# World Information Architecture Association

Advancing the field of information architecture through community, education, and practice

## WIAA advances information architecture through community, education, and practice

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community for people who make information easier to find, understand, and use. Through events, learning, and shared resources, we help people practice information architecture and create clearer information environments for everyone.

<a href="/spaces/K2e31xFFdsoBAfGSEMiA/pages/kepi6OJc4ByqUoo5ysaY" class="button primary">Get involved</a>  <a href="/spaces/-LrGl7tiiD194wJD7Z4K/pages/-LrGlGzVsY5tc8W6csS1" class="button secondary">Learn about WIAA</a>

***

### Featured updates

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>World IA Day returns March 6, 2027</strong></td><td>Join the global celebration of information architecture. Explore this year’s plans, follow updates, and find ways to take part.</td><td><a href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/SvxZonzvyjfSKxxDINSV">/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/SvxZonzvyjfSKxxDINSV</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Join Open Office Hours on September 3, 2026</strong></td><td>Bring your questions, ideas, and concerns about IA trends. Drop in to connect with the WIAA community and continue the conversation.</td><td><a href="/spaces/WjqLp208FYDjtngUkkBF">/spaces/WjqLp208FYDjtngUkkBF</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Explore the WIAA IA Certificate Program</strong></td><td>Build your practice with structured learning in information architecture. Learn what the program covers and how to get involved.</td><td><a href="/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV">/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### Get involved

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Volunteer</strong></td><td>Explore different ways to be involved as a volunteer, speaker, or event organizer</td><td><a href="/spaces/K2e31xFFdsoBAfGSEMiA/pages/kepi6OJc4ByqUoo5ysaY">/spaces/K2e31xFFdsoBAfGSEMiA/pages/kepi6OJc4ByqUoo5ysaY</a></td><td><a href="/files/fxZADU59pQOkbYIWl4yu">/files/fxZADU59pQOkbYIWl4yu</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Support</strong></td><td>Donate to support global initiatives</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td><td><a href="/files/R4WTeyjbmf95lwtu0Nru">/files/R4WTeyjbmf95lwtu0Nru</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### Programs and events we organize

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><h4>World IA Day</h4></td><td>Global celebrations of information architecture</td><td><em>World IA Day 2027 is on March 6, 2027</em></td><td><a href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/4IgEloV9ao1iv30ReD72">/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/4IgEloV9ao1iv30ReD72</a></td><td><a href="/files/sCF45RiTpdJGkVFnPiRk">/files/sCF45RiTpdJGkVFnPiRk</a></td></tr><tr><td><h4>World IA Cafe</h4></td><td>Webinars on theoretical and applied information architecture</td><td></td><td><a href="/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/jXrcgHU4JFWwNPTxuPt1">/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/jXrcgHU4JFWwNPTxuPt1</a></td><td><a href="/files/L7ZKSb3JaYPLBnSZNBvl">/files/L7ZKSb3JaYPLBnSZNBvl</a></td></tr><tr><td><h4>Taxonomy Talk</h4></td><td>Discord community around taxonomies and knowledge management</td><td></td><td><a href="/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZOMwfQDC9JykQV7neWEW">/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZOMwfQDC9JykQV7neWEW</a></td><td><a href="/files/c8Ai7tFKvm8KlMA9dZPM">/files/c8Ai7tFKvm8KlMA9dZPM</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### [News](/blog) <a href="#news" id="news"></a>

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Tag<select><option value="0WFDhfKgXIUP" label="Future of WIAA" color="blue"></option><option value="JQkvuW5PChEM" label="World IA Day" color="blue"></option><option value="cEDOnd7pPtIw" label="Partnerships" color="blue"></option><option value="CiGDdUQwo8up" label="Education" color="blue"></option></select></th><th>Title</th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><span data-option="CiGDdUQwo8up">Education</span></td><td><strong>Introducing the WIAA IA Certificate Program</strong></td><td>27 Apr 2026</td><td><a href="/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV">/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV</a></td><td><a href="/files/32Av0QYTOphqBRosvKEu">/files/32Av0QYTOphqBRosvKEu</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="0WFDhfKgXIUP">Future of WIAA</span></td><td><strong>To what end do we design? The heart of Information Architecture</strong></td><td>9 Mar 2026</td><td><a href="/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/UNpoIStTZWgWBRWGhfyD">/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/UNpoIStTZWgWBRWGhfyD</a></td><td><a href="/files/32Av0QYTOphqBRosvKEu">/files/32Av0QYTOphqBRosvKEu</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="cEDOnd7pPtIw">Partnerships</span></td><td><strong>WIAA partners with UXtweak</strong></td><td>11 Feb 2026</td><td><a href="/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/XmFYC3gao4GEYwdBlRtQ">/spaces/emu4oAuN0OTZ8qGz325e/pages/XmFYC3gao4GEYwdBlRtQ</a></td><td><a href="/files/yc7otiRlWFmkrLEEvU8l">/files/yc7otiRlWFmkrLEEvU8l</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### Local connections. Global impact.

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="/files/KzLTEmN6tTEM7fIL9rDn" alt="Map of past and present locations participating in World IA Day since 2012."><figcaption><p>Past and present locations participating in World IA Day since 2012. Updated February 2026. Credit: Google Maps. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=12SCDQ-YfYudsMX4zg3pOaZReiNX4YPE&#x26;usp=sharing">View interactive map</a></p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Sharing why information architecture matters

{% columns %}
{% column %}
"I enjoy the sense of community and building the local community here in Barcelona, raising awareness about IA and helping various people have the opportunity to present about what they know and their work."

— Kevin van Reenen, WIAD22 Barcelona, Spain
{% endcolumn %}

{% column %}
"I am passionate about fostering conversations and collaborations that push the boundaries of how we organize and interact with information. ...It’s an honor to play a part in advancing IA and empowering others through this shared experience."

— Dechen Nagi, WIAD25 Vancouver, Canada
{% endcolumn %}
{% endcolumns %}

***

### Supporters of the IA community <a href="#partners-and-sponsors" id="partners-and-sponsors"></a>

These partners help support WIAA programs and community initiatives.

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Rosenfeld Media</strong></td><td><a href="/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT">/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT</a></td><td><a href="https://rosenfeldmedia.com/">https://rosenfeldmedia.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Balsamiq</strong></td><td><a href="/files/rxpXLpn8u5SyZjX2fCFx">/files/rxpXLpn8u5SyZjX2fCFx</a></td><td><a href="https://balsamiq.com/">https://balsamiq.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>O’Reilly Media</strong></td><td><a href="/files/dOP2pTq2MEJ7tvgOG5Zo">/files/dOP2pTq2MEJ7tvgOG5Zo</a></td><td><a href="https://www.oreilly.com/">https://www.oreilly.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>UXtweak</strong></td><td><a href="/files/4SYnyb9gK5JXDTsAEQ3D">/files/4SYnyb9gK5JXDTsAEQ3D</a></td><td><a href="https://www.uxtweak.com/">https://www.uxtweak.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Information Architecture Gateway</strong></td><td><a href="/files/eqesmzpbj8EZoPebZqiC">/files/eqesmzpbj8EZoPebZqiC</a></td><td><a href="https://iagateway.org/">https://iagateway.org/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Rutgers</strong></td><td><a href="/files/jMfHsrxRV7GR4nogJnQq">/files/jMfHsrxRV7GR4nogJnQq</a></td><td><a href="https://mbs.rutgers.edu/">https://mbs.rutgers.edu/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Sensemakers Club</strong></td><td><a href="/files/0U1a07e4kgl4SAesVwXf">/files/0U1a07e4kgl4SAesVwXf</a></td><td><a href="https://www.thesensemakersclub.com/">https://www.thesensemakersclub.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>DIA Design Guild</strong></td><td><a href="/files/iaSQ45nEqa8YKlPUveGd">/files/iaSQ45nEqa8YKlPUveGd</a></td><td><a href="https://www.diadesign.io/">https://www.diadesign.io/</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

<a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0" class="button secondary">Partner with WIAA</a>


# Policies

{% content-ref url="/pages/yxQmUlhXPgHKQPxubUL5" %}
[Accessibility statement](/policies/accessibility-statement)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/uNxqRJVFWXjKzFlZEfC7" %}
[Privacy policy](/policies/privacy-policy)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/7uJYecOyFZ4ftm6h5dK5" %}
[Code of conduct](/policies/code-of-conduct)
{% endcontent-ref %}


# Accessibility statement

We want everyone who visits our site, the hub for World IA Day, to feel welcome and find the experience rewarding, including people with disabilities or those who use assistive technology and preference settings to make the Web easier for them to use.

#### Making the site accessible <a href="#making-the-site-accessible" id="making-the-site-accessible"></a>

To help us make the World IA Day website a positive place for everyone, it is responsive, so it will reformat to fit onto different size screens.

We also used the [Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0](https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG20/) as guidance. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities, and more user friendly for everyone, as well as identifying requirements for good practice in coding a site.

#### Making World IA Day events accessible <a href="#making-world-ia-day-events-accessible" id="making-world-ia-day-events-accessible"></a>

World IA Day is more than a website. It’s an annual celebration, with events around the world run by dedicated teams of volunteers.

Creating an environment that accommodates all attendees is very important to our organization. Attendance should not be limited to certain people. We are a community that embraces diversity. Each celebration should emulate a welcoming and accessible environment.

If you need an accommodation or have a problem, we hope you will get in touch with the local organizers early and work with them, so you can enjoy World IA Day comfortably.

#### &#x20;<a href="#how-are-we-doing" id="how-are-we-doing"></a>

We’ve worked hard on the website to make sure that it stays accessible as new content is added. We monitor the website regularly to maintain this, but if you do find any problems, please get in touch.

If you enjoyed using our site, or if you had trouble with any part of it, please get in touch. We’d like to hear from you by email at <producer@worldiaday.org> or [create an issue](https://github.com/worldiaday/website/issues).

If you are reporting a problem, it would help us if you provide the information advised in the Web Accessibility Initiative’s page [Contacting Organizations about Inaccessible Websites](https://www.w3.org/WAI/teach-advocate/contact-inaccessible-websites/) in your request.


# Privacy policy

World IA Association believes in protecting personal information whenever necessary.

We also aim to connect our network of people together for the benefit of all and strives to do so while respecting personal privacy and confidential information.

World IA Day collects personally identifiable information for a number of reasons, including but not limited to volunteer recruitment and general correspondence. When this voluntary information is provided, it should be assumed that:

* Volunteer information may be shared with other volunteers
* All information may be reviewed by the Board of Directors

Participation in surveys is voluntary, and the information received will not be shared in any way that could identify the participants.

World IA Day does not sell or share personally identifiable information in any way that is not covered in this policy. If there is a change to this policy that will affect how we handle personal information, the affected individuals will be notified via email.


# Code of conduct

World IA Day is dedicated to the empowerment of local leaders. Our celebrations inspire the global growth of information architecture as a community of practice. We are dedicated to bringing a diversity of thoughts and thinkers.

No matter where in the world you are, we want to make sure that World IA Day is a safe and professional experience for all to volunteer for, attend, and speak at.

The Global Board of Directors of World IA Association have drafted the below code of conduct to be agreed to and upheld by any member of the global and local volunteer teams. This code of conduct applies to all volunteers and organizers, all venues and their hosts, all online meetings and forums, all attendees, and all speakers of World IA Day, World IA Association, and its programs.

## We do not tolerate harassment in any form

Our local teams are dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion (or lack thereof).

Harassment includes offensive verbal comments related to gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention.

Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate in any context revolving around World IA Day, including talks, parties, social media and other online media.

If anyone in the World IA Day community engages in any of the aforementioned behavior, the local organizer, venue hosts, or global team may take any action they deem appropriate, from warning the offender to immediately expelling the offender from World IA Day service or attendance.

## We’re listening

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns regarding the conduct of our global or local volunteers, presenters, or attendees, please contact <safety@worldiaday.org> where a member of our global team is dedicated to assisting all locations.&#x20;

The global board is trained in how to address and report any incidents brought to their attention. All reports will be handled in the strictest confidence.

{% hint style="info" %}
Contact <safety@worldiaday.org>
{% endhint %}

## Should I report it?

If you answer “yes” to any of the following, please let us know.

* Do you feel unsafe or fear that someone else does?
* Do you have prior conduct-violating experience with members of our community that deters your participation in a celebration?
* Are you concerned about the appropriateness of language being used, views being expressed or the materials being shared at any of our events or via our social media channels?
* Did you witness something that you are not sure is appropriate based on our code of conduct?

## What happens if I report something?

* First, we will listen.
* Then, we will help you to determine the options that we have based on the situation. We will also document the details to assure trends of behavior are uncovered across locations.
* Lastly, we will follow the situation to a resolution where you feel safe and you can remain anonymous to the offender if you wish to be.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all times for the benefit of everyone. We value your participation.


# A-Z Frequently asked questions

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

## **What is this index for?**&#x20;

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?**&#x20;

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?**&#x20;

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?**&#x20;

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?**&#x20;

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?**&#x20;

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.


# A

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Abby Covert

Alveart, Luis

Andrew Jung

Atlanta

Andrea Resmini

Andrea Rosenbusch

Austin, Texas, United States


# B

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Barcelona](https://barcelona.worldiaday.org/), Spain

Boston, Massachusetts, United States


# C

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

California, United States

* [Los Angeles](https://losangeles.worldiaday.org/)
* [Broken mention](broken://spaces/5CGItbXZ6xSagff2ZdC3)
* San Gabriel Valley
* San Jose

Canada

* Alberta
* Edmonton
* [Vancouver](https://vancouver.worldiaday.org/)

[Cesena](https://cesena.worldiaday.org/), Italy

Challenges of Change

* World IA Day global theme: [World IA Day 2025](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2025)

Chicago, Illinois, United States

[Columbus](https://columbus.worldiaday.org/), Ohio, United States

[Content strategy](/content-collection/topics/content-strategy)

Context

* World IA Day global theme: [World IA Day 2024](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2024)

Covert, Abby


# D

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Dallas, Texas, United States

Dan Klyn

Designing for meaning. See [World IA Day 2026](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2026)

Design for difference. See World IA Day 2019


# E

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Ear, Jenny


# F

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)


# G

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Georgia

* Atlanta

Ghada Kandil

[Grace Lau](/people/person/grace-lau)


# H

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Broken mention](broken://spaces/QMv2NsWu6bfeusSrly6K)

Houston


# I

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Italy

* [Cesena](https://cesena.worldiaday.org/)
* Milan
* Rome


# J

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Japan

* [Tokyo](https://tokyo.worldiaday.org/)

Jenny Ear

Jenny Sassi

Andrew Jung


# K

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Kandil, Ghada

Klyn, Dan


# L

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Lau, Grace](/people/person/grace-lau)

Lee, Soyeon

[London](https://london.worldiaday.org/)

[Los Angeles](https://losangeles.worldiaday.org/)

Luis Alveart


# M

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Meaning, see [World IA Day 2026](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2026)"Designing for meaning"

Michigan

* Ann Arbor

Misra, Rupananda

Montevecchi, Paolo

Morville, Peter


# N

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Nashville, Tennessee, United States

Nehar Sultana

[Newsletter](https://www.information-architecture.world/newsletter/)

[New York](https://newyork.worldiaday.org/), United States


# O

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Ohio, United States

* [Akron](https://akron.worldiaday.org/)
* [Columbus](https://columbus.worldiaday.org/)
* Kent. See Akron

Orientation

* World IA Day global theme: [World IA Day 2023](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2023)


# P

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Paolo Montevecchi

Peter Morville

[Providence](https://providence.worldiaday.org/)


# Q

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)


# R

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Research

* [State of Information Architecture](https://www.information-architecture.world/state-of-ia/)

Resmini, Andrea

[Richmond](https://richmond.worldiaday.org/)

Rhode Island

* See [Providence](https://providence.worldiaday.org/)

Roozen, Xander

Rosenbusch, Andrea

Rosenfeld, Louis

Rupananda Misra


# S

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Broken mention](broken://spaces/5CGItbXZ6xSagff2ZdC3)

San Jose

Sassi, Jenny

Soyeon Lee

Spain

* [Barcelona](https://barcelona.worldiaday.org/)

[State of Information Architecture](https://www.information-architecture.world/state-of-ia/)

Sultana, Nehar


# T

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Taxonomy Talk](https://www.information-architecture.world/taxonomy-talk/)

Tennessee, United States

* Nashville

Texas, United States

* Austin
* Dallas
* Houston

[Tokyo](https://tokyo.worldiaday.org/), Japan


# U

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

United Kingdom

* Bristol
* [London](https://london.worldiaday.org/)

United States

* [Los Angeles](https://losangeles.worldiaday.org/)
* [New York](https://newyork.worldiaday.org/)
* [Providence](https://providence.worldiaday.org/)
* [Richmond](https://richmond.worldiaday.org/)
* [Broken mention](broken://spaces/5CGItbXZ6xSagff2ZdC3)


# V

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

[Vancouver](https://vancouver.worldiaday.org/)

Virginia

* [Richmond](https://richmond.worldiaday.org/)


# W

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Wayfinding

* World IA Day global theme: [World IA Day 2023](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2023)

Washington, D.C.

Washington, United States

* Seattle

[World IA Day](https://www.information-architecture.world/worldiaday/) (WIAD)

* All locations: [Locations](/worldiaday/locations)
* All years and their associated themes: [Events](/worldiaday/events)

[World IA Cafe](https://www.information-architecture.world/worldiacafe/)

World Information Architecture Association (WIAA)

* [About WIAA](https://www.information-architecture.world/about-wiaa/)


# X

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Xander Roozen


# Y

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)


# Z

[A](/az-topic/a)  [B](/az-topic/b)  [C](/az-topic/c)  [D](/az-topic/d)  [E](/az-topic/e)  [F](/az-topic/f)  [G](/az-topic/g)  [H](/az-topic/h)  [I](/az-topic/i)  [J](/az-topic/j)  [K](/az-topic/k)  [L](/az-topic/l)  [M](/az-topic/m)  [N](/az-topic/n)  [O](/az-topic/o)  [P](/az-topic/p)  [Q](/az-topic/q)  [R](/az-topic/r)  [S](/az-topic/s)  [T](/az-topic/t)  [U](/az-topic/u)  [V](/az-topic/v)  [W](/az-topic/w)  [X](/az-topic/x)  [Y](/az-topic/y)  [Z](/az-topic/z) [#](/az-topic/undefined)

Zurich


# \#


# Events

WIAA and its volunteers host in-person and online events around the year to showcase conversations and developments in information architecture and other areas of interest.

