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Originally, "information architecture" was a specialized
field that included things like library cataloging and was
later expanded to include things like network storage and
database design. In recent years the name has been
glommed onto by web designers who think it sounds
impressive and can help them climb out of the $15/hr
hole they've fallen into since SW tools came out that
make it possible for many businesses to have their
websites built by students and interns.
As for how information architecture fits into technical
writing, the design of document templates and document
sets could be classified as "information architecture,"
because they define the form and structure of the
documents we produce. But trying to call technical
writers "information architects" at best makes us sound
pretentious and at worst limits us to what is only a
small portion of the total effort that goes into creating
documentation. Not to mention ticking off all those
folks in library science and network storage and
database design who really are information architects
and are already tired of web designers with delusions
of grandeur trying to coopt their titles.
Gene Kim-Eng
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jim Barrow" <vrfour -at- verizon -dot- net>
To: <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com>
Sent: Friday, December 21, 2007 2:16 PM
Subject: Re: Information Architect
> The original post had nothing to do with educating people.
Information Architects seem to have been around for a while.
I just wanted to know how the roles and responsibilities of
an IA matched up with that of a TW.
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