Information Architecture & Design | Spring 2003

Contents | Description | Scope | Timeline | Roles | Expectations | IA Methods

Information Architecture Development Methods


Workflow
As IA is involved in a wide spectrum of knowledge and expertise, the fulfilling of the project relies greatly on the collective contribution of the team and how well the collaboration among team members. In addition, the project is designed to meet the information needs of our customers. It is indispensable to investigate users needs, expectation, and satisfaction throughout the design process. Therefore, both effective internal and external communication are very primary routine tasks.


Internal Communication

We intend to create a virtual communication space and a non-verbal communication protocol. Coupled with e-mail communication and a weekly group meeting, we will exchange ideas and transmit files seamlessly.

Online Communication

  • Apply an iTutorial Project Web space through an iSchool account. Use FTP to transmit files, including Web pages we design and all deliverables through this platform.

  • Convey ideas more easily through e-mailing and e-mail attachment within group.

Group Meetings

  • Brainstorm to solve problems.

  • Incorporate ideas from team members.

  • Supervise each other’s work.


External Communication
Communication with individuals outside of our group is crucial. We intend to document and specify all decisions that will be made toward the development of this project. These materials will be delivered in a package so that the site may be maintained according the work we have specified.

With Professor Turnbull

  • E-mail communication

  • Invite Dr. Turbull to join group meeting to inspect our progress.

  • Present the drafts of all deliverables and ask for feedback.

With intended customers

  • Post our e-mail address on the Web so users can keep in touch.

  • Web Survey: design questionnaire and post it on the Web to collect user needs, evaluation, and test accessibility

  • Update the questionnaire during different stage of the IA design.

  • Visit Specialists in knowledge management, information organization, web interface design, graphic design, and software engineering etc.

  • Focus group if time permits. Choose professors and students from different IA related fields to probe their views and visions on the project.