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards" data-full-width="true"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><h3><a data-mention href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/4IgEloV9ao1iv30ReD72">/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/4IgEloV9ao1iv30ReD72</a></h3></td><td>An annual global celebration of Information Architecture across 20+ locations worldwide, where local events create spaces for connection, learning, and advancing the IA practice</td><td><a href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/PB6eTNTs6kQR71Usn0om">Find a location</a> <strong>•</strong> <a href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE">Become an organizer</a></td><td><a href="/files/fuvslQTr5FPk6tskDIKo">/files/fuvslQTr5FPk6tskDIKo</a></td></tr><tr><td><h3><a data-mention href="/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/jXrcgHU4JFWwNPTxuPt1">/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/jXrcgHU4JFWwNPTxuPt1</a></h3></td><td>Monthly virtual event series connecting global IA professionals to discuss current topics and share practical experiences</td><td><a href="/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/jXrcgHU4JFWwNPTxuPt1">View Upcoming Talks</a> <strong>•</strong> <a href="/spaces/fvUOB5XGIEhQdeGXRIAD/pages/TlXQiQXMPGhGhxn50VTV">Propose a Talk</a></td><td><a href="/files/UA7TnxnL7GvCVf6COpOD">/files/UA7TnxnL7GvCVf6COpOD</a></td></tr><tr><td><h3><a data-mention href="/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZOMwfQDC9JykQV7neWEW">/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZOMwfQDC9JykQV7neWEW</a></h3></td><td>An open Discord community and virtual event space for taxonomy and IA professionals to discuss controlled vocabularies, ontologies, and knowledge organization</td><td><a href="/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZOMwfQDC9JykQV7neWEW">View upcoming talks</a> <strong>•</strong> <a href="/spaces/ocKFKWJqcZdWQqFUHnut/pages/ZonjzvWSNlfQuyoqdDzR">Propose a talk</a></td><td><a href="/files/HlBIkrUYYBO69I1yTwTc">/files/HlBIkrUYYBO69I1yTwTc</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# World IA Day

World Information Architecture Day (WIAD) is an annual celebration that brings together a diverse community passionate about information architecture and its role in our work and personal lives.

Since 2012, World IA Day has grown from a handful of locations to over 136 locations spanning six continents. The celebration unites practitioners, students, and enthusiasts in a day of learning, sharing, and connection—all focused on making information more findable, usable, and meaningful.

<figure><img src="/files/eo8wowmg9EtGzHuMe81l" alt=""><figcaption><p>Map of World IA Day locations since 2012</p></figcaption></figure>

***

## Save the date: World Information Architecture Day 2027

WIAD26 is a wrap. Twenty cities. One global theme.&#x20;

**Next year, World IA Day 2027 lands on March 6.** Same mission, new theme, new communities joining the map. Theme announcement, call for organizers, and more details to follow later this year.

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad27-locations" class="button primary">Host a WIAD27 event</a>

<a href="https://luma.com/worldiaday" class="button secondary" data-icon="arrow-right">See calendar of events</a>

***

## Past Celebrations

World IA Day has grown to become a vital platform for advancing the practice of information architecture. Check out the past 3 years of events:

* [World IA Day 2026](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2026)
* [World IA Day 2025](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2025)
* [World IA Day 2024](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2024)

[View archive of all themes and celebrations](/worldiaday/events)

***

## Organize or sponsor World IA Day

<table data-card-size="large" data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Headline</th><th>Content</th><th data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Bring World IA Day to your community</strong></td><td>Interested in organizing a World IA Day celebration in your city? Applications for local organizers open in June.</td><td><a href="/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE">/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Be a global or local sponsor</strong></td><td>Support the information architecture community through sponsorship at global or local levels.</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Events

Every year a global theme is chosen to give all the participating locations a direction on information architecture to keep their events aligned with the mission and vision for World IA Day.

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards" data-full-width="false"><thead><tr><th>Theme</th><th></th><th>Year</th><th data-hidden>Date</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/R3mdgyxGX1RvFSkZPsUt">/pages/R3mdgyxGX1RvFSkZPsUt</a></td><td>Designing for meaning</td><td>2026</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/mSIxqigx32dxd1D4Ool5">/pages/mSIxqigx32dxd1D4Ool5</a></td><td>Challenges of Change</td><td>2025</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/mSIxqigx32dxd1D4Ool5">/pages/mSIxqigx32dxd1D4Ool5</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/DMdQTLe1YRvkw3IIrH3S">/pages/DMdQTLe1YRvkw3IIrH3S</a></td><td>Context</td><td>2024</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/DMdQTLe1YRvkw3IIrH3S">/pages/DMdQTLe1YRvkw3IIrH3S</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/dlVV2A9QzY9pmpUXcOcX">/pages/dlVV2A9QzY9pmpUXcOcX</a></td><td>Orientation and Wayfinding</td><td>2023</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/dlVV2A9QzY9pmpUXcOcX">/pages/dlVV2A9QzY9pmpUXcOcX</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/ZF81CyakFdYsUP48sRHe">/pages/ZF81CyakFdYsUP48sRHe</a></td><td>A Connected World</td><td>2022</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/ZF81CyakFdYsUP48sRHe">/pages/ZF81CyakFdYsUP48sRHe</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/MgEilyAz5Hp8OjuYLFpN">/pages/MgEilyAz5Hp8OjuYLFpN</a></td><td>Curiosity</td><td>2021</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/MgEilyAz5Hp8OjuYLFpN">/pages/MgEilyAz5Hp8OjuYLFpN</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/k5mq1Z5XyV7KlerSl9V8">/pages/k5mq1Z5XyV7KlerSl9V8</a></td><td>The IA Element</td><td>2020</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/k5mq1Z5XyV7KlerSl9V8">/pages/k5mq1Z5XyV7KlerSl9V8</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/7uO399XSQHGCfORDiiZE">/pages/7uO399XSQHGCfORDiiZE</a></td><td>Design for Difference</td><td>2019</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/7uO399XSQHGCfORDiiZE">/pages/7uO399XSQHGCfORDiiZE</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/SBafuibbfgbkWpr4e8q8">/pages/SBafuibbfgbkWpr4e8q8</a></td><td>IA for good</td><td>2018</td><td></td><td><a href="/pages/SBafuibbfgbkWpr4e8q8">/pages/SBafuibbfgbkWpr4e8q8</a></td></tr><tr><td>World IA Day 2017</td><td>Information strategy &#x26; structure</td><td>2017</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>World IA Day 2016</td><td>Information everywhere, architects everywhere</td><td>2016</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>World IA Day 2015</td><td>Architecting happiness</td><td>2015</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/naSLh70fIJwXPHQNDQUk">/pages/naSLh70fIJwXPHQNDQUk</a></td><td>Making the world a better place through information architecture</td><td>2014</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/N9hzmMr0qtHwb5VPNYxU">/pages/N9hzmMr0qtHwb5VPNYxU</a></td><td>Exploring and expanding the ontologies of information architecture</td><td>2013</td><td>February 9, 2013</td><td><a href="/pages/N9hzmMr0qtHwb5VPNYxU">/pages/N9hzmMr0qtHwb5VPNYxU</a></td></tr><tr><td><a data-mention href="/pages/U12VE8uIi6fpU6jydTIO">/pages/U12VE8uIi6fpU6jydTIO</a></td><td></td><td>2012</td><td>February 11, 2012</td><td><a href="/pages/U12VE8uIi6fpU6jydTIO">/pages/U12VE8uIi6fpU6jydTIO</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Organize or sponsor World IA Day

<table data-card-size="large" data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Headline</th><th>Content</th><th data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Bring World IA Day to your community</strong></td><td>Interested in organizing a World IA Day celebration in your city? Applications for local organizers open in June.</td><td><a href="/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE">/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Be a global or local sponsor</strong></td><td>Support the information architecture community through sponsorship at global or local levels.</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# World IA Day 2027

\#wiad27 is on March 6, 2027

## Shape the next World IA Day: Host an event

World IA Day 2027 will take place on **Saturday, March 6, 2027.** Learn about the [application process and key dates](/worldiaday/call-for-organizers).&#x20;

### Timeline for World IA Day 2027&#x20;

* **June 2026:** Call for theme suggestions
* **July 15 - November 30, 2026**: Location applications open
* **July 2026**: Global theme announcement
* **September 2026**: New location announcements as they are approved.
* **November 2026**: Speaker applications open - Contact participating locations for more information.&#x20;
* **January 2027**: Registration generally open for local events.&#x20;
* **March 6, 2027**: World IA Day 2026

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Be a global or local sponsor</strong></td><td>Support the information architecture community through sponsorship at global or local levels.</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### About World IA Day

World IA Day is a one-day annual celebration focused on the practice and education of Information Architecture. Our goal is to inspire the global growth of a community of practice and empower local leaders to build a culture around it.


# World IA Day 2026

\#wiad26 is on March 7, 2026

## Global theme: Designing for Meaning

**Purpose, Experience, and Everything in Between**

Information architects design for meaning in everything we create. We intentionally shape how people understand and navigate systems, ensuring our structures create meaningful experiences rather than confusion.

Meaning is what transforms data into knowledge. It helps people make sense of complexity and find what they need. As information architects, we design structures that create meaning. We organize content so people can understand it. We build systems that connect users to the information that matters to them.

Our work begins with **purpose**: understanding why information exists and what it should accomplish. It culminates in **experience**: how people actually encounter, understand, and use the information we’ve structured. Between purpose and experience lies the complex work of organizing, labeling, and connecting information in ways that bridge intent and reality.

Whether we design for humans navigating websites, create systems that work alongside AI, or organize information across different cultures, our intent remains constant: we deliberately structure information to create meaningful experiences that serve human purposes.

<details>

<summary>Why designing for meaning matters</summary>

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how information is created and shared. These technologies produce more content faster than ever before. But they also create challenges. How do we ensure AI-generated content has meaning? How do we design systems that remain understandable when machines are part of the process? What does it mean to be the human in the loop?

Information architects can help solve these challenges. We understand how to create structure that supports meaning. We know how to organize information so it makes sense to people. We can design systems that are ethical, inclusive, and transparent.

The difference between a frustrating search and a satisfying discovery. Between feeling lost in information and feeling guided toward understanding. Between data that overwhelms and knowledge that empowers. These experiential outcomes are what we design for when we design for meaning.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How is meaning relevant to information architecture?</summary>

This theme can include diverse perspectives and applications:

* **Designing for meaning with AI:** How do we intentionally structure AI-integrated systems to create meaningful experiences?
* **Understanding different cultures**: How do different communities organize and understand information? How can we design more inclusive systems?
* **Aligning purpose with practice:** How do we ensure our design decisions serve clear purposes and create meaningful outcomes?
* **Making complexity understandable**: How do we help people navigate complex information? What structures create clarity?
* **Building ethical systems**: What responsibilities do we have as information architects? How do we design systems that are fair and transparent?
* **Everything in between**: The daily work of connecting users, content, and context in meaningful ways.

</details>

***

## Timeline for World IA Day 2026&#x20;

* **July 15 - November 30, 2025**: Location applications open
* **July 2025**: Global theme announcement
* **September 2025**: New location announcements as they are approved.
* **November 2025**: Speaker applications open - Contact participating locations for more information.&#x20;
* **January 2026**: Registration generally open for local events.&#x20;
* **March 7-28, 2026**: World IA Day 2026

{% hint style="info" %}
Dates may vary by location as each event is independently organized and coordinated. Locations may also decide to host their WIAD event on a weekday.
{% endhint %}

***

## WIAD26 Locations

World IA Day has been celebrated in more than 60 locations across the globe since its founding in 2012. Each location builds on a rich history of local community engagement and global connection. See what locations are joining us in 2026.

<a href="https://luma.com/worldiaday" class="button primary" data-icon="calendar-days">Calendar of WIAD events</a>

**20** locations

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Location</th><th>Event type<select><option value="bPOkUogSB5h9" label="In-person" color="blue"></option><option value="ILn5PylzjHXI" label="Hybrid" color="blue"></option><option value="7ulMzUG9R8LF" label="Virtual" color="blue"></option></select></th><th data-hidden>Date</th><th data-hidden>Event status<select><option value="Lav5AJ249c38" label="Planned" color="blue"></option></select></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Budapest, Hungary</td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/4pvVzmVXAywUMK1VtY5f/pages/3WPvzGbJ3kDuUatB5CH3"><strong>Cesena, Italy</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/8qlgm8zgQsHNFPTBc3Bn/pages/Qo9mS6uaAqucTtIdUBVz"><strong>Columbus, Ohio, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="ILn5PylzjHXI">Hybrid</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/OGpOY7oipyGVbEpmehVU"><strong>Des Moines, Iowa, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="ILn5PylzjHXI">Hybrid</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://luma.com/udrnq2ax"><strong>Egypt</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="7ulMzUG9R8LF">Virtual</span></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="https://luma.com/udrnq2ax">https://luma.com/udrnq2ax</a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/fOsCmlhsG1H00ucdSDid/pages/Ri1GmnB2VOk2GsfEfLpt"><strong>Eindhoven, The Netherlands</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/fKP2jOB2QvjtIGHN42k0/pages/o5RlkBR97oIlEkEHjEqr"><strong>Fukuoka, Japan</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="ILn5PylzjHXI">Hybrid</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/2hYS6VKZcqTxXP6SM6w1"><strong>London, United Kingdom</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="7ulMzUG9R8LF">Virtual</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/nVXBBJiVs7TwAxtRRwZE"><strong>Los Angeles, California, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/OBjCCIxda3yp5EmewMig"><strong>Milan, Italy</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/i3WlwAxLJ3nlva0W3eZZ"><strong>Nashville, Tennessee, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/DIJlEC5meGAfUkmA5t2R"><strong>New York, New York, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="7ulMzUG9R8LF">Virtual</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/36Bei00nyQzYinSz68Z7"><strong>Palermo, Italy</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="ILn5PylzjHXI">Hybrid</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/Sze55NwkMkGRABrHkJLV/pages/SzCwxApQd21tcxAUn8fu"><strong>Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/jdcgaVArTdDf1jeV4a5s/pages/ccO2uLg4iOmKu7h4Vo5W"><strong>Providence, Rhode Island, United States</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://zurich.worldiaday.ch/"><strong>Switzerland</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/upyGkbfyBMDu2IlCXLEY"><strong>Tokyo, Japan</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://wiad.edu.pl/wiad/"><strong>Toruń, Poland</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/ysuZev2JArG6yp63Ugr0/pages/eReEmUOqaTxl6wcq1mu9"><strong>Vancouver, Canada</strong></a></td><td><span data-option="bPOkUogSB5h9">In-person</span></td><td></td><td><span data-option="Lav5AJ249c38">Planned</span></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Thanks to our WIAD26 Global Sponsors

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Rosenfeld Media</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT</a></td><td><a href="https://rosenfeldmedia.com/">https://rosenfeldmedia.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td>Balsamiq</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/rxpXLpn8u5SyZjX2fCFx">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/rxpXLpn8u5SyZjX2fCFx</a></td><td><a href="https://balsamiq.com/">https://balsamiq.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td>O’Reilly Media</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/dOP2pTq2MEJ7tvgOG5Zo">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/dOP2pTq2MEJ7tvgOG5Zo</a></td><td><a href="https://www.oreilly.com/">https://www.oreilly.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td>UXtweak</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/4SYnyb9gK5JXDTsAEQ3D">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/4SYnyb9gK5JXDTsAEQ3D</a></td><td><a href="https://www.uxtweak.com/">https://www.uxtweak.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td>Information Architecture Gateway</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/eqesmzpbj8EZoPebZqiC">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/eqesmzpbj8EZoPebZqiC</a></td><td><a href="https://iagateway.org/">https://iagateway.org/</a></td></tr><tr><td>Rutgers </td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/jMfHsrxRV7GR4nogJnQq">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/jMfHsrxRV7GR4nogJnQq</a></td><td><a href="https://mbs.rutgers.edu/">https://mbs.rutgers.edu/</a></td></tr><tr><td>DIA Design Guild</td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/iaSQ45nEqa8YKlPUveGd">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/iaSQ45nEqa8YKlPUveGd</a></td><td><a href="https://www.diadesign.io/">https://www.diadesign.io/</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### WIAD26 Sponsors

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Rosenfeld Media</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/LNXYHme5LVtUTQGQ0QvT</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Sensemakers Club</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/0U1a07e4kgl4SAesVwXf">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/0U1a07e4kgl4SAesVwXf</a></td><td><a href="https://www.thesensemakersclub.com/">https://www.thesensemakersclub.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>IAC: The information architecture conference</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/dVCM5Nx0ednMZQOt8XTF">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/dVCM5Nx0ednMZQOt8XTF</a></td><td><a href="https://www.theiaconference.com/">https://www.theiaconference.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Duane Forrester</strong></td><td data-object-fit="contain"><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/xdmDCGBUcMGV5isDqRa8">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/xdmDCGBUcMGV5isDqRa8</a></td><td><a href="http://www.duaneforrester.com/">http://www.duaneforrester.com/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Citation Labs</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/maJqGWUnEUADk2xXZ2mq">/spaces/bLpZo1cg9LZzlWs2TohX/files/maJqGWUnEUADk2xXZ2mq</a></td><td><a href="https://citationlabs.com/about/">https://citationlabs.com/about/</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Be a global or local sponsor</strong></td><td>Support the information architecture community through sponsorship at global or local levels.</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### About World IA Day

World IA Day is a one-day annual celebration focused on the practice and education of Information Architecture. Our goal is to inspire the global growth of a community of practice and empower local leaders to build a culture around it.


# World IA Day 2025

World Information Architecture Day 2025 took place on March 8, 2025 #wiad25 #ChallengesofChange

## Global theme: Challenges of Change—Adapting Information Architecture for an Evolving World

Change is constant and rapid, much like the field of information architecture. In today's ever-changing environment, we are continually faced with new challenges that require innovative solutions

**How can we develop new approaches to navigating our field?**

By exploring new ways of thinking and behavior, leveraging artificial intelligence to revolutionize our work, and ensuring that our discipline remains future-proof, we can adapt and foster continuous improvements. Join us at World IA Day 2025 as we navigate these exciting challenges and shape the future of information architecture together.

