM DeveloperWorks article on defining IA for Enterprise Architects. Almost everything you ever wanted to know about information architecture. What is information architecture? What roles do information architects play in the enterprise space? Are information architects content experts, usability experts, database administrators (DBAs), Extensible Markup Language (XML) analysts? Or all of the above? How can understanding the concepts behind information architecture help your enterprise project succeed? Take this crash course on information architecture to find out.

Information Architecture Glossary
by Kat Hagedorn (2000)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This glossary is intended to foster development of a shared vocabulary within the new and rapidly evolving field of information architecture. It should serve as a valuable reference for anyone involved with or interested in the design of information architectures for web sites, intranets and other information systems.
Note: Original translation is in English.
Available Translations:
Italiano at iainstitute.org/it/translations/001062.php

Information Architecture Tutorial
by John Shiple (11/9/1998)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This article is an introduction to the field of information architecture. Five lessons are given in goal definition, audiences and competitors, site content, site structure, and visual design.
Available Translations:
Italiano at iainstitute.org/it/translations/001112.php

Interview with Louis Rosenfeld and Peter Morville
by Scott Hill (2000)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: An O'Reilly interview with Peter Morville and Lou Rosenfeld about their book, Information Architecture for the World Wide Web, their work, and the field of information architecture.

Knowledge at Your Fingertips
by Arun Martin (4/2010)
Subject: Knowledge Management
Language: English
Abstract: If you ever wondered, What is a Knowledge Base? Read this article.

Optimizing Conversion Rates: It's All About Usability
by Frank Puscher (5/15/2009)
Subject: Business Context, E-commerce, Education & Training
Language: English
Abstract: In eCommerce usability improvements usually have a huge impact on conversion rates. However, usability doesn’t only mean better visual guide or better site hierarchy. It also means a better communication with potential customers using a professional, trustworthy design, delivering the right information at the right time and communicating with users instead of throwing ad-slogans at them.

In this article you’ll learn what to consider when preparing a perfect landing page for your product, how to focus user’s attention on the most important parts of your sites and also how you can use videos and user ratings to improve your conversion rates.

Shall We Dance?, Journal of IA
by Dorte Madsen (3/2009)
Subject: Information Architecture - Education & Training
Language: English
Abstract: Editorial. But where is the research in information architecture? (...) You may come across research involving information architecture or relevant for information architecture, but not necessarily written with a specific purpose of developing the field of information architecture, of adding to the body of knowledge about information architecture, developing concepts for information architecture, nor in general addressing the theoretical foundations of information architecture. Now, with a Journal of Information Architecture, we have a forum where we can publish what is central to the development of the field of information architecture.

Site Navigation: A Few Helpful Definitions
by Indi Young (2002)
Subject: Navigation
Language: English
Abstract: Provides some basic definitions surrounding site navigation that will help your team with building a shared vocabulary for more effective collaboration.

Sou Um Arquiteto De Informação? (3/20/2007)
Subject: Education & Training, Information Architecture - Education & Training, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Note: Original in English.

The Challenge of Dashboards and Portals
by Joe Lamantia (12/14/2006)
Subject: Business Strategy, Personalization & Customization, Portals
Language: English
Abstract: Can components come to the rescue for executive dashboards? Much like IKEA uses interchangeable islands, counters, and cupboards to create a custom kitchen, by Joe Lamantia shows how it is possible to use a modular approach for executive dashboards.
Note: Boxes and Arrows

The Role of Classification in Knowledge Representation and Discovery
by Barabara H. Kwasnik (7/1999)
Subject: Classification, Classification Systems, Organizational Theory
Language: English
Abstract: THE LINK BETWEEN CLASSIFICATION AND KNOWLEDGE is explored. Classification schemes have properties that enable the representation of entities and relationships in structures that reflect knowledge of the domain being classified. Examples are provided of the way in which knowledge and the classification process affect each other.
Note: Cited by Abe Crystal on AIfIA list.

