HCI 590: Information Architecture

Autumn 2003

Major Project

Constructing and evaluating information structures

Part 1 Due Tuesday November 4 at class time

Part 2 Due Tuesday November 18 at class time

Information structures (Part 1)

Create at least 2 information structures that organize the content of your domain. The 2 structures should be created using different approaches. Approach variations could include the following:

• Card-sorting versus expert clustering
• Using hierarchies within a page versus across pages
• Icons versus text
• Global/local page layout versus comprehensive list of categories

Before you begin, you are strongly encouraged to discuss your domain and approaches with the instructor. The project may be completed with one other person. Groups of three are possible with the advise and consent of the instructor.

To complete part 1, you should provide the following:

• Descriptions of the methods you used to create your structures
• Descriptions of your structures, possibly including page examples
• Diagrams or lists that comprehensively show how your labels and content map on to pages

Evaluating the structures (Part 2)

With approximately a dozen representative tasks for your structure, evaluate both your structures using at least one quantitative measure. You should involve at least 8 participants for each structure.

To complete part 2, you should provide the following:

• Description of the method you used to evaluate your structures
• Summary of your results including statistical analysis
• Findings and recommendations

The statistical analysis should at least include confidence intervals.

Be prepared to discuss your results in class.