[Web4lib] Academic Library Information Architecture

[Adelle Frank]

Hi, Chris:

This may go without saying, but I'm going to say it anyway (must be the OCD
typing).  I think it would make the most sense to have a logical
architecture for the folder/directory structure (so that it's easier to
analyze usage, and easier to expand in the future).  This could be a
combination of task-oriented and content-type (such as a subdirectory
specifically to contain databases). Regardless, it should be the foundation
of your site organization, so that each piece of content has one specific
place to live.

In my humble opinion, audience navigation is important, but should be
supplemental (since much of your content will be relevant to multiple
audiences).

Just my 2 cents,

Adelle Frank
Emory College
http://adellefrank.com

On Thu, Nov 25, 2010 at 12:00 PM, <web4lib-request at webjunction.org> wrote:
>
> ------------------------------
> Date: Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:24:09 -0600
> From: c <cbpurcell at gmail.com>
> Subject: [Web4lib] Academic Library Information Architecture
> To: web4lib <web4lib at webjunction.org>
> Message-ID:
>        <AANLkTinwfGtaqH0JDAp7Npvf1-R-pLGVjad++_fiukE3 at mail.gmail.com<AANLkTinwfGtaqH0JDAp7Npvf1-R-pLGVjad%2B%2B_fiukE3 at mail.gmail.com>
> >
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
>
> My library is gearing up to redesign our library sites and in preparation
> for that I am trying to gather information on different ways that libraries
> choose to organize their content from an Information Architecture/
> hierarchical standpoint.
>
> Most library sites seem to approach IA from either a community/user group
> based mindset, or a task oriented approach.
>
> Task oriented sites seem to focus on what are the overarching tasks for
> library users and structure their information below those tasks.  These
> sites tend to present primary choices of  finding materials, deeper
> research
> and services & collections.
>
> The community/user group approach initially breaks up information based on
> which group it is relevant to. It presents visitors with options of dealing
> with content aimed at Graduate Student, Undergraduate, Faculty and Visitors
> and then largely provides a task oriented grouping of information that they
> feel is appropriate to the selected group.
>
> Both approaches commonly include an about us category and a category
> dealing
> with ways to get help and contact librarians.
>
> Are there other approaches out there? Has anyone come across any sites that
> have a different fundamental architecture to how they understand and
> structure the information and resources on their site?
>
> Thanks,
> Chris Purcell
>