***

## WIAD25 news & updates

* [Andrea Resmini to be Global Keynote Speaker for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/andrea-resmini-to-be-global-keynote-speaker-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Join us for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/join-us-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Theme of World IA Day 2025-Challenging Changes](/blog/2024/theme-of-world-ia-day-2025-challenging-changes)

### WIAD25 videos

* [Everything flows keynote - Andrea Resmini - WIAD25](/content-collection/collections/world-ia-day-2025/everything-flows-keynote-andrea-resmini-wiad25)

***

## Participating locations in WIAD25

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards" data-full-width="false"><thead><tr><th>Location Name</th><th>Event Date</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Link</th><th data-hidden>Event status<select><option value="78dv5IJiXWko" label="Sold out" color="blue"></option><option value="glMOUvsea0l5" label="Canceled" color="blue"></option><option value="My7SXPM95KlA" label="Event has ended" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Akron</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Austin</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Budapest</td><td>2025 March 7</td><td><a href="https://www.meetup.com/uxbudapest/events/306121765">https://www.meetup.com/uxbudapest/events/306121765</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Cesena</td><td>2025 March 7</td><td><a href="https://www.eventbrite.it/e/biglietti-wiad-2025-cesena-1255417340059">https://www.eventbrite.it/e/biglietti-wiad-2025-cesena-1255417340059</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Chicago</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Fukuoka</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://peatix.com/event/4323839">https://peatix.com/event/4323839</a></td><td><span data-option="My7SXPM95KlA">Event has ended</span></td></tr><tr><td>Hong Kong</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://wiad2025hk.eventbrite.com/">https://wiad2025hk.eventbrite.com/</a></td><td><span data-option="My7SXPM95KlA">Event has ended</span></td></tr><tr><td>London</td><td>2025 March 11</td><td></td><td><span data-option="78dv5IJiXWko">Sold out</span></td></tr><tr><td>Los Angeles</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://ti.to/worldiaday/wiad25-los-angeles">https://ti.to/worldiaday/wiad25-los-angeles</a></td><td><span data-option="My7SXPM95KlA">Event has ended</span></td></tr><tr><td>Milan</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>New York City</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://www.meetup.com/iagateway/events/306391642">https://www.meetup.com/iagateway/events/306391642</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Palermo</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Providence</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/providence-ri-world-information-architecture-day-2025-tickets-1096847964789">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/providence-ri-world-information-architecture-day-2025-tickets-1096847964789</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Richmond</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://ti.to/worldiaday/wiad25-richmond">https://ti.to/worldiaday/wiad25-richmond</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Rome</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>San Jose</td><td>2025 March 6</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Seoul</td><td>2025 March 7</td><td><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85897984132">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85897984132</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Tehran</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Tokyo</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td><a href="https://wiad2025tyo.peatix.com/view">https://wiad2025tyo.peatix.com/view</a></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Twin Cities</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>UX Research &#x26; Strategy</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Vancouver</td><td>2025 March 8</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Zürich</td><td>2025 March 6</td><td><a href="https://wiadswitzerland.org/">https://wiadswitzerland.org/</a></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Organize or sponsor World IA Day

<table data-card-size="large" data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Headline</th><th>Content</th><th data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Bring World IA Day to your community</strong></td><td>Interested in organizing a World IA Day celebration in your city? Applications for local organizers open in June.</td><td><a href="/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE">/pages/5BSYjQ9B3sbdsJswIRZE</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Be a global or local sponsor</strong></td><td>Support the information architecture community through sponsorship at global or local levels.</td><td><a href="/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0">/spaces/pk7EPQ2MV6Glje9MMcY0</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### About World IA Day

World IA Day is a one-day annual celebration focused on the practice and education of Information Architecture. Our goal is to inspire the global growth of a community of practice and empower local leaders to build a culture around it.


# World IA Day 2024

March 2, 2024 #wiad24 #ContextIA

## Global theme: Context

**Context** is all around us. It shapes the meaning in all types of communications. Without context, you can’t communicate effectively. Without context, you can’t understand meaning. Context is fundamental to the way we come to understand people, situations, and ideas. Context inspires feelings, thoughts and beliefs of groups and individuals. It is the background information that allows people to make informed decisions.&#x20;

#### Why is context relevant to information architecture?

As information architects and designers, we study the context, content, and users. We need to research the context of what we are architecting: Who is it for? What are they using it for? Why, when, where, and on which devices or channels? What are their expectations, experiences or values?&#x20;

When we understand the context, we make strategic decisions: We draw lines (seams, borders, edges) between content and context: What do we focus on? What is «inside» and what is «outside»? When we work on detailing the objects in our focus, we’re still always keeping an eye out for the context. The context can change the meaning of the content. The context itself can change, thus having an impact on our information architecture.&#x20;

Maybe we’re not even trying to architect the content, but rather the context, e.g. to give users a framework in which they can create their own content. Architecting the context, or at least making context explicit, is becoming increasingly relevant: For instance, when news is detached from its source, it is hard to distinguish reliable from fake news. Artificial intelligence builds rules based on implicit context, e.g., when assessing the CVs of job candidates.&#x20;

Join us on March 2, 2024, to enrich the discussion about context at one of the World IA Day (WIAD24) locations around the world.

[Details on the theme](https://medium.com/worldiaday/world-information-architecture-day-2024-on-context-627a417617e5)

***

### WIAD24 news & updates

* [World Information Architecture Day 2024 on CONTEXT](/blog/2023/world-information-architecture-day-2024-on-context)

***

## Participating locations in WIAD24

| Location                                                                                  | Date             | Link                                                                    |
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Akron 2024                                                                                | March 1, 2024    | [Register](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/838266948007?aff=oddtdtcreator) |
| Australia 2024                                                                            | February 29, 204 |                                                                         |
| Baltimore 2024                                                                            | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Barcelona 2024                                                                            | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Boston 2024                                                                               | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Cesena 2024                                                                               | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Charlotte 2024                                                                            | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Egypt 2024                                                                                | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Fukuoka 2024                                                                              | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Ghent 2024                                                                                | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| London 2024                                                                               | March 5, 2024    |                                                                         |
| [Los Angeles 2024](https://losangeles.worldiaday.org/events/past-events/los-angeles-2024) | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Malaysia 2024                                                                             | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Michigan 2024                                                                             | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Milan 2024                                                                                | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| New York 2024                                                                             | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Palermo 2024                                                                              | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Providence 2024                                                                           | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| [2024](https://richmond.worldiaday.org/events/2024)                                       | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| São Paulo 2024                                                                            | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Saudi Arabia 2024                                                                         | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Tehran 2024                                                                               | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Tokyo 2024                                                                                | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Toronto 2024                                                                              | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Twin Cities 2024                                                                          | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| UX Research & Strategy                                                                    | March 2, 2024    |                                                                         |
| Zurich, Switzerland                                                                       | March 8, 2024    | [Program & details](https://wiadswitzerland.org/wiad-2024/)             |

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/UtD4_Mtk0lc>" %}
Flashback to 2014 when Andrew Hinton gave a talk about context
{% endembed %}


# World IA Day 2023

March 4, 2023 #wiad23 #OrientationWayfinding

## Global theme: Orientation and Wayfinding

Wayfinding is a fundamental human activity and an integral outcome of good information architecture. It helps us to know where we are and to recognize where we could go. Having many choices can be an opportunity, but it can also cause anxiety. Therefore, we are in need of wayfinding systems that support us on our journey.

Information architecture gives us ways to understand, filter out the noise, and focus on the important parts to help us get our bearings. It creates environments that are accessible, sustainable, and extensible. All in all, information architecture empowers us to find our own way in our own time by considering our experiences, expectations, and situations.

Join the conversation on orientation and wayfinding:

* [To speak](https://forms.worldiaday.org/speakers): We would like to hear your stories about wayfinding strategies, tools and methods, application in various environments and information growth. Join us as a speaker!
* [To organize a WIAD event in your city or country](https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad23-locations): Help people learn more about wayfinding and the importance of information architecture.

## Global Keynote with Leah Ferguson

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/801793146>" %}

**"Designing Environments: How wayfinding, visual design, and information architecture share our experience"**

During her World Information Architecture Day 2023 keynote, Leah Ferguson explores why what we see on the surface is only a fraction of the information architecture and process that goes into developing positive environmental experiences.

* [Read the keynote summary](https://medium.com/worldiaday/wia-day-2023-wayfinding-keynote-and-q-a-with-leah-ferguson-102a73bdf334)
* [Watch with captions and transcript](https://vimeo.com/801793146)

\#WIAD23 #OrientationWayfinding #WIAD

The true gift of the wayfinder’s journey is not arrival at a destination; it is who we become along the way as we fulfill our potential.

\- Anonymous


# World IA Day 2022

March 5, 2022

## Global theme: A Connected World

We connect with each other in digital, physical, and blended spaces. We connect with people, products, services, content, and the world in general. This connectedness can be wondrous and yet challenging.

Information architecture uncovers and creates new connections that we weren't aware of before. It can inspire us to make new discoveries or reveal new relationships that may urge us to take constructive action, e.g. climate change, the global health crisis, or the supply chain disruption we have experienced during the pandemic. Information architecture contributes to making connections more relevant. It helps us understand which information is important and trustworthy. It provides guidance in a mess of information and helps fight against the disinformation of fake news. It allows us to steer better who and what we are connecting with. It creates places we enjoy being in where people and information meet.

In a world where we’re connected yet distanced, how do you facilitate connectedness? How do you help make sense of connections? What new connections have you made recently? How did you support others to discover new connections? In what ways do you think information and information architecture can be used to support, define, or create environments (digital, physical, virtual, or blended) to improve the lives and experiences of people in a connected world?

## Participating locations in 2022

Akron to Zurich // Cebu to Los Angeles //\
Barcelona to Bogota // Manila to Mexico\
\~40 speakers\
1 place to go

## Global keynote by Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes

In a world where we’re connected yet distanced, how do you enable connectedness?

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/670971563>" %}

### Architecting A Connected World, by Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes

Stephanie’s vision of Architecting Interaction explores how we can create contexts – physical, digital or other – that facilitate interactions and nurture connections. Architecting Interaction, like information architecture, is not an end in itself, but a process. It is a process centered on facilitating connectedness. It connects different stakeholders, helps them make sense of connections, and empowers them to continue building connections in and for the future.

\#WIAD22 #AConnectedWorld #WIAD

<div align="left"><img src="https://www.worldiaday.org/sites/default/files/styles/persons_list_profile_picture/public/images/2021-10/Stephanie-Akkaoui-Hughes.jpeg?itok=2IRV7qan" alt="Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes" height="80" width="80"></div>

[**Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes**](https://www.worldiaday.org/people/stephanie-akkaoui-hughes) is an architect, author, and international speaker. Stephanie lives and works in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. She is founder and CEO of AKKA Architects.

### ## News and Updates about WIAD22

* 2 March 2022 - [Preview of the global event platform open](https://vi.to/hubs/wiad22/schedule)
* 17 February 2022 - [World Information Architecture Association announces the WIAD22 Global Program and Keynote](https://medium.com/worldiaday/announcing-the-wiad22-global-program-and-keynote-6705c090689b)
* 28 October 2021 - [Announcing the WIAD22 global keynote: Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes](https://medium.com/worldiaday/announcing-the-wiad22-global-keynote-stephanie-akkaoui-hughes-b466891f0d04)
* 25 September 2021 - [Advocating a digital-first WIAD22](https://medium.com/worldiaday/advocating-a-digital-first-wiad22-65cf3383d855)

Global theme image credit: Stephen Anderson


# World IA Day 2021

## Global theme: Curiosity

On February 27, 2021 World IA Day talked about Curiosity

How are you curious? What does curiosity mean to you? What does curiosity have to do with information architecture?

Cu·ri·os·i·ty: the pleasure of asking, exploring, experimenting, discovering, learning, and understanding

Curiosity means to be prepared to go on a journey of which you do not know the outcome. To challenge what you – and others – think you have known so far. To change perspective and perceive other points of view.

Being curious gives us the opportunity to reach out beyond what we have been aware of so far, to create new connections and relationships, with other people, from other backgrounds, disciplines, or parts of the world.&#x20;

As information architects, we develop strategies to understand what we are trying to structure. By giving information structure, we learn to understand. We do this to encourage others to explore and understand. By being curious, we recognize our own and others’ discovery strategies.

This year gives us the chance to find out how others are dealing with the restrictions we are facing due to the pandemic, to reimagine World IA Day and information architecture, and to find new ways to be curious.

How are you curious?

## Global keynote by Cassini Nazir

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/515936908>" %}
Designing Curiosity: Ways of Unknowing, by Cassini Nazir
{% endembed %}

#### Designing Curiosity: Ways of Unknowing, by Cassini Nazir

This video will give you a first orientation to the strange, fascinating and fragile phenomenon of being curious. We will explore what curiosity is, ways we can be more curious, and, if possible, how we might invite others to be curious.

**Cassini Nazir** is a designer of conversations, curricula, and interfaces. Cassini lives and teaches in Dallas, Texas, United States. He is a Program Director and Clinical Associate Professor in New College at the University of North Texas where he teaches classes in design thinking and interaction design.


# World IA Day 2020

February 22, 2020

## Theme: The IA Element

<figure><img src="/files/hhCyxEAP8PWT8T9FGxpZ" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Past, Present and Future

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/VhKpQN_344w>" %}

Each part counts for its own purpose. But all elements must work together. The meaning behind it is the IA element.

The World IA Day was created to celebrate Information Architecture (IA) and to empower local leaders keep growing and sharing within their communities.

In 2020, more than anything, we want to reinforce this celebration – highlighting how IA is Elemental (or integral) to having the best results.

How IA ties and binds different ideas involved, the end users, the stakeholders, the designers and the developers. How IA is often the bridge element between them all and tying together through understanding. How IA filters the noise for a better collaboration for a growing community.

**IA is essential, IA is key, IA is Elemental.**

## The IA Element.

The IA element is the one that ties past, present and future.\
Excellence in Design. Excellence in Thinking. Excellence in Usability.

## More Unique Than Ever

With the dissolution of the Institute of Information Architecture (IAI) in 2019, the main institution behind WIAD, we will be carrying the torch from now on.

More than ever, our goal is clearer with the words of the IAI: to get the word out about this important practice, so more people have the words for this work and can therefore better educate themselves and others on it.

*IA is elemental.* We want to go back to the basics, to the simplicity and rebirth stronger. Surprises are the rule – this is Practical IA, the balance between rigid, flexible and strong ideas.

## A Celebration of Information Architecture

<figure><img src="/files/slnaG1BYnZh2S4pAKKSG" alt=""><figcaption><p>61 Cities, 26 Countries, 5 Continents</p></figcaption></figure>

In this year of celebration we will showcase where we have come from, how IA has made a difference in our lives and way of accessing knowledge. We will show where we are pushing the boundaries of today, and we will bring the spotlight to the future of this ever important discipline.

In our celebrations we seek to show:

* How it is essential to have the skills and learn the skills,
* To showcase the past and present of how IA has made a difference, a forum for:
  * case studies,
  * showcasing methodologies,
  * other successes in the field… how it has progressed over the years and where it is going.
* How can we channel our thoughts to focus and refocus on what’s fundamental for IA.

The number of newcomers who attend WIADs around the world is increasing, and people get fascinated about the community aspect inside the IA network. How strong is IA in your community? How can we make inroads to bring others to the field early on? The have not only aspiring Doctors and Lawyers, but those wanting to be be future *Information Architects!*

Information Architecture is essential. *Information Architecture is elemental.*


# World IA Day 2019

February 23, 2019

## Global theme: Design for Difference

62 locations, 26 Countries, 5 Continents

<figure><img src="https://github.com/WorldIADay/organizer-guide/blob/master/branding/WIAD19/WIAD19_theme_illustration/WIAD19_designfordifference.png?raw=true" alt="WIAD19 theme illustration by Sketch Squad"><figcaption><p>Design for Difference, illustration by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SketchSquad123/">Sketch Squad</a>.</p></figcaption></figure>

As designers, we are responsible for creating worlds of experiences, environments, services, and systems that impact millions of people – with lasting impacts. While we don’t have a Hippocratic Oath, it’s important for us to follow a similar goal to “do good” and “do not harm.” It is our responsibility as IAs to consider the consequences and impact our design decisions have on humanity and society as a whole.

Research is a foundational step in the design process. It ensures that we understand and account for diverse user needs within communities, both in our own domains and globally.

So, what differences are we designing for?

* Difference in ability and disability
* Difference in access to information and technology
* Difference in language and cultural understanding
* Difference in age, gender, and identity
* Difference in experience

There is no average user. There is no norm.

> “Different is the new normal we should be designing for.”\
> inclusive design strategist Elise Roy at the 2018 IA Summit in Chicago.

How do we as information architects and designers design for this difference? What is this difference that we’re designing for? How can we better understand it and become more engaged and mindful for our different and diverse users? How might we communicate this understanding to others and provide more meaning and depth?

> We build worlds. Let’s do it responsibly.

### Locations celebrating WIAD on February 23, 2019

### **Acknowledgement**

Theme description crafted with contributions and feedback from Peter Morville, Andrea Resmini, Kaarin Hoff, Noreen Whysel, Paul McAleer, and Stuart Maxwell

Theme illustration by [Sketch Squad](https://www.facebook.com/SketchSquad123/), a student organization at Purdue University, that specializes in making ideas and information visually compelling.


# World IA Day 2018

## Global theme: IA for good

Each year locations around the world curate content based on a global theme. This year our theme is "IA for Good".

We would like you to think in the direction of how might we use IA to protect human civilization from misinformation. One way to approach the topic is to consider that nowadays we struggle to make sense of the abundance of information and sources. We don’t know who to trust, so we believe what we want and can be easily manipulated. Some digital places are enabling ignorance, hate, alienation, and polarization to grow.


# World IA Day 2014

Archive of World IA Day 2014 exploring how to "make the world a better place through information architecture" across 24 global locations.

## Global theme: Making the world a better place through information architecture

![](/files/RthZQcK6IxgmEdDXN4Ng)

### About 2014's Theme

World IA Day 2014 will discuss how we can <mark style="background-color:purple;">**use IA thinking to make the world a better place**</mark>. While this may sound idealistic, we think it will inspire speakers to take both the academic and business-centric ideas of our industry to push the boundaries of what we can achieve through IA. Making the case to ourselves, traditional business, and all others, of IA’s ability to make positive change.

### Global Impact

* **24 Locations**
* **15 Countries**

### Locations

Buenos Aires, Argentina\
Antwerp, Belgium\
São Paulo, Brazil\
Zagreb, Croatia\
Budapest, Hungary\
Hermoupolis, Syros, Greece\
Tehran, Iran\
Milan, Italy\
Siracusa, Italy\
Tokyo, Japan\
Warsaw, Poland\
Bucharest, Romania\
Johannesburg, South Africa\
Barcelona, Spain\
Bristol, United Kingdom\
Ann Arbor, MI, United States\
Chicago, IL, United States\
Charlotte, NC, United States\
Des Moines, IA, United States\
Los Angeles, CA, United States\
Miami, FL, United States\
New York, NY, United States\
Portland, OR, United States\
Washington, DC, United States

### WIAD 2015

Looking ahead to next year's World IA Day:&#x20;

***


# World IA Day 2013

February 9, 2013

## Global theme: Exploring and expanding the ontologies of information architecture

<figure><img src="/files/yU2pzyzeMY7JRt8I0KNF" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

World IA Day 2013 brings an international community of academics, practitioners, technologists and business leaders together for a global conversation about "the architecture part" of information architecture.

On February 9, 2013 you can learn from world-class IA minds, network with your peers, showcase new ideas and attend events tailored specifically to your community. We hope you’ll join us at an event near you!

This 2nd annual World IA Day is run entirely by volunteers, and funded entirely by gracious sponsors.

## **WIAD Locations in 2013**

**1 DAY. 15 CITIES. 12 COUNTRIES.**

No two World IA Day programs will be the same—and everyone’s welcome to participate. That means if you’re a student, IA practitioner, or just someone who has an interest in IA, it’s a great chance to get engaged, and network with like-minded folks in your part of the world who know and love IA.

