Information Architect

Information architects interpret high-level requirements in order to design the overall user experience of an interactive media product.

The exact work involved can vary depending on the nature of individual projects, the size of the team, or the type of company.

The role often overlaps with those of designer and producer, especially where the information architect is working alone or in a very small team.

This is a multi-disciplinary role that requires understanding of content, technology, interaction design and usability.

The information architect analyses the product’s intended purpose, objectives, audiences and content in order to devise a solution - this will typically include organising content within the product; specifying navigation and functionality; designing the layout of user interfaces.

They must consider the product’s likely content; plan ways to structure it logically so that it is easy to find; devise intuitive user interfaces that will allow users to find the information they need, or carry out tasks, as quickly and easily as possible.

They usually document design decisions in the form of site maps, wire-frame diagrams and written specifications which may serve both as a brief for the Designer and as a blueprint for technical development.

They are often closely involved in prototyping and usability testing.

Salaries for newly-qualified staff can be between £18,000 and £23,000 a year. With chartered status this can rise to between £22,000 and £30,000.

Senior managers can earn £30,000 to £60,000 a year. Salaries may be higher in the private sector.

Most Information Architects will have at least a Bachelor’s Degree, often in a traditional arts or humanities subject.

However, because the interactive media industry is so young, and information architecture is a relatively new field, many have picked up the necessary skills through experience.

This tends to be valued more highly than specific qualifications, and being able to provide examples of previous interactive media work is essential.

Because the role requires combinations of creative and technical thinking, studying for a dual- or multi-subject degree – especially one that combines arts, humanities and science faculties – can be highly worthwhile.

Specialist degree courses in information architecture are also becoming available.