A-Z Frequently asked questions

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

What is this index for?

This alphabetical topic index helps you quickly find information about information architecture concepts, WIAA programs, and professional development resources. It's designed to be a comprehensive reference for both newcomers and experienced practitioners.

How is this different from search?

While search helps you find specific content, this index lets you browse topics systematically and discover related concepts you might not have thought to search for. It's particularly useful for learning about the breadth of information architecture practice.

How often is the index updated? We review and update the index quarterly to add new topics, refine definitions, and ensure links remain current. If you notice missing topics or broken links, please let us know.

Using the index

What if I can't find a topic I'm looking for? First, try thinking of alternative terms - for example, "findability" might be under "Search design." If you still can't locate it, use our site search or contact us to suggest additions.

Do all topics link to full articles? Most topics link to detailed resources, but some may link to relevant sections within larger articles or external resources. We're continuously expanding our content coverage.

Can I suggest new topics for the index? Absolutely! We welcome suggestions for topics that would benefit the IA community. You can submit suggestions through our contact form or during community events like IA Cafe.

For newcomers to IA

Where should I start if I'm new to information architecture?

Begin with "Information architecture" for an overview, then explore "User research," "Content strategy," and "Navigation design." These foundational topics will give you a solid understanding of the field.

Which topics are most important for my role?

This depends on your specific work, but key intersections include:

• UX designers: Navigation design, User research, Tree testing

• Content strategists: Content modeling, Taxonomy development, Content strategy

• Product managers: Information architecture, User research, Design systems

• Researchers: Card sorting, Tree testing, User research methods

Are there beginner-friendly resources for each topic?

Yes, we prioritize accessibility in our content. Most topic pages include introductory sections and link to both beginner and advanced resources.

Technical questions

Why use an A-Z index instead of just search?

An alphabetical index serves several purposes that search alone can't:

• Discoverability: Helps you find topics you didn't know existed

• Systematic learning: Allows methodical exploration of the field

• Quick reference: Faster than search when you know the topic name

• Accessibility: Works even when search is temporarily unavailable

How do you handle topics with multiple names? We use cross-references and "see also" links. For example, "Mental models" might appear under M with a cross-reference from "User mental models" under U.