User Experience and information architecture
How I approach a UX project depends on the team. For some projects I am the team. For other projects I am but a small part. I enjoy all phases of UX from the beginning stages through the design and writing stages.
1. User Research and Analysis: Includes analyzing information provided from UX team or if there is no UX team then I will do the research on users. The research will most likely result in card sorts and user personas.
2. Navigation and Hierarchy: creation for websites or applications or any interface where users need to access information.
3. Wireframing: I use Sketch to create wireframes for software and digital products.
4. Labeling: This encompasses the naming of sections, sub-sections. If there is a Content Strategist on board, then final decisions will defer to them.
5. Taxonomies and Metadata: This is where I decide other groupings or ways that a user might search based on their mental model. In a digital asset management system, I make sure to address alternative terms so that items can easily be found.
6. Content Modeling: I work with developers to ensure a smooth migration from the old to the new. Spreadsheets come in handy here, but there are great online tools as well now to ensure all content is accounted for. Content templates are also created.
The six main headings are courtesy of UX Booth.
Links to Information Architecture Projects:
- RV Nuccio & Associates: For the rebrand of the insurance broker’s website. 2016
- Wedsure: For the specialty insurance web application for brokers and customers to quote and buy insurance online. 2019
- Genection: For the genetic testing management web application for hospitals, labs, physicians, and patients. 2013
- Invivoscribe: For the rebrand of the molecular diagnostic company’s website. 2011
- La Jolla Institute: For the rebrand of the immunology research institute’s website. 2008