Understanding Information Architecture Differently
by Nathaniel Davis (5/8/2012)
Subject: Information Architecture - Theory
Language: English
Abstract: The Big IA perspective is still evolving, as the creation of digital products and services reveals new gaps and challenges,while the narrow perspective on information architecture remains a highly under-researched, under-developed, and under-communicated subject domain that is as important today as it was when it originally surfaced in the early 1990s. People originally called the narrow perspective on information architecture little IA. Todays more politically correct term is classic IA. Id really like to call it just information architecture. Why? Simply for the fact that--before there was any need to produce wireframes; improve Web site planning, strategy,or tactics; or discuss platforms and channels--there was a need to address a unique concern within the new context that the Internet had created,for which there was no single source to which one could go for answers.

Usability for Technical Writers
by Arun Martin (4/2010)
Subject: User Centered Design
Language: English
Abstract: A review By Arun Martin of a session on Usability for Technical Writers at Huawei Technologies India Pvt. Ltd, Bangalore, on March 20, 2010. It was conducted by the User Research and Usability SIG of the STC India Chapter.

User Experience Deliverables
by Peter Morville (1/27/2009)
Subject: Expert Opinions, Information Architecture - Practices, Interaction Design
Language: English
Abstract: This article describes twenty user experience deliverables with links to relevant resources and examples. Clearly, these artifacts of the process are not the whole story. We must also think about the relationship between goals, methods, and documents. And yet, for many of us, deliverables are the coin of the realm and merit special attention.

User-centred redesign of the FaCS intranet
by Donna Maurer (6/2004)
Subject: Case Studies, Intranets & Extranets
Language: English
Abstract: The Department of Family and Community Services applied user-centred techniques in the redevelopment of their large Government intranet, and it serves as a useful model for other organisations looking to tackle the same issues.

We are All Information Architects: Interview with Eric Reiss at Krakow Pedigogical University
by Stanislaw Skorka (1/2008)
Subject: Information Architecture - General, Information Architecture - Job Skills
Language: English
Abstract: An interview with Eric Reiss about information architecture. Addresses the issue of its definition, how to develop as an IA professional, and what fields of knowledge and skills an information architect should have.
Note: Original article in Polish.
Available Translations:
Polish at www.wsp.krakow.pl/konspekt/30/index.php?i=023

What Is An Information Architect? (3/20/2007)
Subject: Education & Training, Information Architecture - Education & Training, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: The Information Architecture Institute is an international organization committed to advancing and promoting the practice of information architecture. We define information architecture as the art and science of organizing and labeling websites, intranets, online communities and software to support usability. As information proliferates exponentially, usability is becoming the critical success factor for websites and software applications. Good IA lays the necessary groundwork for an information system that makes sense to users.
Available Translations:
Español at iainstitute.org/es/documentos/Cual_es_un_AI.pdf
Nederlands at iainstitute.org/nl/translations/wat_is_informatiearchitectuur.php

Books

Beyond Book Indexing
by Diane Brenner, Marilyn Rowland (2000)
Subject: Indexing, Supplemental Navigation
Language: English
Abstract: How to get started in web indexing, with a back-of-the-book style A-Z index as a supplemental navigation tool.

Information Architecture for the World Wide Web
by Peter Morville, Lou Rosenfeld (2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This book introduces the user to the emerging field of information architecture. It teaches how to design web sites and intranets that support growth, management and ease of use.
Available Translations:
Japanese at www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/487311134X/ia-22/
Romanian at iainstitute.org/translations/Definind-Arhitectura-Informatiei-2000-ro.html

Information Architecture for the WWW, 2nd ed.
by Peter Morville, Lou Rosenfeld (8/2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This book introduces the user to the emerging field of information architecture. It teaches how to design web sites and intranets that support growth, management and ease of use.
Note: Original English Source
Also available at: oreilly.com/catalog/9780596000356/
Available Translations:
Español at iainstitute.org/es/translations/arquitectura_de_la_informacion_para_la_red_capitulo_1.php
Italiano at iainstitute.org/translations/morville-rosenfeld_capitolo1.pdf

