Being an information architect is hard. I think two of the biggest challenges to working as an IA are that we often work independently and every project is different. It’s hard to learn from others and getting experience takes time.
There are definitely things that each IA can learn from looking at the practice of others. When I read books and go to conferences about IA, I always get most value from practical stories and case studies. So I want to create a set of stories that enable IAs to jumpstart or deepen their experience – a sort of ‘reflective practice by proxy’. I want to arm people with a richer repertoire of experiences – alongside tools and techniques. But I need help.
This year I’m running a research project into how IAs work. I’ll be finding different ways to share the output from the research – and if you participate you’ll get more access to what I create. But first I have to do the research, so I’m looking for volunteers.
I need people with different levels of experience. Whether you’re at the start of your career or are very experienced, you can help. I want people who have ‘Information architect’ as a job title and those who just use an IA mindset or skillset to do their work. I also want to hear from people who no longer consider themselves IAs, those who have embraced another title or a broader toolset. If you do IA, at any stage of a project, I’d love to hear from you.
I’m going to use a range of research techniques. You’ll be able to get involved via polls, surveys, interviews and I’m hoping to run some remote diary studies to see how projects can unfold for IAs. Participation can be anonymous if you prefer. You can choose your level of involvement.
I’ll be doing things right – following the appropriate codes of conduct for research and getting your informed consent whenever I ask for participation. I will never spam you or pass on your details.
Can you help? Will you help?
Please take 30 seconds to join my list of potential participants.
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