The value of information architecture and navigation design
Once business and user requirements are understood and documented, it’s time to bring the two together. Information architecture defines how application functionalities and content are organized.
Navigation design ensures the interaction flow for the entire application is simple and intuitive. During this initial design phase, the focus is on the nature of the application content and functionality, as well as the relative priority of page contents.
Our process
55 Minutes has extensive experience translating complex requirements and content organizations into simple, user-centric applications. During this phase of the project we will:
- Organize content and functionalities
- We work with stakeholders to design the taxonomy and content organization structure to ensure users will be able to find what they want quickly. We group functionalities based on user capacities to ensure users will be able to perform their tasks easily.
- Design interaction flows
- We work with stakeholders and user representatives to design an application that flows as your business process does. We make sure the appropriate validation and backtracking capabilities are in place, and that nothing slows your users down. A visual site map or interaction design diagrams are produced to validate requirements.
- Design page contents
- We start to design each page of the application, focusing on individual content presentation and priority within the page. Mini-layouts of individual content areas help users visualize interactivity without the distraction of page layout. The page description document provides a context for the content and functionality, giving visual designers the information needed to create an effective layout.
Next: read about our user interface design services or contact us for more information.