Information Architecture: Blueprints for the Web
by Christina Wodtke (2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - General, Process & Techniques, User Centered Design
Language: English
Abstract: This book introduces the core concepts of information architecture: organizing web site content for findability, designing pleasant web site interactions, and creating an easy to use interface. This book aims to teach the information architecture skills necessary to avoid making costly mistakes. It is intended for everyone that works with information architecture including designers, programmers, and project managers.

Pervasive Information Architecture: Designing Cross-Channel User Experiences
by Andrea Resmini, Luca Rosati (4/2011)
Subject: Experience Design, Information Architecture - Practices, Standards & Guidelines
Language: English
Abstract: As physical and digital interactions intertwine, new challenges for digital product designers and developers, as well as, industrial designers and architects are materializing. While well versed in designing navigation, organization, and labelling of websites and software, professionals are faced the crucial challenge of how to apply these techniques to information systems that cross communication channels that link the digital world to the physical world.
Note: Resmini, Andrea and Luca Rosati. Pervasive Information Architecture: Designing Cross-Channel User Experiences. burlington: Morgan Kaufmann, 2011. Print.
Also available at: www.amazon.com/dp/0123820944/

The Elements of User Experience
by Jesse James Garrett (2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - General, User Centered Design, Visual Design
Language: English
Abstract: The Elements of User Experience cuts through the complexity of user-centered design for the Web with clear explanations and vivid illustrations that focus on ideas rather than tools or techniques. Jesse James Garrett gives readers the big picture of Web user experience development, from strategy and requirements to information architecture and visual design. This accessible introduction helps any Web development team, large or small, to create a successful user experience.

Presentations and Podcasts

Behind the Scenes: The Berlin IA Cocktail Hour
by Jan Jursa (9/2009)
Subject: Conferences & Meetings
Language: English
Abstract: We love Institute member Jan Jursas video on how to host an IA Cocktail Hour. Jan who cohosts the Berlin IA Cocktail Hour with Sabine Stoessel, interviews Peter Boersma of the Amsterdam IA Cocktail Hour on how to set up a local group, then walks you through planning and hosting a Berlin event, inlcuding tips, scenes from recent events and some very lovely imagery of Amsterdam canals and Berlin street scenes.

IA Network Guide
by Wolf Noeding (3/22/2007)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This guide is for 1. YOU, 2. people that are interested in the field of IA and 3. members of the IA Institute to answer some questions about... - Who's an IA? - What are local groups? - How do IAs network and collaborate? - What initiatives are currently available? - How can I join in the initiatives? - What's the workflow of the translation initiative for example? - How do existing Tools and Platforms support me in network and collaboration?

Information Architecture: A Brief Introduction
by Samantha Bailey (5/2004)
Subject: Conferences & Meetings, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: An introduction to the field of Information Architecture from Samantha Bailey
Also available at: iainstitute.org/tools/download/Bailey-IAIntro.pdf

Introduction to IA
by Donna Maurer (5/2004)
Subject: Conferences & Meetings, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: An introduction to Information Architecture by Donna Maurer.
Also available at: aifia.org/tools/download/Maurer-IAIntro.pdf

PowerPoint Introduction to Visual Vocabulary
by Jesse James Garrett (3/16/2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - Theory, Process & Techniques
Language: English
Abstract: This PowerPoint presentation provides a high-level overview of visual vocabularies and their use.
Note: This links to a Microsoft PowerPoint document.

The Information Architecture of Everyday Things
by Jesse James Garrett (3/17/2002)
Subject: Information Architecture - Theory, Information Science
Language: English
Abstract: A PowerPoint presentation on information architecture and information science as it relates to everyday things and the world around us.
Note: This links to a Microsoft PowerPoint document.