* Los Angeles, United States | Coordinator: Alberta Soranzo, UXPA
* Budapest, Hungary | Coordinator: Judit Pónya, Krisztián Dutka
* Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Coordinator: Katral-Nada Hassan
* Bristol, United Kingdom | Coordinator: Nomensa
* Nashville, United States | Coordinator: Laura Creekmore, Laurie Kalmanson, Steve Downey
* New York, United States | Coordinator: Abby Covert, Noreen Whysel
* Bogotá, Colombia | Coordinator: Fundación Universitaria Sanitas
* Sao Paulo, Brazil | Coordinator: Carol Leslie, Ana Coli, Alessandra Nahra
* Milan, Italy | Coordinator: Wellnet S.r.l.
* Bucharest, Romania | Coordinator: Ana-Maria Bogdan, Marius Ursache
* Paris, France | Coordinator: Sylvie Daumal, Grandin Donovan
* Canberra, Australia | Coordinator: Donna Spencer
* Johannesburg, South Africa | Coordinator: Jason Hobbs | Exploring and Expanding the Ontologies of Information Architecture
* Tokyo, Japan | Coordinator: Kazumichi Mario Sakata, Rakuten, Inc. | The Collective Wisdom of Information Architecture
* Ann Arbor, United States | Coordinator: SOCHI

#### LOCAL CONNECTIONS. GLOBAL IMPACT. WORLD IA DAY 2013.

## **WHAT IS WORLD IA DAY?**

On February 9, 2013 the IA Institute and a team of global sponsors and local coordinators will convene fifteen meetings all around the world in support and celebration of information architecture.

In some of the languages and regions we practice in, the words for “architecture” and “design” are quite different; in others: it’s the same word. Wouldn’t it be marvelous to understand if, when and how the discourses of architecture and design diverge and overlap?

In 2013, the Information Architecture Institute seeks to facilitate a global conversation about “the architecture part” of IA and to focus the 2nd annual World IA Day on generating ideas and artifacts that allow greater understanding of what we mean when we say “architecture” and when we say “design” in our research and practice.

***World IA Day 2013: Exploring and expanding the ontologies of information architecture.***


# World IA Day 2012

February 11, 2012

## Global theme: Designing Structures for Understanding

The first ever World IA Day focuses on Designing Structures for Understanding. On February 11, 2012, we hosted WIAD events in 14 cities across all corners of the globe. Learn from world-class IA minds, network, showcase new ideas, and attend events tailored specifically to your community.

<figure><img src="/files/eK1dzENnMPjOzZmXnNVd" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 1 DAY. 14 CITIES.

World IA Day 2012 is about bringing the Information Architecture community together. We’re fostering links within local communities and on a global scale. We’re sharing information, ideas and research. And we’re doing it through unconventional, exciting and engaging IA events this February.

The first ever World IA Day focuses on Designing Structures for Understanding. On February 11, 2012, we’re hosting WIAD events in 14 cities across all corners of the globe. Learn from world-class IA minds, network, showcase new ideas and attend events tailored specifically to your community. We hope you’ll join us at an event near you this February!

## Global keynotes

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Speaker</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Peter Morville</td><td><a href="/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/sj24IHKFOAkAAvJd1kIl">/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/sj24IHKFOAkAAvJd1kIl</a></td></tr><tr><td>Lou Rosenfeld</td><td><a href="/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/IYsQxPiqC6mEIvp2YPi1">/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/IYsQxPiqC6mEIvp2YPi1</a></td></tr><tr><td>Jorge Arango</td><td><a href="/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/5DnPqyKy78SPO73kRXV1">/spaces/baSlLofx8dFkZzTEdS1i/pages/5DnPqyKy78SPO73kRXV1</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Attend World IA Day 2012

### **Why Participate?**

Participating in World IA Day 2012 as an attendee or presenter lets you:

* Share your scholarship, experiences, and ideas
* Hear presentations from key members of the IA community
* Network with local peers
* Connect with a local and global audience
* Re-energize yourself and get excited about your work
* Deepen and expand your understanding of IA
* Get a chance to speak at IA Summit 2012 and write an article for the Journal of IA

### **Participate in WIAD 2012**

We’re hosting World IA Day 2012 events in 14 cities globally on Saturday, Feb. 11. Each city’s event will be different, but all will focus on information architecture and this year’s theme, Designing Structures for Understanding.

All events zone in on IA topics and are designed to connect with your local IA communities. No one location will be the same—and everyone’s welcome to join. That means if you’re a student, IA practitioner, or just someone who has an interest in IA, it’s a great chance to drop by, get engaged and network with like-minded folks who know and love IA.

Plus, many locations will offer the chance for you to present your work and IA expertise.

We encourage local events to be free for members – however, autonomy at the local level is a virtue. Each event will be run by local coordinators and will be as low cost as possible.&#x20;

<br>


# Locations

Participating locations in World Information Architecture Day since 2012

Since 2012, World IA Day has created community impact in over 183 cities across 57 countries, establishing a global network of information architecture practitioners and enthusiasts.

## A

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><a href="/spaces/3I2LghSILCoy0SQQviw9">Akron, Ohio, United States</a></td><td>2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Alberta, Canada</td><td>2021, 2022, 2024</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA</td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Antwerp, Belgium</td><td>2014</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Atlanta, Georgia, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Austin, Texas, United States</td><td>2016, 2018, 2019, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## B

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Baltimore, Maryland, United States</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/Tmt0SGRtdO30jE3do5JM">Barcelona, Spain</a></td><td>2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2024</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bari, Italy</td><td>2016, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Beirut, Lebanon</td><td>2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Belo Horizonte, Brazil</td><td>2017, 2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bengaluru, India</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Berlin, Germany</td><td>2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bogotá, Colombia</td><td>2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2025</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Boise, Idaho, United States</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bologna, Italy</td><td>2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Boston, Massachusetts, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Brazil / Brasil</td><td>2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bristol, England</td><td>2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Brno, Czech Republic</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Brussels, Belgium</td><td>2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Bucharest, Romania</td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Budapest, Hungary</td><td>2013, 2014, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Buenos Aires, Argentina</td><td>2013, 2014, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## C

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Calgary, Alberta, Canada</td><td>2013</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Campinas, Brazil</td><td>2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Canberra, Australia</td><td>2013, 2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Casablanca, Morocco</td><td>2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Cebu City, The Philippines</td><td>2020, 2021, 2022, 2023</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/4pvVzmVXAywUMK1VtY5f">Cesena, Italy</a></td><td>2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Charlotte, North Carolina</td><td>2014, 2015, 2017, 2024, 2022</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Chicago, Illinois, United States</td><td>2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Cincinnati, Ohio, United States</td><td>2020, 2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Cluj-Napoca, Romania</td><td>2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/8qlgm8zgQsHNFPTBc3Bn">Columbus, Ohio, United States</a></td><td>2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Copenhagen, Denmark</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Córdoba, Argentina</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Cranbury, New Jersey, United States</td><td>2013</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## D

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Dallas, Texas, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Denmark</td><td>2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Denver, Colorado, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2019, 2020 </td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Depok, Indonesia</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/OGpOY7oipyGVbEpmehVU">Des Moines, Iowa, United States</a></td><td>2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Detroit, Michigan, United States</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Dubai, United Arab Emirates</td><td>2013, 2015, 2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Dublin, Ireland</td><td>2021, 2024</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## E

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Edmonton, Alberta, Canada</td><td>2015, 2018, 2019. See <strong>Alberta</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Egypt</td><td>2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Eindhoven, <a href="/spaces/fOsCmlhsG1H00ucdSDid">The Netherlands</a></td><td>2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Enschede, <a href="/spaces/fOsCmlhsG1H00ucdSDid">The Netherlands</a></td><td>2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## F

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Fukuoka, Japan</td><td>2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## G

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Genk, Belgium</td><td>2013</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Genoa, Italy</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Ghent, Belgium</td><td>2012, 2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## H

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Havana, Cuba</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Hermoupolis, Greece</td><td>2014</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Hong Kong</td><td>2017, 2018, 2019, 2023, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Houston, Texas, United States</td><td>2019, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Hyderabad, India</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## I

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Iași, Romania</td><td>2017, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Indianapolis, Indiana, United States</td><td>2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Iran</td><td>See <strong>Tehran</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Israel</td><td>2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Istanbul, Turkey</td><td>2015, 2016, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Italia</td><td><ol start="2021"><li>See Cesena, Milan, Rome</li></ol></td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## J

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Johannesburg, South Africa</td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Jönköping, Sweden</td><td>2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Jordan</td><td>2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## K

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Kampala, Uganda</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kent, Ohio, United States</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020. See <strong>Akron</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kiev, Ukraine</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kigali, Riwanda</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia</td><td>2012</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kyiv, Ukraine</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Kyoto, Japan</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## L

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Lansing, Michigan, United States</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Lima, Peru</td><td>2016, 2018, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Lisbon, Portugal</td><td>2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Ljubljana, Slovenia</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/2hYS6VKZcqTxXP6SM6w1">London, United Kingdom</a></td><td>2016, 2017, 2021, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Long Beach, California, United States</td><td>2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/nVXBBJiVs7TwAxtRRwZE">Los Angeles, California, United States</a></td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Lowlands, The Netherlands</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Lyon, France</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## M

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Madison, Wisconsin, United States</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Malaysia</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Malmö, Sweden</td><td>2012</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Manchester, England</td><td>2017, 2018, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Manila, The Philippines</td><td>2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Mar del Plata, Argentina</td><td>2017, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Medellín, Colombia</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Melbourne, Australia</td><td>2016, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Mendoza, Argentina</td><td>2016, 2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Mexico City, Mexico</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td>Miami, Florida, United States</td><td>2014, 2016, 2017, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/OBjCCIxda3yp5EmewMig">Milan</a>, Italy</td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States</td><td>2017, 2019, 2020, 2022. See <strong>Twin Cities</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Monterrey, Mexico</td><td>2017, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Montevideo, Uruguay</td><td>2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Montréal, Canada</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Moscow, Russia</td><td>2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Mumbai, India</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Munich, Germany</td><td>2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## N

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Nairobi, Kenya</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Nantes, France</td><td>2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/i3WlwAxLJ3nlva0W3eZZ">Nashville, Tennessee, United States</a></td><td>2013, 2019, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/fOsCmlhsG1H00ucdSDid">The Netherlands</a></td><td>See <strong>Eindhoven</strong>, <strong>Utrecht</strong></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>New Delhi, India</td><td>2018, 2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>New Hampshire, United States</td><td>2023</td><td><span data-option="rratBAbChWqA">Seeking organizers</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/DIJlEC5meGAfUkmA5t2R">New York, New York, United States</a></td><td>2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand</td><td>2023</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Niš, Serbia</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## O

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Okinawa, Japan</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Oman</td><td>2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Ottawa, Ontario, Canada</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Ouro Preto, Brazil</td><td>2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## P

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Padova, Italy</td><td>2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Palermo, Italy</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Panama City, Panama</td><td>2012</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Paris, France</td><td>2012, 2013, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Pescara, Italy</td><td>2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/Sze55NwkMkGRABrHkJLV">Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States</a></td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Phoenix, Arizona, United States</td><td>2016, 2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Pilsen, Czech Republic</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Portland, Oregon, United States</td><td>2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Prague, Czech Republic</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/jdcgaVArTdDf1jeV4a5s">Providence, Rhode Island, United States</a></td><td>2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Puebla, Mexico</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## R

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Raleigh, North Carolina, United States</td><td>2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Rhein-Neckar, Germany</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/CMP9kmRxncOZ5vStAqQT">Richmond, Virginia, United States</a></td><td>2016, 2017, 2019, 2023, 2024, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Riyadh, Saudi Arabia</td><td>2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Rome, Italy</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## S

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Saint Petersburg, Russia</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Salt Lake City, Utah, United States</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Antonio, Texas, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Diego, California, United States</td><td>2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Francisco, California, United States</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Gabriel Valley, California, United States</td><td>2019, 2020. See <strong>Los Angeles</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Jose, California, United States</td><td>2021, 2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>San José, Costa Rica</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>San Salvador, El Salvador</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Santiago, Chile</td><td>2015, 2018, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>São Paulo, Brazil</td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Saudi Arabia</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Seattle, Washington, United States</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023</td><td><span data-option="amULlYZp68Tj">Dormant</span></td></tr><tr><td>Seoul, South Korea</td><td>2025</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Shenzhen, Guangdong, China</td><td>2016</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Silicon Valley, California, United States</td><td><ol start="2019"><li>See <strong>San Jose, California</strong></li></ol></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Singapore</td><td>2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Siracusa, Italy</td><td>2014</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Sofia, Bulgaria</td><td>2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>St. Paul, Minnesota, United States</td><td><ol start="2016"><li>See <strong>Twin Cities</strong></li></ol></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Stockholm, Sweden</td><td>2016, 2017, 2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://wiadswitzerland.org/">Switzerland</a></td><td>See <strong>Zurich</strong></td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Sydney, Australia</td><td>2012, 2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## T

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Tampa Bay, Florida, United States</td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Tegucigalpa, Honduras</td><td>2020, 2021, 2022</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Tehran, Iran</td><td>2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Thessaloniki, Greece</td><td>2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/spaces/upyGkbfyBMDu2IlCXLEY">Tokyo, Japan</a></td><td>2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Toronto, Ontario, Canada</td><td>2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://wiad.edu.pl/wiad/">Toruń, Poland</a></td><td>2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Toulouse, France</td><td>2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Trento, Italy</td><td>2018, 2019</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Trento &#x26; Verona, Italy</td><td>2017</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Twin Cities, Minneapolis, United States</td><td>2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## U

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Utrecht, The Netherlands</td><td><ol start="2018"><li>See <strong>The Netherlands</strong></li></ol></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>UX Research and Strategy (group)</td><td>2024</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## V

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><a href="/spaces/ysuZev2JArG6yp63Ugr0">Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada</a></td><td>2012, 2017, 2018, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr><tr><td>Verona, Italy</td><td>2018</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Vicenza, Italy</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Victoria, British Columbia, Canada</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Viña del Mar, Chile</td><td>2017, 2018, 2019, 2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## W

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Warsaw, Poland</td><td>2013, 2014, 2015</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Washington, DC, United States</td><td>2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Wellington, New Zealand</td><td>2015, 2016. See <strong>New Zealand</strong></td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td>Wyoming, United States</td><td>2020</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

## Z

<table><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th width="402.106201171875">Years active</th><th>Status<select><option value="25pr4krNWbKA" label="Active" color="blue"></option><option value="amULlYZp68Tj" label="Dormant" color="blue"></option><option value="rratBAbChWqA" label="Seeking organizers" color="blue"></option><option value="1upgEwMxynSS" label="Inactive" color="blue"></option></select></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Zagreb, Croatia</td><td>2014</td><td><span data-option="1upgEwMxynSS">Inactive</span></td></tr><tr><td><a href="https://zurich.worldiaday.ch/">Zürich, Switzerland</a></td><td>2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026</td><td><span data-option="25pr4krNWbKA">Active</span></td></tr></tbody></table>

{% hint style="info" %}
**Help us improve**

Help us improve the WIAA website by reporting errors, missing information, or technical problems.

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/report-issue" class="button secondary">Report an issue</a>
{% endhint %}


# Call for organizers

Host World IA Day in your area! Join 20+ global locations. Get free resources, templates & community support to organize.

## Bring World IA Day to your city

Join a global movement of <code class="expression">page.vars.NumofLoc</code> celebrating information architecture. Whether you're planning your first event or continuing a local tradition, we provide everything you need to create a successful celebration in your community.

{% hint style="danger" %}
Applications for World IA Day 2026 are now closed.
{% endhint %}

***

## Why organize?

Here are the key reasons people organize World IA Day events:

| Professional development                                                                                | Community impact                                                  | Knowledge sharing                                          |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| To develop leadership skills through the organizing experience                                          | To build and strengthen the local IA community                    | To share knowledge and promote good practices in the field |
| To provide speaking and presentation opportunities for local practitioners                              | To raise awareness about IA as a practice                         | To fulfill a need in their region or community             |
| To gain organizing experience by continuing a successful tradition that people look forward to annually | To create networking opportunities for professionals and students | To help develop emerging markets in the IA field           |

<p align="center"><i class="fa-lightbulb-on">:lightbulb-on:</i> <br>"Whether you have 10 people in a coffee shop or 300 in a theater, your goal is the same; provide a place and time to discuss and learn about information architecture."</p>

<p align="center">— Abby Covert, co-founder of World IA Day </p>

***

## What's involved?

As a local organizer, you'll lead the celebration in your city while being part of a global community. Here's what to expect:

#### Your responsibilities

* **Secure a venue** - from coffee shops to conference halls, we support events of all sizes
* **Curate content** - presentations and activities that explore information architecture, ideally connecting to our annual global theme
* **Build a local team** - recruit co-organizers, speakers, photographer, and volunteers
* **Handle logistics** - marketing, registration, day-of-event coordination
* **Connect globally** - participate in organizer community and maintain communication with our Global Team

#### Time commitment

* **Timeline:** July through March (9 months)
* **Monthly time:** 5-40 hours depending on your event size and team structure
* **Peak periods:** September-November (planning), February-March (final preparations)

#### What we provide

* **Free brand assets** - logos, slide templates, marketing materials
* **Website presence** - dedicated location page on worldiaday.org
* **Email setup** - professional email address for your location
* **Global community** - access to organizer message board and shared resources
* **Guidelines and templates** - proven frameworks from 60+ successful locations
* **Ongoing support** - dedicated Global Team volunteers to help you succeed

*Most organizers find the experience rewarding enough to return year after year.*

***

## Ready to bring World IA Day to your city?

#### How to apply

We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. The earlier you apply, the more time you'll have to plan an amazing celebration.

{% hint style="danger" %}
Applications for World IA Day 2026 are now closed.
{% endhint %}

#### What happens next

1. **Submit your application** - tell us about your vision and local community
2. **Review process** - we'll evaluate your application within 2 weeks
3. **Welcome and onboarding** - accepted organizers receive resources and join our global community
4. **Start planning** - begin building your team and securing your venue

#### Key dates for 2026

* **Applications open:** July 2025
* **Priority deadline:** October 2025 (for maximum planning time)
* **Final applications:** <code class="expression">page.vars.WIADApplication\_Close</code>
* **World IA Day 2026:** March 7, 2026

#### Application tips

* **Show community connection** - demonstrate your involvement in the local community
* **Think collaborative** - applications with co-organizers or team members are stronger
* **Research your market** - check if there's been a previous celebration in your area
* **Be realistic** - start with what you can manage and grow over time

#### Questions before applying?

**Contact the global team:** <code class="expression">page.vars.ProducerEmail</code>

**Explore the organizer guide:** [World IA Day Organizer Guide](https://www.information-architecture.world/world-ia-day-organizer-guide/)

*Remember: You can reach out to potential sponsors, venues, and speakers before applying, but please clarify that you're applying to represent World IA Day, not yet officially organizing.*

***

## In their own words

> It's something I brought to Poland, I like doing it, it's needed and it's my official task now. ;)
>
> — Weronika Kortas, WIAD22 Torun, Poland

> Experience is great in preparing a conference and in organizing, communicating with people interested in IA
>
> — Annina Brügger, WIAD Zürich, Switzerland

> We would like to continue to build a community and local presence of content creators, designers, practitioners, and enthusiasts in the similar field here in Cebu.
>
> — Janice Padreganda, World IA Day Cebu City, The Philippines

[See all past locations](/worldiaday/locations)

***

## Frequently asked questions

### Getting started

<details>

<summary>What does it mean to be a local organizer?</summary>

Each World IA Day celebration is hosted by one or more individuals. You will represent your location by leading a team and organizing the celebration.

