Intelligent design assists users in finding what they need, when they need it. An integral part of establishing this base is implementing the proper information architecture. This, in turn, has a large impact on the overall user experience of a website or application and is something that should be applied early on for it to be fully effective.
Here are four ways that effective information architecture can be applied to user experience design in order to maximise the benefits for the user.
1. Define Product Goals
What is it that your users expect from your web service or application? This is something that needs to be asked before the process of design and development actually begins and from there, the product goals can be defined. Every part of this process should be governed by the product strategy to ensure that each element of the design and development speaks the same language to the user.
2. Understand Your Users
Properly implemented information architecture works because it provides a level of satisfaction for users. In order to know what satisfies them, you need to conduct the appropriate research that will give you answers. From this feedback, design teams can define solutions that will work for the largest percentage of users.
3. Outline The Navigation Plan
Navigation speaks to the way that users navigate through a website or application and its content. If it’s intelligently put together, it’s a seamless approach for the user that doesn’t require much thought. Navigation and information architecture work together to provide this continuous, flowing experience, so one cannot be considered without the other.
4. Implement A Sound Visual Hierarchy
The visual hierarchy speaks to the placement of pages and information in a way that benefits their relevance and importance. This prioritises content that is most relevant to the user using elements of design and positioning. Allowing certain aspects of the website or application to champion the experience can help you dictate the essential flow and purpose of the platform.
Well thought out information architecture forms the foundation of really efficient UX, which gives the user the impression that the product or service is of great quality and is worth the time and effort taken to purchase it.
Contact Interact RDT today to find out how we can help you help your users with an intelligent and properly planned information architecture that delivers optimal efficiency.