Organize and structure information for clarity and discoverability. Design navigation systems, hierarchies, and mental models that match user needs.

Information Architecture Table of Contents [Overview]( overview) [When to Use]( when to use) [Quick Start]( quick start) [Reference Guides]( reference guides) [Best Practices]( best practices) Overview Information Architecture creates logical structures that help users find and understand information easily. When to Use Website or app redesign Large information spaces (documentation, e commerce) Navigation structure planning Taxonomy and categorization Search functionality design User journey mapping Quick Start Minimal working example: Reference Guides Detailed implementations in the references/ directory: Guide Contents [Card Sorting & Taxonomy](references/card sorting taxonomy.md) Card Sorting & Taxonomy [Sitemap & Navigation Structure](references/sitemap navigation structure.md) Sitemap & Navigation Structure [Search & Discovery](references/search discovery.md) Search & Discovery Best Practices ✅ DO Start with user research Conduct card sorting studies Use user mental models Keep hierarchy 3 levels deep max Use clear, simple labels Enable multiple ways to find content Test navigation with users Update based on usage data Document taxonomy Provide search functionality ❌ DON'T Impose organizational structure without research Use jargon or technical terms Make hierarchy too deep Bury important content Rely only on navigation (provide search) Change navigation frequently Create ambiguous labels Forget about edge cases Ignore accessibility Assume desktop only navigation

information-architecture