Location organizers are in charge of all the details for the local celebration such as:

* Securing a venue for the celebration. It could be a conference hall, an educational institution, or a coffee shop.
* Curating presentations or other content that promote an understanding of IA preferably in the context of our selected global theme.
* Funding the celebration. We encourage events of all sizes, shapes and forms. From small informal gatherings to large conference style events, it is up to you and what you feel will work in your community.
* Leading a local team (including a photographer and videographer).
* Marketing the celebration to your community.
* Maintaining open communication and a participatory spirit with the Global Team.

</details>

<details>

<summary>What qualities do you look for in an organizer?</summary>

We are a community of like-minded professionals and enthusiasts who share the common goal of teaching, learning, and shaping the future of Information Architecture. We do this out of passion and not for financial gain. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.

You may be the lead organizer for your WIAD event, but we highly recommend that you recruit a co-organizer and or a dynamic team of decision-makers to help you.  World IA Day is a community event where **building communities**, **empowering leaders**, and **growing together** have been our driving principles since the beginning. Having a co-organizer or team will strengthen your application.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I reach out to potential sponsors, venues or speakers before applying?</summary>

Yes. Committed sponsors, venues, and speakers will strengthen your application. However, our expectation is that you are clear, explaining that you do not officially represent World IA Day and are applying to host a celebration in your location.

</details>

### Event logistics

<details>

<summary>My location is small. Can I still apply?</summary>

Yes. Even if your location is small, which could include living in a smaller town or a less populous region, we would love to have you apply. Celebrations of any size are welcome.&#x20;

If you're curious, you might want to check the [full list of locations](/worldiaday/locations) to see if there was a celebration nearby.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Is the application accepted on a first come, first serve basis?</summary>

No, not necessarily. Each location has to reapply annually and we value the relationships we have built along the way. If more than one individual applies for the same location, we encourage collaboration but reserve the right to select organizers based on their existing contributions to the community at large.

Each location must have a unique organizer. We do not permit one person to run multiple celebrations.

</details>

<details>

<summary>What is the time commitment?</summary>

It depends on the size of your celebration and how you structure your team. Some locations with larger celebrations spend on average about 40 hours per month. Other locations hold small gatherings which equate to 5 hours per month.

The commitment runs from July to March and in most cases we offer local organizers the opportunity to renew their commitment each year.

</details>

### Application process

<details>

<summary>Can there be more than one event per location?</summary>

We encourage members of the community who have a shared interest in bringing World IA Day to their location to work together collaboratively. The general rule of thumb is to ask yourself whether another celebration in your region would cause competition for resources and attendees.

</details>

<details>

<summary>After I apply, how soon should I expect to hear from you?</summary>

We accept location applications on a rolling basis. We expect to notify accepted location organizers within 2 weeks after submission.

If you're applying before August 30, we may still be updating assets and resources.&#x20;

</details>

<details>

<summary>What support should I expect as a local organizer?</summary>

World IA Day is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. We are here for you and have structured our Global Team to help support locations around the world. Each of our locations receives resources (e.g. brand assets, slides templates, sample marketing materials, a location page on our website, an email address etc.), guidelines and learnings from other locations, and access to an internal message board used by all local organizers worldwide.

As a nonprofit, World IA Day can also provide access to:&#x20;

* Ti.to for event registration management
* Vimeo for video storage
* Canva for social media asset creation

Contact the GEP team for details: <code class="expression">page.vars.ProducerEmail</code>

</details>


# World IA Café

Monthly speaker series connecting global IA professionals and enthusiasts. Explore current topics, share practical experiences, and strengthen the information architecture community.

Emerging from the desire to keep IA conversations alive beyond annual conferences, World IA Cafe brings together practitioners, researchers, and thinkers from across the globe to share ideas, questions, and challenges that shape how we design, structure, and understand information.

Each month, we feature speakers who share their expertise on various aspects of information architecture. Sessions include a presentation followed by discussions.

***

## Get involved

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Title</th><th>Teaser</th><th data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Link</th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Propose a talk</strong></td><td>Share your experience and give a talk</td><td><a href="/pages/TlXQiQXMPGhGhxn50VTV">/pages/TlXQiQXMPGhGhxn50VTV</a></td><td><a href="/files/5VZyYflK7voLmIiK2NfF">/files/5VZyYflK7voLmIiK2NfF</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Volunteer</strong></td><td>Join the team and keep the conversations going</td><td><a href="/pages/Bhro0OYStyiZxBciwewR">/pages/Bhro0OYStyiZxBciwewR</a></td><td><a href="/files/p98zoBPwCAMxZraoSr7s">/files/p98zoBPwCAMxZraoSr7s</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Subscribe</strong></td><td>Get notifications whenever new events are scheduled</td><td><a href="https://luma.com/worldiacafe">https://luma.com/worldiacafe</a></td><td><a href="/files/2EPJv21IFjdhShbLLdrB">/files/2EPJv21IFjdhShbLLdrB</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Volunteer team

This program is organized by the World Information Architecture Association and supported by Rutgers University Master Program. Presenters are volunteers who want to share their insights about information architecture.

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th>Title</th><th data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Dr. Rupananda Misra</strong></td><td>Program lead</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupamisra/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupamisra/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Nehar Sultana</strong></td><td>Program coordinator</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/neharsultana/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/neharsultana/</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Grace Lau</strong></td><td>Advisor</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracelau/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracelau/</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Café Talks


# IA models with ROI and hidden costs

### **About the event**

​Susan will be showing a few use cases to explain how a structured Information Architecture (IA) can help a start-up gain control of scattered documentation, reduce wasted effort, and strengthen operational credibility, resulting in saved staff time, company costs, and client trust.

### ​About the speaker

Susan Kraft Yorke is a technical writing consultant with more than 30 years in the tech industry. She spent most of my career in Palo Alto, California, and now works from home in the Hudson Valley near New York City. My technical background started as a geophysicist and in the fine arts. Her beginnings influence how she approaches complex systems and communication.

​She specializes in information architecture and developer documentation for startups, growth-stage companies, and global enterprises. Her work focuses on diagnosing documentation breakdowns, architecting scalable publication systems, and leading large-scale documentation migrations. She helps organizations reduce search time, eliminate content deadwood, and restore trust in their documentation through structure, governance, and measurable outcomes.

​She brings both in-house and consulting experience, grounding IA decisions in real systems, real constraints, and real operational impact. Her first IA project was in 2019 at Intuit. It's been an eye-opening experience ever since.

​Susan's LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/susankraft-yorke/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/susankraft-yorke/?utm_source=luma)

Susan's website: <https://www.susankraftconsulting.com/>

***

### Event recording

Vimeo: [https://vimeo.com/worldiaday/ia-models-with-roi-and-hidden-costs](https://vimeo.com/worldiaday/ia-models-with-roi-and-hidden-costs?share=copy\&fl=sv\&fe=ci\&utm_source=luma)

***

### Key Takeaways<sup><sub>\*<sub></sup>

* Organizations lose approximately 20% of employee productivity daily due to poor information architecture and documentation retrieval failures
* The shift from controlled documentation systems to decentralized wikis created unregulated digital publishing without proper governance
* A mid-sized service firm can realize approximately $1.3 million in benefits over three years through updated IA infrastructure
* AI governance infrastructure can leverage existing IA structural frameworks, but requires understanding that value lies in retrieval and knowledge infrastructure, not just physical and transactional systems
* The ROI equation for IA improvements is: (Total Benefits - Total Investment) / Total Investment × 100%
* Total investment includes recurring costs (compliance blind spots, 20% daily search time, duplication, author interruptions) and one-time costs (file sorting, structure design, migration, testing)
* Information architects must speak the language of finance and business to overcome resistance to change, addressing concepts like valuation gaps and productivity leakage
* Companies often remain stuck at operational maturity levels despite size and age, indicating poor information management practices

<sup><sub>\*Zoom AI generated<sub></sup>

***

### Q\&A<sup><sub>\*<sub></sup>

* How do you calculate total benefits in the ROI equation, since it feels very broad?
  * Financial benefits include the cost of 20% daily productivity loss, which requires analysis to measure actual time wasted. Benefits also include reduced support costs (fewer calls about how things work), compliance improvements (hospitals sometimes can't find required documents during reviews), elimination of documentation duplication, reduced rewriting of existing content, and decreased author interruptions. For example, at Intuit, engineers writing tools for marketing and sales were constantly interrupted by calls asking where documentation was located, as it was scattered across GitWiki, Confluence, Google Docs, and three other platforms. Sometimes benefits include eliminating unused software licenses like Confluence seats. While not as precise as grocery bills or rent, these costs can be reasonably estimated.
* What's the best way to convince companies beyond showing calculations, especially when they see large numbers and say "not now, we'll do it later"?
  * The mistake was not talking to them about financial issues. Interview stakeholders like you would any subject matter expert to understand what's blocking them—some are afraid to know how bad things really are, others genuinely believe they don't have time, but they're losing time by not sharpening the axe. Business people will help more than engineering managers. If you can reach someone who considers business aspects, especially the valuation gap between finance and engineering output, they might not be aware of current trends since they rely on past knowledge. AI can help here—use it to craft better questions and presentations. The containment recipe approach (available on susancraftconsulting.com under the AI channel) shows how to create tight AI questions that go beyond treating it like Google, always asking it to "self-analyze and try again" for better responses.
* What cases have you observed where using LLMs actually makes a difference?
  * It made a difference for me in writing markdown documentation by knowing my style guide through long-term memory. For 700-800 files migrated from multiple wikis and Confluence to GitHub for a think tank group, AI helped ensure style guide consistency. You must give it long-term memory instructions—mine is 5 pages for technical writing and research. For every request, use a containment recipe: who they are, the goal, the task, the context, and output format. Keep it contained with guardrails.

<sup><sub>\*Zoom AI generated<sub></sup>

<br>


# Call for speakers

Share your IA expertise with global professionals. Join our monthly speaker series connecting practitioners worldwide through presentations and discussions.

World IA Cafe brings together information architecture professionals and enthusiasts from around the globe for monthly learning sessions. We're looking for speakers who can share practical insights, current challenges, and innovative approaches that shape how we design, structure, and understand information.

## What is World IA Cafe?

World IA Cafe is a monthly speaker series that serves as a regular touchpoint for the global IA community. Each session features expert presentations followed by interactive Q\&A discussions, creating collaborative learning opportunities that keep IA conversations alive beyond annual conferences.

## Who should speak?

We welcome speakers from all backgrounds and experience levels:

* **IA practitioners** sharing real-world project insights
* **Researchers** presenting current findings and methodologies
* **Design professionals** exploring IA applications in their work
* **Students and newcomers** offering fresh perspectives on established practices
* **Adjacent professionals** (content strategists, UX designers, data professionals) applying IA principles

## What topics work well?

We're interested in presentations that offer practical value to our diverse audience:

* Current IA challenges and innovative solutions
* Case studies from recent projects (with lessons learned)
* Emerging trends affecting information architecture practice
* Tools, methods, and frameworks that advance IA work
* Cross-disciplinary applications of IA principles
* Research findings with practical implications

## Session format

* **Duration:** 45-60 minutes total (20-40 minute presentation + \~20 minute Q\&A)
* **Format:** Virtual presentation via video conference (Zoom)
* **Audience:** Global, typically 20-50 attendees
* **Style:** Professional but conversational; interactive discussion encouraged

## Ready to share your expertise?

We review proposals on an ongoing basis and typically schedule speakers 2-3 months in advance. Allow a few weeks for a response to your submission.

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/cafe-talk" class="button primary" data-icon="arrow-right">Propose a talk</a>

#### Questions?

Contact Nehar Sultana at <nehar.sultana@worldiaday.org>.

***

*World IA Cafe is hosted by volunteers from the World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) and is free to attend for all participants.*


# Call for volunteers

World IA Cafe volunteer opportunities

World IA Cafe is our monthly discussion series that brings together information architecture professionals from around the globe for informal conversations about IA topics, challenges, and innovations. We're looking for volunteers to help us maximize the impact of these valuable discussions and reach a broader international audience.

## Current volunteer opportunities

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Title</th><th>Summary</th><th>Description</th><th>Time commitment</th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><h3>Video content optimization and management</h3></td><td>Help transform our rich video discussions into discoverable, accessible content.</td><td><p></p><ul><li>Use AI tools like NotebookLM to create summaries and key takeaways from Cafe video recordings</li><li>Write video descriptions with proper metadata and keywords for better searchability</li><li>Optimize video titles, tags, and descriptions across Vimeo and YouTube platforms</li><li>Create timestamp markers for key discussion points and topics</li><li>Organize video content in our searchable digital library</li></ul></td><td>4-6 hours per month (flexible scheduling)</td><td><a href="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528109966604-5a6a4a964e8d?crop=entropy&#x26;cs=srgb&#x26;fm=jpg&#x26;ixid=M3wxOTcwMjR8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHx2aWRlb3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3NTc4MDI3OTN8MA&#x26;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&#x26;q=85">https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528109966604-5a6a4a964e8d?crop=entropy&#x26;cs=srgb&#x26;fm=jpg&#x26;ixid=M3wxOTcwMjR8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHx2aWRlb3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3NTc4MDI3OTN8MA&#x26;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&#x26;q=85</a></td></tr><tr><td><h3>Social media strategy for World IA Cafe</h3></td><td>Expand our international reach and boost participation in monthly Cafe sessions.</td><td><p></p><ul><li>Create engaging social media posts to promote upcoming Cafe sessions and speakers</li><li>Develop content calendars specifically for Cafe event promotion</li><li>Share video highlights and key quotes from past discussions</li><li>Connect with international IA communities to increase global participation</li><li>Track engagement metrics and audience growth for Cafe-related content</li></ul></td><td>3-4 hours per month (flexible scheduling)</td><td><a href="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1683721003111-070bcc053d8b?crop=entropy&#x26;cs=srgb&#x26;fm=jpg&#x26;ixid=M3wxOTcwMjR8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxzb2NpYWwlMjBtZWRpYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3NTc4MDI4MTJ8MA&#x26;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&#x26;q=85">https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1683721003111-070bcc053d8b?crop=entropy&#x26;cs=srgb&#x26;fm=jpg&#x26;ixid=M3wxOTcwMjR8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxzb2NpYWwlMjBtZWRpYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3NTc4MDI4MTJ8MA&#x26;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&#x26;q=85</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Skills we're looking for

**Helpful but not required:**

* Interest in information architecture, UX, or related fields
* Basic writing and communication skills
* Social media familiarity
* Video editing or content creation experience

**We'll teach you everything else!** Our volunteer training covers:

* Video optimization and metadata best practices
* Content management systems and tools
* Social media strategy and analytics
* Writing for web and professional audiences

***

## Ready to get involved?

Contact our volunteer coordinator at <volunteer@worldiaday.org>

***

*World IA Cafe is hosted by volunteers from the World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) and is free to attend for all participants.*


# Taxonomy Talk

Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge.

A community of theory and practice supported and maintained by volunteers of the World IA Association. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies even as just part of their job. ​

Most importantly, the community is open to all and encourages aspiring practitioners to join to network with, communicate with, and learn from current practitioners. [Join us today](/taxonomy-talk/join-the-discord)!

<figure><img src="/files/a86hLxSE7VUwA2HglIP0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

### Get involved

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards" data-full-width="true"><thead><tr><th>Headline</th><th>Description</th><th data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Volunteer</strong></td><td>Join the mod team to keep Taxonomy Talk welcoming and collaborative.</td><td><a href="/pages/haVlpBrhV5EWiCXsfg2S">/pages/haVlpBrhV5EWiCXsfg2S</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Propose a talk</strong></td><td>Share your experience and give a talk about what you do in this area of work.</td><td><a href="/pages/ZonjzvWSNlfQuyoqdDzR">/pages/ZonjzvWSNlfQuyoqdDzR</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Subscribe</strong></td><td>Stay informed with events through the events calendar.</td><td><a href="https://lu.ma/TaxonomyTalk">https://lu.ma/TaxonomyTalk</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### Recent events

Explore Taxonomy Talk events featuring expert speakers on taxonomy, ontology, and information architecture.&#x20;

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards" data-full-width="false"><thead><tr><th>Event title</th><th>Speaker</th><th>Event date</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Link</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Taxonomies in Content Graphs</strong></td><td>Ian Piper</td><td>April 25, 2025</td><td><a href="/pages/jbu0lwGhW3wZYJrCHUta">/pages/jbu0lwGhW3wZYJrCHUta</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Clothing Sizes: A L/34W/EU 50 Problem</strong></td><td>Laura Horan, Eidvilė Bagdonaitė, Charlie Lapin</td><td>November 12, 2024</td><td><a href="/pages/u9Zrtkw5HN4Z5HBG9yxn">/pages/u9Zrtkw5HN4Z5HBG9yxn</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Taxonomy Assessment: Quantitative Analytics, Qualitative Best Practices and Heuristics</strong></td><td>Joseph Busch</td><td>June 4, 2024</td><td><a href="/pages/2Ljz5LoJmHwTET5RdvOS">/pages/2Ljz5LoJmHwTET5RdvOS</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

<a href="https://lu.ma/TaxonomyTalk" class="button primary">See the event calendar</a>

***

### Community team

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Name</th><th>Role</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref">LinkedIn</th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Bob Kasenchak</td><td>Co-founder</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-kasenchak/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-kasenchak/</a></td><td><a href="/files/hFg4fLFB9dDwNpp4vOd9">/files/hFg4fLFB9dDwNpp4vOd9</a></td></tr><tr><td>Heather Hedden</td><td>Community advisor</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hedden/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/hedden/</a></td><td><a href="/files/bGTduErfhdrnaNt2tSpG">/files/bGTduErfhdrnaNt2tSpG</a></td></tr><tr><td>Connor Cantrell</td><td>Community moderator</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cantreco/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/cantreco/</a></td><td><a href="/files/FwumiQwnTW9HvOMyEui0">/files/FwumiQwnTW9HvOMyEui0</a></td></tr><tr><td>Grace Lau</td><td>Co-founder</td><td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracelau/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracelau/</a></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>


# Join the Discord

## Join the Taxonomy Talk Discord

Thank you for your interest in joining the Taxonomy Talk Discord! We're glad you want to share your perspective with our community. This page will help you understand how we to join us on Discord and start contributing.

### About Discord

Discord is a free group chat platform with text, audio, and video communication options. Be sure to [download the app to your device](https://discord.com/download) and consult [their Help Center](https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us) if you need help troubleshooting.

### About the Taxonomy Talk Server

Once you have Discord installed, [join our server](https://discord.gg/sxASAUQUEp) to get access to several channels covering a range of topics from ontological models to job searching to social connection.&#x20;

Be sure to introduce yourself in #introductions!

