Information Architecture
Information architecture is the science of figuring out what you want your site to do and then constructing a blueprint before you call designers and programmers. It's more important than you might think. It determines true User Experience
First Information Architect defines your site's goals, collecting owners' ideas and opinions and assembling them in a coherent, weighted order of importance. During this process all is documented so that all parties can keep up.
The next step defines who your audiences are going to be. Once this is clear, IA starts organizing your future site into pages of content and functions that the site will need to have.
Next stage is to build a skeleton form of the site, map out navigation and wireframes. Then it's time to look at the graphics, come up with layout grids, design sketches, mock-ups, and get ready to program!
Why is Information Architecture so important?
It is the foundation for good Web design - a blueprint of the site upon which all other aspects are built - form, function, navigation and interface, interaction, and visual design. Initiating the IA process is the first thing you should do when planning a site.
Clients who skip IA often find themselves re-doing development time and time again. IA process can save both time and money in the long run to clarify the bigger picture of what your site will do. You don't need to be an expert to use it to your advantage.