Information Architecture is the layout of a web site. Websites vary as some are simple ‘on-the-page’ information, whereas other sites may need the viewer to explore out further for more information. Below are definitions and an example of differant website layouts.
Flat; the Flat website layout consists of easy travelling throught that site. (ie. basic columns of information such as a Home, Index and Contact Us.) www.neopets.com
Index; a site where the viewer travels through the same site for all information. www.ebay.com
Daisy; where the pattern of flow is happening. For example a hotmail or yahoo account information always goes back to the start page. www.yahoomail.com
Strict Hierarchical; where information is repeatively spread throughtout the site keeping the viewer interested. www.hoyts.com
Multi-Dimensional hierarchical; when the site is designed for browsing to similar or contains useful links which opens a new browser. www.livejournal.com
Search; websites designed to aid the viewer to search for further information www.google.com
Information Architecture101 a good forum for information on the above.