### Interested in getting more involved?

We're currently seeking community members to help support the Discord community. Find more information in [Call for community mods](/taxonomy-talk/call-for-community-mods).


# Call for speakers

## Taxonomy Talk Topic Proposal

Thank you for your interest in speaking at Taxonomy Talk! We're excited to learn about you and your ideas. This form helps us understand your proposed talk and how we can best support you in sharing your knowledge with our community.

### What to expect

* The form takes about 15-20 minutes to complete
* Don't worry if you don't have all the details figured out yet - we're here to help develop your ideas
* We welcome speakers of all experience levels, including first-time presenters
* After submission, we'll review your proposal and respond within \[timeframe]
* If selected, you'll be paired with a community moderator who can help you prepare for your talk

Remember, Taxonomy Talk is a supportive community. Whether you're sharing a case study from years of experience or insights from your first taxonomy project, we value your perspective and are here to help you succeed.

### Next steps

After submitting your proposal, we'll review it and get back to you within two weeks. Even if you're unsure about some details, we encourage you to submit - we're here to help develop your ideas and support you in creating a great talk!&#x20;

Questions? Email the mod team at **<TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>**

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/taxonomy-talk-proposal" class="button primary">Propose a talk</a>

***

### Get involved

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards" data-full-width="true"><thead><tr><th>Headline</th><th>Description</th><th data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Volunteer</strong></td><td>Join the mod team to keep Taxonomy Talk welcoming and collaborative.</td><td><a href="/pages/haVlpBrhV5EWiCXsfg2S">/pages/haVlpBrhV5EWiCXsfg2S</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Propose a talk</strong></td><td>Share your experience and give a talk about what you do in this area of work.</td><td><a href="/pages/ZonjzvWSNlfQuyoqdDzR">/pages/ZonjzvWSNlfQuyoqdDzR</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Subscribe</strong></td><td>Stay informed with events through the events calendar.</td><td><a href="https://lu.ma/TaxonomyTalk">https://lu.ma/TaxonomyTalk</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Call for community mods

## We’re looking for community moderators for Taxonomy Talk!

We're looking for 2-3 community members to help nurture our growing Discord community. As a moderator, you'll help maintain the welcoming, collaborative environment that makes Taxonomy Talk special.

### What we're looking for:

* Community members who can dedicate about an hour per week to browsing discussions and helping keep things running smoothly
* People interested in identifying engaging topics and potential speakers for our events
* Individuals who can respond to basic community needs and questions
* Those interested in helping the community become more self-organizing

The role is intentionally flexible and low-maintenance - we believe the best communities are those that can largely self-organize with minimal top-down governance.

### Moderators will:

* Be invited to casual meet-and-greets with the mod team
* Be added to notifications for new speaker and volunteer applications
* Help identify interesting discussions and themes from the community
* Assist with basic community management as needed

We value having moderators from different backgrounds and experience levels in the taxonomy field. You don't need to be a senior practitioner or well-known name--we're looking for engaged community members who care about fostering good discussions. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy being part of, we'd love to hear from you!

### Ready to Apply?

Fill out [the application form](https://forms.worldiaday.org/taxotalk-modapp)! We'll get back to you within two weeks with next steps.


# Taxonomies in Content Graphs

Taxonomies in Content Graphs: The Importance of Taxonomies in Building Graphs with Ian Piper

Friday, April 25, 2025\
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PDT

### ​**About This Event**

​Join us as taxonomist, ontologist and content architect Ian Piper reveals how taxonomies serve as the essential connective tissue in content graph development. In this practical session, you'll discover how SKOS taxonomies function as the "semantic glue" that holds together powerful content graphs. Content graphs are a special case of knowledge graphs that link content objects with matching taxonomy concepts and store the resulting “tagging facts” as semantic triples in a triple store.

​Ian will share actionable approaches for implementing taxonomies in graph environments, drawing from his extensive experience working with clients in banking, engineering, life sciences, and publishing.

### ​**What You'll Learn**

* ​How to design content to facilitate effective taxonomy tagging
* ​A real-world case study on transforming simple keyword lists into structured taxonomies
* ​Practical approaches to entity extraction for matching taxonomy concepts with content objects

### ​**Who Should Attend**

​This session is ideal for information architects, content strategists, knowledge managers, taxonomy specialists, and anyone interested in enhancing content relationships through semantic technologies.

### ​**About the Speaker**

​Ian Piper is the Director of [Tellura Information Services](http://tellura.co.uk/), specializing in designing and building information models, ontologies, and taxonomies for content classification. Following a career in pharmaceutical research, Ian established Tellura to deliver semantic web information services to clients across multiple sectors and countries. Follow Ian on LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianpiper/>&#x20;

***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

​*Registration is free but space is limited to 100.*&#x20;


# Clothing Sizes

Clothing Sizes: A L/34W/EU 50 Problem with Laura Horan, Eidvilė Bagdonaitė, and Charlie Lapin

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/1032409669>" %}

## Clothing Sizes: A L/34W/EU 50 Problem

​Vinted's secondhand fashion marketplace had a big problem to address: sizes. In addition to missing size schemes and missing values, incorrect international conversions confused buyers engaged in cross-border thrifting. Bridging this international size conversion gap was essential: improvements would allow sellers to upload in a size that is familiar and meaningful to them, while also enabling shoppers to feel confident that they’re getting an item that will fit.

​Through a case study of Men’s pant sizes, we’ll share what we learned about taxonomy and data modelling while working on improving sizes, including understanding just how vast and varied fashion sizing is worldwide; how to feel out the sweet spot between a perfect solution and an actionable minimum viable product; and how what might seem like a data model problem ultimately has larger UX and content design implications.

* Date/Time: Tuesday, November 12, 2024 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM PST
* Speakers: Laura Horan, Eidvilė Bagdonaitė, Charlie Lapin

### ​Meet the speakers

#### ​**Laura Horan**

​Laura is a Berlin-based taxonomist at Vinted, Europe’s leading secondhand retail platform. Prior to working at Vinted, she spent 5+ years working on expansions, global alignment, and taxonomy improvements at Amazon. She has an MLIS from the University of Washington iSchool with a background in museums, non-profits, and instructional design.

#### ​**Eidvilė Bagdonaitė**

​Eidvilė is a product designer based in Vilnius, Lithuania working on the Ontologies team at Vinted, Europe’s leading secondhand retail platform. With a foundation in marketing tech and communications, she discovered her passion for design — a powerful approach to a wide array of challenges. At Vinted, she cherishes the opportunity to create experiences that support more sustainable consumption and resonate with millions of users across Europe

#### ​**Charlie Lapin**

​Charlie is a Berlin-based taxonomist at Vinted, Europe’s major secondhand retail platform. Prior to starting at Vinted, he worked as a taxonomist at Amazon specializing in home improvement categories as well as attribute creation and management. He received his BA and MISt from McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>


# Taxonomy Assessment

Taxonomy Assessment: Quantitative Analytics, Qualitative Best Practices and Heuristics with Joseph Busch

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/961243057>" %}

* Date/Time: Tuesday, June 4, 2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PDT
* Speaker: Joseph Busch

​In the same way we obsess over keyword rankings, do you wonder if your content is organized effectively and how to optimize the categories and taxonomic structure? While we know we should proactively analyze overall taxonomy effectiveness—the distribution of content to categories, number of views per category, etc.—there is a tendency to focus on the content, and not the categories. This talk will describe how to do taxonomy assessment periodically and ongoing as an integral part of website instrumentation. How to flip analytics to get the category level analysis, how to construct a set of qualitative practices that can generate taxonomy metrics which identify categories to merge or split, and some specific scorecards against which your taxonomy can be evaluated.

### ​Meet Joseph Busch

​Mr. Busch is an authority in the field of information science, with an emphasis on helping organizations develop metadata frameworks and taxonomy strategies to ensure that content realizes its highest value through re-use and re-purposing. He has extensive knowledge and experience developing content architectures consisting of metadata frameworks, taxonomies and other information management methods to implement effective applications. He is currently on a full-time assignment as the senior business classification analyst for the African Development Bank which is based in Abidjan in the Côte d’Ivoire.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Presentation" %}
{% embed url="<https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1f_PlyCKleP6nmmrBPFVltw8HQz9Vgf3y/edit?ouid=111708535532422935371&rtpof=true&sd=true&usp=sharing>" %}

{% endtab %}
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***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>


# How the Sausage Gets Made

How the Sausage Gets Made: What is a 'Content Supply Chain'? with Laura Langford

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/913495764>" %}

​What happens to those all-important keywords, vocabularies, and facets when they finally get to retrieval and 'consumption'. A platform-agnostic understanding of how data gets delivered, and a discussion of best practices so as not to lose our objectives in the midst of multiple and sometimes conflicting workflows.

* Date/Time: Friday, February 2, 2024 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PST
* Speaker: Laura Langford

### ​Meet Laura Langford

​Laura has worked in the trenches of digital production since 2005. Most recently, she worked for Adobe Customer Solutions (AEM) and Caterpillar (OpenText Media Manager) as a DAM Strategist and DAM Librarian. She has deep experience with the day-to-day challenges of content delivery and management. Her favorite aspect of digital marketing is, of course, asset organization/curation and creating metadata schemas and taxonomy supporting asset lifecycle. She enjoys getting deep in the weeds with developers and technical architects, as this is crucial to ensuring streamlined content delivery. She looks forward to sharing her knowledge of the data delivery 'metaverse'.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Presentation " %}
{% embed url="<https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fvhUou-PNeNtK5sdbsNgxU3NSkxRLpNp/view?usp=sharing>" %}

{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>


# Language Metadata Table (LMT)

Language Metadata Table (LMT): Streamlining Language Metadata for the Real World with Meg Morrissey

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/884060353>" %}

​The LMT is a metadata standard that provides language codes, endonyms, and display values vetted by language experts. Meg Morrissey, Co-Chair of the LMT, will give an overview of the standard and how it is governed.

* Date/Time: Monday, November 13, 2023 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PST
* Speaker: Meg Morrissey

### ​About Meg Morrissey

​Meg Morrissey is a librarian, taxonomist, and Co-Chair of the Language Metadata Table, a standard for language codes used across media and entertainment. She spent the last decade polishing metadata and establishing data governance and DAM best practice for companies large and small, including the Walt Disney Studios, Netflix, and KraftHeinz.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Presentation" %}
{% embed url="<https://drive.google.com/file/d/1huQhNOh8TgRhFoFlscVs-3e-d9Nce3Me/view?usp=sharing>" %}

{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Resources" %}
​<https://www.mesaonline.org/lmt>

​Interested in volunteering? Reach out to the Co-Chairs: <LMT@mesaonline.org>
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>

***


# ​Topic Taxonomies are the Worst

Bob Kasenchak

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/838467273>" %}

* Date/Time: Wednesday, June 21, 2023 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM PDT​
* Speaker: Bob Kasenchak

One primary tension in taxonomy construction is between best practices (as defined by various taxonomy standards) and practical (business) requirements.

​That is: the tension is between categorization according to **what things are** versus **where people will look for them**.

​How can we balance or reconcile these priorities? Can we model our way out of them? And what are the options?

​This issue is paramount in Topic taxonomies; Topic or Subject taxonomies are very common and present specific modeling challenges.

​People are used to navigating topic-oriented structures. It is common sense to put things where people will find them; however, that does not mean that it’s also Good Taxonomy Practice.

​In this talk, I’ll address the difference between Concepts and Topics, outline some of the challenges in building these types of taxonomies, and offer a number of practical solutions for addressing them.

### ​About Bob Kasenchak

​Bob is an information architect at [Factor Firm](https://factorfirm.com/). As taxonomist and ontologist with an interest in knowledge graphs and Linked Data, he has worked for over a decade building and implementing taxonomy projects for publishing, enterprise, technology, and e-commerce clients. He brings experience with information modeling and semantic software to client-focused metadata and vocabulary projects.

​A frequent writer and presenter on semantic topics in conferences and journals, Bob’s current research interests include ontologies, knowledge graphs, and text classification. Still active teaching and playing music, Bob has been a member of the local ensemble Gamelan Encantada for the past several years. He lives in Albuquerque with his wife.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Presentation" %}
{% embed url="<https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V4IGBarhOWuIV1UVopKqckN7Q3NHLMsC/view?usp=sharing>" %}

{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

***

### Hosted by Taxonomy Talk

​Taxonomy Talk is a Discord community that is open to anyone working within information architecture and knowledge organization spaces, no matter their level of experience or knowledge. This includes people who work on, manage, or are responsible for taxonomies *even as just part of their job*.

***

### ​Questions? Comments?

Contact the moderator team at <TaxonomyTalk@worldiaday.org>


# WIAA Open Office Hours

Once a quarter, the World IA Association hosts an open one-hour session. Meet the community, ask questions, and join from anywhere. Free and open to all.

Join the World IA Association for a quarterly one-hour session to hear updates, ask questions, and meet the community.

### About Open Office Hours

Open Office Hours is a relaxed, open conversation. It is not a webinar.

There is no presentation to watch first. Join live, introduce yourself if you want, and participate as much or as little as you like.

Each hour has three parts:

* **We share what's happening.** We give a short update on the Association: World IA Day, the IA Certificate Program, World IA Café, the website, and ways to get involved.
* **We open the floor.** Bring your questions, share what you're working on, or just listen. This is your time with the people behind WIAA and others in the community.
* **We record the update, not the discussion.** We record and post the opening update afterward. The open conversation stays off the record, so everyone can speak freely.

<a href="https://luma.com/vimg83uu" class="button primary">Save your seat</a> <a href="https://luma.com/world-ia-association" class="button secondary">Get calendar reminders</a>

### Next session

#### September 3, 2026 at 8 AM Pacific

The series launches on September 3, 2026.

This is a good place to start if you're new to WIAA. The first session focuses on two topics:

* **The IA Certificate Program.** Thinking about enrolling in the fall pilot? Meet the instructors, hear how the courses work, and ask anything before the Foundations course begins in mid-September.
* **World IA Day 2027.** Curious about hosting or helping organize an event in your city? We will walk through the call for locations and how to get started.

> *Held on Zoom. Register for the session and we'll send the calendar invite, the Zoom link, and a reminder before it starts.*

### How it works

**Join from anywhere.** Sessions run on Zoom. Register on the event page and we'll send the link and a reminder. No account or membership required.

**No background required.** You do not need prior IA knowledge or past attendance. Newcomers, students, seasoned practitioners, and past organizers are all welcome.

**Catch up afterward.** We record and post the opening update so you can catch up on the news even if you could not make it live. The open discussion is not recorded.

### Schedule

We meet **quarterly**. Upcoming sessions:

| Session                         | Focus                                                                     |
| ------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **September 2026** *(launch)*   | IA Certificate Program info session, World IA Day 2027 call for locations |
| December 2026 (to be announced) | World IA Day 2027 update                                                  |
| March 2027 (to be announced)    | World IA Day debrief, State of IA                                         |
| June 2027 (to be announced)     | Mid-year community check-in, IA certificate program update                |

*Themes shift with the community calendar, but the open conversation is always part of each session.*

<a href="https://luma.com/world-ia-association" class="button secondary">Get calendar reminders</a>

### Who it's for

* **Newcomers** curious about information architecture and where to start
* **Students and career-changers** exploring the field
* **Practitioners** who want a regular place to connect between conferences
* **Past and future World IA Day organizers** looking to plug back in
* **Anyone** who has wondered what the World IA Association actually does

### Why we do this

The IA community has few regular spaces to connect between major events. World IA Day comes once a year. In-person conferences are expensive and far between.

Open Office Hours offers a simple, recurring way to stay connected to the work, the Association, and each other.

We are a volunteer-run, global association. Staying connected depends on people continuing to show up for one another.

*— The World IA Association co-presidents*

### Register

**Register for the next session below.**

{% embed url="<https://luma.com/vimg83uu>" %}

*We'll only use your email to send event invitations and reminders. See our* [*Privacy Policy*](https://www.information-architecture.world/policies/privacy-policy)*.*


# Blog

All the latest news and updates from World Information Architecture Association

## Featured updates

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Topic<select><option value="pmWuBcl2ytiE" label="Organizational updates" color="blue"></option><option value="mGnmbHv3mLcn" label="World IA Day" color="blue"></option><option value="pXNK1PsD3UcD" label="Future of WIAA" color="blue"></option><option value="6PaygXwjBT67" label="Partnerships" color="blue"></option><option value="7nsj1d4BCiUN" label="Education" color="blue"></option></select></th><th data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Title</th><th></th><th data-hidden></th><th data-hidden data-type="number"></th><th data-hidden>Contributor</th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><span data-option="7nsj1d4BCiUN">Education</span></td><td><a href="/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV">/pages/KiK7joUREKolBgUnJSCV</a></td><td>27 Apr 2026</td><td></td><td>null</td><td></td><td><a href="/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv">/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="pXNK1PsD3UcD">Future of WIAA</span></td><td><a href="/pages/UNpoIStTZWgWBRWGhfyD">/pages/UNpoIStTZWgWBRWGhfyD</a></td><td>9 Mar 2026</td><td></td><td>null</td><td></td><td><a href="/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv">/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="6PaygXwjBT67">Partnerships</span></td><td><a href="/pages/XmFYC3gao4GEYwdBlRtQ">/pages/XmFYC3gao4GEYwdBlRtQ</a></td><td>11 Feb 2026</td><td></td><td>null</td><td>by Grace Lau</td><td><a href="/files/UDj8SVMR2B3YUhRiTsly">/files/UDj8SVMR2B3YUhRiTsly</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="pXNK1PsD3UcD">Future of WIAA</span></td><td><a href="/pages/jeioYCYphZRuAJIaG1zu">/pages/jeioYCYphZRuAJIaG1zu</a></td><td>7 Feb 2026</td><td></td><td>null</td><td>by Grace Lau</td><td><a href="/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv">/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="pmWuBcl2ytiE">Organizational updates</span></td><td><a href="/pages/WQDnMa2sl5mwgc9POsgg">/pages/WQDnMa2sl5mwgc9POsgg</a></td><td>1 Sep 2024</td><td></td><td>null</td><td>by Xander Roozen, Grace Lau</td><td><a href="/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv">/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv</a></td></tr><tr><td><span data-option="pmWuBcl2ytiE">Organizational updates</span></td><td><a href="/pages/N0T2616YQwCkYvCSwvt9">/pages/N0T2616YQwCkYvCSwvt9</a></td><td>7 Dec 2021</td><td>Introducing the new World Information Architecture Association</td><td>2025</td><td>by Grace Lau</td><td><a href="/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv">/files/XJfN8Kz3ELItVrXtqcNv</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Latest news and updates

* [Introducing the WIAA IA Certificate Program](/blog/2026/introducing-the-wiaa-ia-certificate-program)
* [To what end do we design? The heart of Information Architecture](/blog/2026/to-what-end-do-we-design-the-heart-of-information-architecture)
* [WIAA partners with UXtweak](/blog/2026/11-feb-2026-uxtweak-partnership)
* [A recap on the 2025 Future of WIAA workshops](/blog/2026/a-recap-on-the-2025-future-of-wiaa-workshops)
* [Everything Flows. And So Does WIAA.](/blog/2025/12-nov-2025-everything-flows-and-so-does-wiaa)
* [World Information Architecture Day 2026 on DESIGNING FOR MEANING](/blog/2025/world-information-architecture-day-2026-on-designing-for-meaning)
* [Andrea Resmini to be Global Keynote Speaker for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/andrea-resmini-to-be-global-keynote-speaker-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Join us for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/join-us-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)

***


# 2026

* [Introducing the WIAA IA Certificate Program](/blog/2026/introducing-the-wiaa-ia-certificate-program)
* [To what end do we design? The heart of Information Architecture](/blog/2026/to-what-end-do-we-design-the-heart-of-information-architecture)
* [WIAA partners with UXtweak](/blog/2026/11-feb-2026-uxtweak-partnership)
* [A recap on the 2025 Future of WIAA workshops](/blog/2026/a-recap-on-the-2025-future-of-wiaa-workshops)


# Introducing the WIAA IA Certificate Program

Structured IA courses covering core concepts, content and findability, and emerging technologies. Fall 2026 pilot is free.