Understanding Information Architecture
by Peter Morville (6/27/2011)
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: An introduction to the field and practice of Information Architecture.

Why IA Matters
by Peter Morville (5/2004)
Subject: Conferences & Meetings, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: Why is IA Important?:
Cost of finding (time, frustration):
Cost of not finding (bad decisions, alternate channels):
Cost of construction (staff, technology, planning, bugs):
Cost of maintenance (content management, redesigns):
Cost of training (employees, turnover):
Value of education (related products, projects, people):
Value of brand (identity, reputation, trust):

Also available at: iainstitute.org/tools/download/Morville-WhyIaMatters.pdf

Tools

Introduction to IA Brochures
by Victor Lombardi, Dan Willis (11/27/2003)
Subject: Classics, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: Two brochures that help explain information architecture to business and technical people. A full color 6x8 inch version is suitable for printing as postcards, and an 8.5x11 inch black and white version can be printed on any printer. Both are covered by a creative commons license and can be modified to suit your needs.
Also available at: iainstitute.org/documents/tools/IAforBizAndTech_6x8.pdf

UX Health Check
by Austin Govella, Livia Labate (3/22/2009)
Subject: Business Context, Experience Design, Tools & Technology
Language: English
Abstract: The Health Check is technique for User Experience professionals to express the quality of a product or service’s experience and convey it in terms that are familiar to business stakeholders, creating a common ground for discussion and exploration.
Note: Presented at IA Summit 2009 Poster Session

Web Sites and Resources

A Visual Vocabulary for Describing Information Architecture and Interaction Design
by Jesse James Garrett (2002)
Subject: Process & Techniques
Language: English
Abstract: This document discusses the considerations in development of such diagrams, outlines a basic symbology for diagramming information architecture and interaction design concepts, and provides guidelines for the use of these elements.

Guide to Organizing, Marketing, Facilitating, UX Show and Tell Workshops (2010)
Subject: Conferences & Meetings, Guides & Collections, Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: A guide to organizing, marketing, and facilitating workshops to share user experience design documentation and deliverables.

IA Classics in Comic Book Form
by Dan Willis
Subject: Card Sorting, Personas, Site Blueprints
Language: English
Abstract: Illustrations are used in presenting classic IA tools such as sitepath diagramming, topic mapping, free listing, card sorting, and personas.
Note: This links to a PDF document.

IA Glossary
by Bob Doyle
Subject: Information Architecture - Education & Training
Language: English
Abstract: The Information Architecture Glossary defines terms useful in the practice of IA and related disciplines. This glossary is available for syndication under a Creative Commons license. Syndication information is available.

IBM Ease of Use Web design guidelines
Subject: Guides & Collections, User Centered Design, Web Design
Language: English
Abstract: The IBM Ease of Use Group's guidelines for following a user-centered design process and creating easy-to-use Web interfaces. The information is valuable for a range of designers from novices to the more experienced and covers such topics as planning, design, production, and maintenance.
Available Translations:
Japanese at www-6.ibm.com/jp/design/eou/3webdesi/index.html

The Elements of User Experience
by Jesse James Garrett
Subject: Experience Design
Language: English
Abstract: This one-page PDF attempts to impose order upon the chaotic array of terms and concepts currently being used to describe user experience development.
Note: This links to a PDF document.
Available Translations:
Polish at iainstitute.org/translations/001164.php

Usability Glossary
by Bob Goodman
Subject: User Testing
Language: English
Abstract: A glossary of some common terms and ideas from the usability profession.

What an Information Architect Does
by Jesse James Garrett
Subject: Information Architecture - General
Language: English
Abstract: This PDF document summarizes the results of a comparative analysis of IA job descriptions conducted in July 2000.
Note: This links to a PDF document. Original article is in English.
Available Translations:
Español at iainstitute.org/es/translations/lo_que_hace_un_arquitecto_de_informacion.php

Information Architecture Institute: Library