Eight Steps to Building Solid Info Architecture - Part 2

Continuing the conversation from our last blog, here are the last four best practices for building solid site architecture:

4. Design a sitemap. Created in Visio or other flowcharting software, this is a high-level representation of how pages are linked together. Also a good reference point for site structure and page or section labels.

5. Create wire frames to sketch page layout. Wire frames should be created for important or unique pages such as the Home page, top-level section pages, sub-section pages, content page templates, and search results. These should also be created in Visio or other flowcharting software to keep the layouts simple and not over-designed.

6. Design easy navigation. Create menus that are consistent in structure and location. Use breadcrumbs (such as: Home > Knowledge > Articles) to help communicate site structure and show users where they are on your site.

7. Map keywords for good SEO. Make sure to map your navigation and pages to keywords that will be searched for by users. To discover how users are searching for items you’re planning to have on your site, use keyword tools such as Keyword Discovery and Wordtracker.

8. Craft your content flow. Enlist a Web content writer to help you decide what copy will appear and ensure there is a logical thought process in place, with clear calls-to-action. Be sure to solidify the labeling of sections and sub-sections as well.

When all is said and done, your site architecture can and will be a success if it effectively supports your users’ needs. By following these eight best practices, you will have built a solid and user-centric site.