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

**27 April 2026** — The World IA Association is launching a certificate program in information architecture. The program is designed for working professionals who want to build or deepen their IA practice through structured, hands-on learning

### What the program includes

The WIAA Information Architecture (IA) Certificate Program is a growing series of courses designed to build practical, industry-relevant skills in information architecture. Each course runs for four weeks and includes one live session per week, along with assigned readings, discussions, and a hands-on project that can be applied directly to your own work or portfolio.

The first three courses launching in our Fall 2026 pilot are:

* Introduction to Information Architecture — IA fundamentals, including IA's role in product design, its relationship to UX, and the principles that underpin how people find and understand information.
* Content, Structure, and Findability — Content modeling, organization systems, governance, and how content structure affects search and AI discovery.
* AI and Information Architecture — How to design IA for AI systems and discovery, with attention to accessibility and equity.

These three courses form the foundation of the certificate. Additional courses will be added as the program grows. Courses can be taken as a full certificate sequence or individually.

### Who this is for

This program is designed for UX designers, content strategists, product designers, and career changers who want to develop practical IA skills. Courses are taught by information architecture practitioners with 15+ years of experience in the field.

Pricing will be geographically tiered when paid enrollment opens, to make the program accessible to professionals in different economic contexts.

### The Fall 2026 pilot

The pilot runs from August through November 2026, with one course per month. Enrollment is capped at 10 students per course and is free. We're offering the pilot at no cost to learn alongside our first cohort — gathering feedback and refining the program before we move to paid offerings.

Registration opens in June. To be notified, [sign up for the interest list](https://forms.worldiaday.org/certificate-interest).

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/certificate-interest" class="button primary">I'm interested!</a>

Questions? Reach out to <education@worldiaday.org>&#x20;

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# To what end do we design? The heart of Information Architecture

Insights from the WIAA Workshop in Japan: Coexisting with AI and reclaiming the foundations of design

By: Soyeon Lee

<figure><img src="/files/K2Mfiu9cY9BuLgSTTsGx" alt=""><figcaption><p><a href="https://www.digital.go.jp/resources/govdashboard">@Digital Agency</a></p></figcaption></figure>

**9 March 2026** — The World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) hosted workshops in December 2025 to understand the rapidly evolving industry landscape and explore future directions.

The session in Japan, one of three global workshops, focused on dialogue, providing insights that are summarised in this article, while an overview of all sessions is available in a separate article.

{% content-ref url="/pages/jeioYCYphZRuAJIaG1zu" %}
[A recap on the 2025 Future of WIAA workshops](/blog/2026/a-recap-on-the-2025-future-of-wiaa-workshops)
{% endcontent-ref %}

The original Japanese article is available here.\
(日本語記事はこちらを参照してください)

{% embed url="<https://medium.com/@soyeon.lee/%E7%A7%81%E3%81%9F%E3%81%A1%E3%81%AF%E4%BD%95%E3%81%AE%E3%81%9F%E3%82%81%E3%81%AB%E8%A8%AD%E8%A8%88%E3%81%99%E3%82%8B%E3%81%AE%E3%81%8B-%E6%83%85%E5%A0%B1%E3%82%A2%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AD%E3%83%86%E3%82%AF%E3%83%81%E3%83%A3%E3%81%AE%E5%8E%9F%E7%82%B9%E3%81%A8%E6%9C%AA%E6%9D%A5-856742b2351c>" %}

### **Challenges facing Information Architects** <a href="#e4af" id="e4af"></a>

#### The ivory towering of IA <a href="#id-71dc" id="id-71dc"></a>

Abstract discussions have become the main focus over the gritty work on the ground, creating a gap with practical application.

The massive response to the “Little IA Summit” — held as an antithesis to these big ideas — is proof that many people are seeking IA that is useful in practice.

#### UI-first development without architecture <a href="#aa5e" id="aa5e"></a>

An increasing number of projects skip the foundation work and start building directly from the UI, resulting in an overflow of difficult-to-use apps and websites.

The [Digital Agency](https://www.digital.go.jp/en)’s inception during the pandemic reaffirmed IA as a structural necessity.

***Background:** During the pandemic, the Japanese government faced a wake-up call when its digital infrastructure proved inadequate. Many platforms were nearly unusable, making it difficult for citizens to apply for subsidies or complete essential administrative tasks.*

*This led to the establishment of the Digital Agency, an entity tasked with creating unified design guidelines to ensure better usability across all public services.*

#### **Difficulties in talent development** <a href="#id-90bd" id="id-90bd"></a>

Since IA requires constant knowledge updates, education is forced to rely primarily on on-the-job training.

In Japan, there is a scarcity of approachable textbooks, and the reality is that the famous “Polar Bear Book” is a high hurdle for beginners. The industry struggles with the difficulty of nurturing young talent and a chronic shortage of mid-level professionals.

### Changes brought by AI <a href="#id-367b" id="id-367b"></a>

#### The cannibalisation of AI and humans <a href="#b0ce" id="b0ce"></a>

We are facing external pressure to just let AI handle it during the formative stages — the very moments when humans should be deeply exploring problems and shaping ideas. It is a state where AI is stripping away the joy of human thought.

Even at the structural level, AI produces outputs that seem correct at first glance, yet many are fundamentally flawed. However, to the untrained eye, the difference is indistinguishable. By the time architectural holes are pointed out, it is often too late to turn back.

While the core tasks of an Information Architect remain beyond the reach of AI, the real danger lies in the pervasive illusion that the work has already been automated, even when it has not.

#### **The “AI says so” bias** <a href="#c73a" id="c73a"></a>

As everyone begins sending around quick AI-generated outputs, the opportunity for deep thought is being lost. We see an increase in copy-paste work that ignores context — what is referred to in English as “AI workslop.”

More people are also beginning to trust an AI-generated rebuttal over a human expert’s opinion. When an expert conducts a heuristic evaluation and recommends “Option B,” more people are using AI to push their own preference for “Option A,” claiming, “According to AI, your expert opinion is wrong.”

#### Substandard learning sources <a href="#id-1b18" id="id-1b18"></a>

AI learns from the vast resources of the internet, and this presents a critical challenge: the poor quality of its learning sources. If the existing data being referenced is fundamentally flawed, the accuracy of the AI’s output will naturally be compromised.

For example, the reality is that many websites currently online have abysmal accessibility support. Consequently, AI-generated answers regarding accessibility are often shallow and poorly informed.

The same holds true for the field of information architecture; when the learning sources are substandard, the intelligence they produce is equally hollow.

#### When AI helps: Crisis management and high-speed execution <a href="#id-791e" id="id-791e"></a>

AI is useful in emergencies — such as when a client is angry — to process vast amounts of data instantly and manage the immediate situation.

It also serves as an ally in ultra-high-speed brainstorming sessions where quantity is prioritised over quality. In these moments, AI offers practical support.

### **Which mindset should guide the future of information architecture?** <a href="#ab2a" id="ab2a"></a>

#### Considering accessibility <a href="#id-5281" id="id-5281"></a>

The issue of accessibility exists as a foundation even before information design; it requires a perspective where accessibility itself impacts human rights. It is not yet fully understood that these efforts are essential for maintaining and ensuring human dignity.

Because this awareness has not yet taken root, we see a proliferation of touch-screen kiosks that many people find impossible to use. This happens because those on the design side fail to grasp the true essence of accessibility.

Once social design proceeds without this foundation, there is no easy way back. If we fail to act early, the resulting disconnect leads to a lasting social cost.

#### **Questioning the purpose of progress** <a href="#id-6993" id="id-6993"></a>

One participant shared an experience of a project that eliminated all physical touchpoints, opting instead to handle everything via the user’s smartphone.

The goal was to utilise space effectively and reduce staffing costs. However, once everything was removed, no one had an answer to the question: “Ultimately, what is it we want to achieve?”

We replace things with technology and keep stripping away devices without thinking about what comes next. People assume that if things disappear, it will be convenient and labour costs will fall — but the project charges ahead without anyone envisioning what kind of joy or happiness lies on the other side.

#### **Creating things that last** <a href="#id-1649" id="id-1649"></a>

Because the leadership of organisations changes frequently, it is difficult to implement foundational design from a long-term perspective.

However, architecture is inherently meant to be used for a long time. For this reason, the discussion emphasised a desire to re-communicate the importance of designing with the prerequisite of long-term use.

#### **Information architecture as a philosophy** <a href="#bb3b" id="bb3b"></a>

When creating something, one must not proceed while the principles or intention remain unclear. Design only truly exists when it is built upon clear philosophical foundations.

In that sense, we reached the conclusion that there is a need for education, a definitive white paper that everyone can relate to, and a place to communicate these ideas.

***

**Participants:**

* Shoji Ohashi ([World IA Day Tokyo](https://tokyo.worldiaday.org) organiser)
* Yu Morita (World IA Day Tokyo organiser)
* Yukiko Iwamoto (Information Architect)
* Xander Roozen (Co-president, WIAA)
* Soyeon Lee (WIAA, Facilitator)

***

Article was first published on [Medium](https://medium.com/@soyeon.lee/to-what-end-do-we-design-the-heart-of-information-architecture-19fe5ddc82d0) on 9 March 2026.

***

Tags: [Future of WIAA](/blog/topics/future-of-wiaa)

***

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# WIAA partners with UXtweak

WIAA announces partnership with UXtweak to bring research tools and build resources for information architecture practitioners, educators, and students worldwide.

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

Reviewed by Xander Roozen, Ghada Kandil, Tadeas Adamjak of UXtweak

***

**11 February 2026** — We're pleased to announce a new partnership between the World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) and UXtweak, an all-in-one user research platform.

This collaboration brings together WIAA's global community of IA practitioners, educators, and students with UXtweak's research expertise and comprehensive platform for testing, validation, and user research. Together, we're creating new pathways for evidence-based practice and strengthening the resources available to our community worldwide.

### Why this partnership matters

Information architecture is most effective when it's grounded in both research and real-world practice. UXtweak shares this commitment—not just through their platform, but through peer-reviewed academic research that tackles critical questions facing IA practitioners today.

Their research team has published studies exploring validation methods, user behavior patterns, and emerging applications of AI in Information Architecture practice. You can explore their full body of work in the [Research by UXtweak](https://www.uxtweak.com/research/) section of their website.

Eduard Kuric, UXtweak's Founder and CEO, shares WIAA’s vision for strengthening the global IA community:

> "Great user experiences start with great information architecture, and at UXtweak, we're thrilled to partner with WIAA to support the global community of IA professionals who make that happen every day. I've personally valued WIAA's work over the years, from World IA Day to the way they bring the global IA community together. We're honored to support this work and contribute our research and platform to help advance the field together."

Grace Lau, WIAA’s Co-President, on the partnership:

> "UXtweak's focus on both research and practical tools fits perfectly with what WIAA stands for. I'm excited to see how this partnership helps our community test ideas, validate approaches, and contribute to the knowledge that makes information architecture stronger for everyone."

### What's next

This partnership reflects WIAA's commitment to connecting the IA community with research expertise and practical resources. Through this collaboration, we're creating opportunities for IA practitioners and academics to contribute to research and share evidence-based approaches that strengthen the UX field.&#x20;

If you have ideas for research topics, educational programs, or ways we can better support your work in information architecture, we want to hear from you. Reach out to us at <info@worldiaday.org>.&#x20;

### About UXtweak

UXtweak is an all-in-one user research platform that helps teams recruit participants, run moderated and unmoderated studies, analyze data, and share insights in one place. Trusted by global brands, UXtweak provides tools for testing, research, and information architecture that help professionals create intuitive, evidence-based digital experiences.

Beyond a research platform, UXtweak is committed to bridging the gap between theory and practice and strengthening the IA and UX community. This is achieved through peer-reviewed research papers, the UX Research Geeks podcast, monthly live sessions with UX experts, the Women in UX project, and a growing collection of educational guides and videos.

Learn more at [www.uxtweak.com](https://www.uxtweak.com).

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# A recap on the 2025 Future of WIAA workshops

Insights from WIAA's 2025 Future of IA Workshops on AI transformation, market pressures, and IA's evolution from human comprehension to system logic to semantic models

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

Contributions from Xander Roozen, Katharina Staszkow, and Ghada Kandil. \
Reviewed by participants from the December 2025 Future of IA workshops. NotebookLM assisted with translation and compiling themes across audio recordings. Claude helped with rewriting

***

**7 February 2026** — In 2020, during the pandemic, World Information Architecture Association held its first Future of IA workshops to chart the direction of World IA Day after its separation from the IA Institute. Five years later, in December 2025, we convened again—this time to assess how information architecture has evolved, where the discipline stands today, and where WIAA can make the most impact moving forward.&#x20;

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="/files/U4Kaw96srjNAYt1OOOrV" alt=""><figcaption><p>Setting the stage</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/Anv56emjQxMMKiHI7bZn" alt=""><figcaption><p>How generative AI has impacted our work and community</p></figcaption></figure></div>

&#x20;Across three 90-minute sessions spanning different time zones, we brought together 13 World IA Day organizers, speakers, and UX practitioners from Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. These workshops were led by members of the global board, Soyeon Lee, Grace Lau, Xander Roozen, and Andrew Jung.

[Read more about the background and context of the workshops](https://www.information-architecture.world/blog/2025/12-nov-2025-everything-flows-and-so-does-wiaa).

We structured each 90-minute session into four conversations:

* **Introductions and context**: We started by learning where everyone's coming from—literally and professionally. Participants shared their current roles, what the job market looks like in their regions and how their day-to-day practice has evolved over the past five years.
* **Generative AI and IA**: We explored how AI is already changing specific tasks in our work, grappled with its ethical implications, and imagined how it might reshape information architecture over the next five years.
* **Supporting the community**: We asked what WIAA can do better. What formats would help you learn and grow? Masterclasses? Podcasts? How can we build stronger bridges to adjacent disciplines?
* **Looking ahead**: We closed by asking more questions: What parts of our profession should we keep, what needs to change, and what might be time to sunset? And what experiments could we run together this year to find out?

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="/files/uk1TUkfsrWSnkdR2Iov0" alt=""><figcaption><p>Explore how WIAA can best support you and the community</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/f9P04kV7MXWUoQ6t4uZO" alt=""><figcaption><p>Next steps for our community and the profession.</p></figcaption></figure></div>

### What we heard

Several themes emerged consistently across our conversations: the challenging state of the job market, how AI is reshaping our work, and what WIAA can do to support the community through these changes.

#### We’re navigating pressure.

Participants across all regions described navigating sustained complexity: shrinking resources, disappearing traditional roles, and mounting expectations. Yet beneath the fatigue lies a persistent commitment to keeping the field relevant and meaningful.

* **Mounting pressure**: Professionals are expected to accomplish "more in less time", with creative energy depleted by excessive meetings and workplace politics.
* **Evolution of IA roles**: Traditional IA job titles are transforming, rather than disappearing. The work is being absorbed into broader roles such as Product Designer or UX Strategist or elevated into specialized domains like semantic modeling, metadata strategy, and systems architecture.
* **Junior talent gap**: All sessions highlighted the struggle to train and hire new IA professionals. Junior roles have become scarce, forcing emerging designers to compete against experienced, recently laid-off candidates, or meet expectations equivalent to senior-level work. The traditional mentorship system for developing professionals is perceived as "lost".
* **Community engagement in transition**: Multiple participants recalled that the peak interest and engagement for major conferences and events occurred around 2015-6, with conference attendance dropping nearly 75% and World IA Day locations shrinking from 70 cities to 20. However, this may reflect a shift in how the community convenes rather than loss of interest in the discipline itself.

#### We’re structuring meaning for humans, systems, and AI models.

Generative AI is recognized as an accelerating factor in a transformation that's been building for years: information architecture has evolved through three distinct audiences. What started as organizing information for human comprehension (navigation, content hierarchies, findability) expanded to structuring data for system interoperability (APIs, databases, cross-platform consistency).&#x20;

Now, IA is entering a third phase: creating semantic models and ontologies that enable machine intelligence to understand, process, and generate meaningful content. Each layer builds on the previous one, but requires fundamentally different architectural thinking.

#### How this shift manifests in practice:

* **AI augments surface-level IA tasks**: Large Language Models can now draft site maps, generate taxonomies, and conduct content inventories—deliverables that once defined IA work at the human comprehension layer. Rather than eliminating the profession, this shifts IA work from producing these artifacts to evaluating whether they serve strategic goals, align with user mental models, and create scalable semantic infrastructure.
* **The role of human judgment**: Despite AI's capabilities, all sessions emphasized that human expertise remains essential, but its application has evolved. AI outputs are "cookie cutter" because they lack contextual understanding and strategic thinking. Human judgment now operates less on producing site maps and taxonomies and more on evaluating whether those structures align with business logic, user mental models, and long-term scalability.
* **IA as semantic infrastructure**: AI's generation of massive content volumes paradoxically increases the need for strong information architecture, but at the model layer. Organizations need robust ontologies, taxonomies, and conceptual models that give AI systems the semantic structure to generate coherent, strategically aligned content rather than syntactically correct chaos. However, this work is less visible than traditional user-facing navigation structures, making it easier for stakeholders to overlook or undervalue even as it becomes more critical.
* **The training data architecture problem**: AI struggles with foundational fields like IA and accessibility because the vast majority of online resources used for training contain poor-quality information architecture. This isn't just a data quality issue—it's an architectural feedback loop. IAs must now consider how their structural decisions become the examples that train future AI systems. Well-architected systems teach good practice; flawed structures perpetuate problems at scale.
* **Organizational pressure vs. architectural maturity**: Decision-makers are pushing teams to adopt AI and accelerate timelines without recognizing that effective AI implementation requires stronger information architecture across all three layers. The pressure to "just use AI" ignores that models need well-structured inputs (semantic models), systems need clear data architectures (interoperability standards), and users still need comprehensible outputs (interface clarity). Speed without structural integrity creates technical debt at every layer.

