Chapter 3: Information Architecture (IA) in UI / UX
3.1 Introduction Information Architecture (IA) is the structural framework that organizes, labels, and navigates information within digital systems such as websites, applications, and databases. A well-designed IA ensures that users can efficiently find the information they need, improving usability and accessibility. This chapter explores key components of IA, including sitemaps and wireframes, navigation structures, and strategies for organizing and labeling information effectively. 3.2 Sitemaps and Wireframes 3.2.1 Sitemaps A sitemap is a visual or text-based representation of a website’s structure, outlining how content is organized and interconnected. Sitemaps are crucial for: Planning Website Layouts : Providing a blueprint for site designers and developers. Improving User Experience (UX) : Helping users understand site navigation. Enhancing SEO (Search Engine Optimization) : Allowing search engines to crawl and index pages efficiently. Types of Sitemaps ...