The Bottom Line
Information Architecture is one of the key processes in web design and development and if you’re new to the subject then Information Architecture: Blueprints for the Web written by Christine Wodtke is a great overview on IA and usability.
Pros
- Well written and easy to read, with its size ensuring it can be read in one sitting
- Covers a broad range of subjects such as wireframes, usability tests, heuristics and much more
- Provides a comprehensive set of steps on how to use IA to design and build websites
- It’s a great resource to have as an all in one reference guide on the subject
- Case studies, screen shots and diagrams are used well to illustrate complex concepts
Cons
- It better suits beginners then those experienced in the field
- In parts of the book the author is overly critical of accepted guidelines from usability experts
Description
- The first few chapters provide an overview on standard usability and IA concepts
- After the introduction the author covers IA techniques such as wireframes, storyboards, content inventories and much more
- In the final chapter, Wodtke, covers how IA is used today and how that is likely to change in the future
Guide Review - Book Review - Information Architecture: Blueprints for the Web
Wodtke has provided a great resource for those interested in learning more about website IA and how that fits in with usability and site design. It is a great foundation for novices with a broad range of subjects covered however for those with experience in the field this may not cover the detail you seek but is a great reference guide for key concepts in IA.