Evaluating Information Architecture

This white paper explores the why's, what's, and how's of evaluating a web site's information architecture. It aims to raise consciousness about the evaluation of IA and to provide: 1) Web site owners and other decision-makers with an understanding of evaluation issues; and 2) Information architects with a synthesis of evaluation techniques.

Toub, Steve. Argus Center (2000). Articles>Information Design>Assessment

How to Design a Web Table of Contents

There's something in our human nature that makes us want to dive into things, to browse, to dabble. We first try to program our VCRs without looking at the manual. We drive for awhile; if we get lost, we look at a map or ask directions (or not, depending on our gender).

Toub, Steve. WebTechniques (1999). Design>User Interface>Web Design

Navigating Through Stars: An Information Architecture Critique of Stars.com

The inconsistency and unpredictability of behavior in outer space must be incredibly disorienting. Without proper planning, information spaces can be bewildering as well. Good information architectures orient users, rather than confuse them. Done well, information architectures take users to the information they need in a way that meets their expectations. Done poorly, information architectures leave users frustrated and unable to find what they're looking for.

Toub, Steve and Lou Rosenfeld. WDVL (1998). Articles>Web Design>Information Design