Information Architecture in IAKM

Information Architecture is approached from two perspectives: a broad approach and a narrow approach.

In the broad approach, all information systems, whether an organizational brochure, a conference presentation or an online public access catalog involve information architecture. The information architect designs and implements a specific system and interface or information space, based on organizational requirements and aesthetic and usability considerations in ways similar to the ways an architect deploys a building in physical space concentrating on aesthetic, functional and usability or user-experience goals.

In the narrow approach, the focus is on world wide web interfaces, the dominant form of access to information systems. Both approaches involve the use of graphic, multimedia, labeling, and information and/or navigation design to facilitate access to content. These tools are used to resolve information needs including making it easier for site visitors to seek the product they wish to purchase on an e-commerce site.

The IA offering encompasses the study of:
• Information Design
• Visual Communication Design for Information Architects
• Project Management and Deliverables
• Online Branding
• Content Management Systems
• Interaction and User Experience Design
• Metadata, Indexing, Thesauri and Ontologies
• Writing for the Non-Linear Media
• IA Successes and Failures: Best Practices and Lessons Learned
• Needs Analysis
• Usability Studies

Learn more about the curriculum for the master's on the IA Curriculum page. Find out more about career options for information architecture graduates on the IA Careers Page.

Additional Resources
To learn more about IA, prospective students can browse helpful websites and tutorials on the Resources page, explore relevant Professional Organizations and view a list of Potential Employers for IA graduates.