#### WIAA can help with building more knowledge infrastructure.

As IA practice evolves across human, system, and model layers, participants called for WIAA to provide updated resources and stronger connections both within the discipline and to adjacent fields.

* **Educational resources for contemporary practice**: Existing foundational IA books, while theoretically valuable, are often perceived as "too abstract" or "too difficult" for immediate application in today's AI-driven, multi-layer practice environments. Participants called for educational formats that bridge enduring principles with contemporary challenges:
  * Masterclasses that address working at system and model levels
  * Learning tracks on existing platforms that progress from interface-level to semantic architecture
  * Bite-sized, digestible content that make complex concepts accessible
  * Applied frameworks showing how traditional IA thinking translates to ontology design, data modeling, and AI system architecture
* **Interdisciplinary bridges beyond UX**: As IA work increasingly happens at system and model layers, the discipline must strengthen connections with fields that have always worked at these levels:
  * Database engineers and data architects who understand structural integrity and schema design
  * SEO specialists and knowledge engineers working with semantic relationships and discoverability
  * Library and information scientists who've formalized knowledge organization systems for centuries
  * Computational linguists and ontologists building semantic frameworks for AI

Participants emphasized that these aren't new relationships—they're reconnections to IA's historical roots outside of digital design. WIAA can facilitate structured knowledge sharing from senior practitioners to emerging IAs, not as nostalgia, but as translating enduring architectural principles for new contexts:

* Capturing how experienced IAs approach conceptual modeling (a skill that applies across all three layers)
* Documenting decision-making frameworks that remain relevant whether designing for humans, systems, or models
* Creating mentorship structures that help junior practitioners develop strategic architectural thinking, not just tool proficiency

While these needs were universal, the Asia-Pacific session placed particular emphasis on formalizing IA's theoretical foundations through academic rigor. Participants called for WIAA to create a "white paper" or canonical definition of information architecture that can anchor the discipline as it evolves. They also discussed the ongoing tension between "Big IA" (high-level conceptual and strategic work) and "Little IA" (hands-on practical tasks like wireframing)—a debate that led to the creation of Japan's Small IA Summit to champion essential practical work.

#### We need to make our work more visible.

As IA work moves to system and model layers—beneath interfaces and often invisible to stakeholders—participants emphasized the need to demonstrate tangible impact and make structural decisions visible.

* **Connecting architecture to business impact**: IA must articulate how structural decisions affect measurable outcomes: how normalized taxonomies reduce technical debt, how semantic models improve AI accuracy and reduce hallucinations, how ontological frameworks enable system interoperability that affects development costs and time to market. The challenge isn't just doing good IA work at the model layer—it's translating that work into business metrics stakeholders recognize.
* **Show the work, not just the outcomes**: Participants proposed executing and showcasing real-world projects (redesigning a government information system, architecting semantic models for LLM-powered public services) as "show and tell" demonstrations. Making IA processes visible helps stakeholders understand what happens between "we need better content" and "the system works." This is especially critical for system and model-level work that produces no visible interface.
* **Documenting the architecture of decisions**: While IA may not own ethical strategy, it plays a critical role in making structural choices traceable. Documenting why certain taxonomies were chosen, how semantic models prioritize certain relationships, what the ontology excludes—this creates accountability in how systems are architected. At the model layer, these decisions shape what AI can understand and generate, making documentation an ethical necessity.
* Teaching critical thinking to AI-native practitioners: WIAA's educational outreach should focus on cultivating curiosity in emerging professionals who've grown up with AI. Rather than accepting AI-generated taxonomies or semantic models at face value, the next generation needs to ask: Why is it structured this way? What assumptions are embedded? What alternatives exist? This critical architectural thinking is what separates using AI from designing intelligent systems.

#### We're struggling to navigate the workplace.

* Workplace advocacy and communication: A major concern for younger designers was the lack of preparation for navigating workplace politics, managing difficult stakeholders, and building confidence to advocate for design decisions.
* Management resistance: Mid-to-senior level practitioners expressed frustration with being pushed into management roles despite preferring to remain line-level contributors.

### What's Next

The input gathered through these workshops will inform WIAA's strategic direction as we work to prioritize initiatives and determine next steps. While we don't have a specific timeline for implementing changes, your feedback is helping us identify what matters most to our community and where to focus our efforts.

We want to hear from you. Community involvement doesn't end here. We encourage you to:

* Share ongoing feedback as ideas and priorities evolve
* Participate at [World IA Day](https://www.information-architecture.world/worldiaday), [World IA Cafe](https://www.information-architecture.world/worldiacafe), and [Taxonomy Talk](https://www.information-architecture.world/taxonomy-talk)
* Reach out directly with questions or suggestions at <info@worldiaday.org>

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in this process. Your insights, experiences, and perspectives are invaluable as we shape WIAA's future together. We're committed to keeping you informed as we move forward and look forward to your continued involvement.

***

Tags: [Future of WIAA](/blog/topics/future-of-wiaa)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2025

* [Everything Flows. And So Does WIAA.](/blog/2025/12-nov-2025-everything-flows-and-so-does-wiaa)
* [World Information Architecture Day 2026 on DESIGNING FOR MEANING](/blog/2025/world-information-architecture-day-2026-on-designing-for-meaning)


# Everything Flows. And So Does WIAA.

Announcing the 2025 workshop about the future of our association.

By: [**Xander Roozen**](/people/person/xander-roozen)**,** Co-president, WIAA

Reviewed by Grace Lau, Soyeon Lee, and Andrew Jung

***

**12 November 2025** — Five years ago, in June 2020, Grace Lau and Andrea Rosenbusch hosted *Future State of World IA Day.* A workshop that asked: *How might World IA Day adapt for tomorrow?*

We wanted to change the culture at World IA Day, to open up communication, and to make space for more voices in our community.

A lot has changed since then. What hasn’t changed is our drive to keep that conversation going, to ask whether our organization still serves the people it was created for.

That’s why on **December 4, 2025**, we’re hosting **three workshops** (for Asia, Europe, and the Americas) to once again ask: *Are we still doing the right thing?*

Before we look ahead, let’s take a moment to reflect on where we’ve come from.

***

### Flows <a href="#c445" id="c445"></a>

Every design discipline — and information architecture is no exception — evolves. Change comes from technological shifts, from social transformations, and from our own personal growth as practitioners. Often, all three happen at once.

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus called this *panta rhei* — “everything flows.”

Change is not a disruption; it’s the natural state of things. To stay alive, we must flow with it.

### From World IA Day to WIAA <a href="#id-47d7" id="id-47d7"></a>

World IA Day began in 2012 as a one-day event across 14 cities, hosted by the Information Architecture Institute (IAI). Founded by Abby Covert and Dan Klyn, its goal was to advance the practice and education of information architecture — empowering new leaders and amplifying the discourse of a young and sometimes contentious discipline.

In 2019, World IA Day transitioned from the IAI to become its own organization.

Around the same time, we witnessed the decline of other professional associations — Society of Technical Communication (STC), Special Library Association (SLA), Interaction Design Association (IxDA) — all raising important questions about sustainability and relevance for member-based communities.

By 2021, the global board recognized that the “World IA Day” label had grown beyond the annual event. To clarify our purpose, we split it into two:

* **World IA Day** — the annual celebration every [March](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)
* **WIAA, the World Information Architecture Association** — the global community that makes it all happen

From coffee shops to university halls across continents, WIAA connects educators, students, practitioners, and enthusiasts who share a passion for improving how humans interact with information.

Today, WIAA is home to **World IA Day**, **World IA Café**, **Taxonomy Talk**, and the global network of volunteers who bring these to life.

### States of Information Architecture <a href="#dc57" id="dc57"></a>

Over the past five years, we’ve been listening to the community through our *State of Information Architecture* studies (2020, 2021, and 2023). These studies offered a snapshot of a discipline in motion — growing, evolving, and adapting.

In **2020**, we found a field that was thriving in practice, even if the job title “information architect” was fading. Many practitioners, especially early-career ones, worked under titles like UX designer or researcher, yet performed the essential IA work of structuring, organizing, and connecting information.

By **2021**, the trend was clear: practitioners were wearing multiple hats. The boundaries between IA, UX, and strategy were blurring. The discipline’s influence was expanding — but its value was not always recognized inside organizations.

Then, in **2023**, our third and most global study reached nearly a thousand respondents in six languages. The results showed a confident, mature, and diverse community. Awareness of IA’s value had grown, even though challenges like visibility and recognition remained.

The tone was notably optimistic: IA had found new forms of expression — in content design, product strategy, and systems thinking — while staying true to its mission of *making the complex clear*.

Across these studies, one constant stands out: the commitment of the community. Practitioners continue to share knowledge, mentor others, and advocate for IA’s relevance in an ever-changing digital world.

### The Future State of WIAA <a href="#id-3287" id="id-3287"></a>

The idea of *panta rhei* reminds us that change isn’t a threat; it’s the condition of existence.

For an organization like WIAA — a living network of educators, students, and practitioners — listening is how we stay alive. We must keep asking:

Are we doing enough? And are we doing the right things?

Today, new forces are shaping our field: generative and agentic AI, evolving design roles, and shifting expectations for what it means to work with information.

Some in our community worry about being replaced by tools that promise to make humans redundant. But as WIAA member **Andrew Jung** recently asked, *“How do we make the elephant work for us?”*

That’s what this next workshop is about.

We invite you to join one of the three sessions on **December 4th** to share your perspective, your concerns, and your hopes for the next chapter of WIAA.

* ​Asia & Europe: [7 p.m. Hong Kong / 8 p.m. Tokyo](https://luma.com/puuq6gj7)
* Europe & Americas: ​[5 p.m. Central European time / 4 p.m. London](https://luma.com/7m9dcvcu)
* Americas & Asia: ​[5 p.m. Pacific time Los Angeles / 8 p.m. New York](https://luma.com/ls2115tk)

Our community has always been our compass, help us set the direction once again.

***

Tags: [Future of WIAA](/blog/topics/future-of-wiaa)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# World Information Architecture Day 2026 on DESIGNING FOR MEANING

World IA Day 2026 announces 'Designing for Meaning' theme. Explore how information architects create purposeful experiences worldwide March 7.

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

Reviewed by [**Xander Roozen**](/people/person/xander-roozen)**, Andrea Rosenbusch,** **Andrew Jung**, and **Jenny Sassi**

***

**27 July 2025** — World IA Day (WIAD) takes place every year on one day in locations around the world. Every year has a dedicated subject or theme, like [Curiosity](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2021), [A connected world](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2022), or [context](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2024). This year, we want to look at how Information Architecture (IA) can be used to design meaning.

### Designing for Meaning: Purpose, Experience, and Everything in Between

Information architects design for meaning in everything we create. We intentionally shape how people understand and navigate systems, ensuring our structures create meaningful experiences rather than confusion.

Meaning is what transforms data into knowledge. It helps people make sense of complexity and find what they need. As information architects, we design structures that create meaning. We organize content so people can understand it. We build systems that connect users to the information that matters to them.

Our work begins with purpose: understanding why information exists and what it should accomplish. It culminates in experience: how people actually encounter, understand, and use the information we've structured. Between purpose and experience lies the complex work of organizing, labeling, and connecting information in ways that bridge intent and reality.

Whether we design for humans navigating websites, create systems that work alongside AI, or organize information across different cultures, our intent remains constant: we deliberately structure information to create meaningful experiences that serve human purposes.

#### Why designing for meaning matters

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how information is created and shared. These technologies produce more content faster than ever before. But they also create challenges. How do we ensure AI-generated content has meaning? How do we design systems that remain understandable when machines are part of the process? What does it mean to be the human in the loop?&#x20;

Information architects can help solve these challenges. We understand how to create structure that supports meaning. We know how to organize information so it makes sense to people. We can design systems that are ethical, inclusive, and transparent.

The difference between a frustrating search and a satisfying discovery. Between feeling lost in information and feeling guided toward understanding. Between data that overwhelms and knowledge that empowers. These experiential outcomes are what we design for when we design for meaning.

#### How is meaning relevant to information architecture?

This theme can include diverse perspectives and applications:

* Designing for meaning with AI: How do we intentionally structure AI-integrated systems to create meaningful experiences?
* Understanding different cultures: How do different communities organize and understand information? How can we design more inclusive systems?
* Aligning purpose with practice: How do we ensure our design decisions serve clear purposes and create meaningful outcomes?
* Making complexity understandable: How do we help people navigate complex information? What structures create clarity?
* Building ethical systems: What responsibilities do we have as information architects? How do we design systems that are fair and transparent?
* Everything in between: The daily work of connecting users, content, and context in meaningful ways.

### Acknowledgements

Thanks to the people who suggested themes and community members who participated in the selection process. Special recognition to Charlley Luz and Angela Obias-Tuban whose suggestions inspired the final theme.&#x20;

### Visit or organize a World IA Day event!

Interested in joining us on March 7, 2026, to add to the discussion about meaning? Keep out an eye for a [location near you](https://www.worldiaday.org/events) or [apply to host your own WIAD26 event](https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad26-locations).

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2024

* [Andrea Resmini to be Global Keynote Speaker for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/andrea-resmini-to-be-global-keynote-speaker-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Join us for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/join-us-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Theme of World IA Day 2025-Challenging Changes](/blog/2024/theme-of-world-ia-day-2025-challenging-changes)
* [Xander Roozen joins WIAA as Co-President](/blog/2024/xander-roozen-joins-wiaa-as-co-president)
* [2023 State of Information Architecture](/blog/2024/2023-state-of-information-architecture)
* [World Information Architecture Association Seeking Co-President](/blog/2024/world-information-architecture-association-seeking-co-president)
* [Thank you Andrea for four-years co-presidency! Now, what’s next?](/blog/2024/thank-you-andrea-for-four-years-co-presidency-now-whats-next)
* [Project Proposal for a New World Information Architecture Website](/blog/2024/project-proposal-for-a-new-world-information-architecture-website)


# Andrea Resmini to be Global Keynote Speaker for World Information Architecture Day 2025

Discover how information architecture is evolving with AI and digital innovation. Join Andrea Resmini's keynote at World IA Day 2025 to explore IA's future and foundational principles.

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

***

**9 November 2024** — The World Information Architecture Association is pleased to announce **Andrea Resmini** as the global keynote speaker for World Information Architecture Day (WIAD25) taking place on March 8, 2025. The theme of WIAD25 is “**Challenging Changes: Adapting Information in an Evolving World**,” and Resmini will share his perspective on the history and future of information architecture (IA) in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Resmini, an accomplished academic and practitioner in IA, has a distinguished career marked by impactful contributions to the field. He was a key figure in the establishment of World IA Day 13 years ago and continues to be a respected voice in the IA community. He will draw upon his extensive experience and insights to address the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and the increasing integration of digital information within physical spaces.

### About Andrea Resmini <a href="#id-5260" id="id-5260"></a>

Andrea Resmini is associate professor of experience design and information architecture in the Department of Intelligent Systems and Digital Design at Halmstad University, where he works with the conceptualization and design of blended spaces and blended experiences and researches exploratory and speculative tabletop game making. An architect turned information architect turned educator, Andrea is a two-time past president of the Information Architecture Institute, a founding member of Architecta, the Italian Society for Information Architecture, a co-founder of the World IA Day international conference, the editor-in-chief of the [Journal of Information Architecture](https://journalofia.org/), and the author of Pervasive Information Architecture (2011), Reframing Information Architecture (2014), and Advances in Information Architecture (2021). Read more about Andrea on his [personal website](https://andrearesmini.com/).

### A Glimpse into the Keynote <a href="#be3e" id="be3e"></a>

Resmini’s keynote will offer attendees a unique exploration of IA through the decades, highlighting pivotal moments that shaped the discipline. He will examine the challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of the web, the advent of mobile technology, and the current wave of artificial intelligence. His talk will emphasize the importance of preserving and building upon the foundational principles of IA while adapting to new technological advancements and evolving user needs.

Resmini’s pre-recorded keynote address will be translated and broadcasted across the globe, offering valuable insights to IA professionals, students, and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds and regions. Local groups are encouraged to host watch parties and discussions, fostering engagement and knowledge-sharing within their communities.

### World IA Day: A Global Celebration of Information Architecture <a href="#id-58e0" id="id-58e0"></a>

World IA Day is an annual event held in early March, where local communities around the world organize events to celebrate and raise awareness of the crucial role of IA in our respective disciplines. Since 2021, the World IA Association has introduced a global keynote speaker to provide a shared platform for discussion and inspiration within the IA community.

**Join us on March 8, 2025, to celebrate World Information Architecture Day and learn from a leading voice in the field.** Registration for local events is not yet available. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on LinkedIn for more information.

**Learn More:**

* World IA Day:[ https://worldiaday.org/](https://worldiaday.org/)
* Call for locations: [Host a local WIAD25 event](https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad25-locations)

**Contact:**

* WIAD25 Global Executive Production team, <producer@worldiaday.org>: Nada Ashour, Jenny Ear, Andrew Jung
* WIAA Co-presidents, <president@worldiaday.org>: Grace Lau, Xander Roozen, Ghada Kandil

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Join us for World Information Architecture Day 2025

Let’s explore the challenges of change in our evolving world together.

By: Soyeon Lee

***

**13 October 2024** — If you are eager to learn, you have likely explored various methods: reading, taking online courses, and on-the-job training, among others. Engaging with the local community and attending gatherings can also be excellent ways to grow and learn.

You can observe the industry landscape and gain valuable firsthand experiences from speakers and attendees. These interactions can lead to potential career and collaboration opportunities.

Most importantly, sharing and discussing your thoughts and ideas with like-minded individuals is an exciting endeavour. World IA Day aims to create cherished memories for you by fostering local design communities.

### What is World IA Day? <a href="#f9a5" id="f9a5"></a>

World IA Day is a one-day celebration of Information Architecture, held globally on the same day.

Established in 2012, this event has fostered discussions within the community on evolving topics such as ‘Architecting Happiness,’ ‘IA for Good,’ and ‘Design for Difference,’ among others.

In 2024, 33 events took place in various locations around the world. Isn’t it exciting that we engage in discussions on the same topic, on the same day, across over 30 locations globally?

It will return on March 8, 2025, and this year’s theme is ‘***Challenges of Change: Adapting Information Architecture for an Evolving World.***’

### My journey with World IA Day Hong Kong <a href="#id-9fe2" id="id-9fe2"></a>

I organised World IA Day Hong Kong from 2017 to 2019, inspired by World IA Day Tokyo. After moving to Hong Kong in 2015, I aimed to build a design community, and World IA Day served as a great motivation for me.

In 2017, the event was a casual excursion to the Hong Kong Museum of History, where we discussed the architectural structure and wayfinding of the venue. It was enjoyable, but I recognised the need for a more structured approach.

In 2018, I adopted a more ambitious plan and invited multiple speakers from Japan, Singapore, and, of course, Hong Kong. Manabu Ueno’s talk on ‘Modeless Design’ was particularly well-received by the audience, and afterward, we enjoyed some delicious dim sum together.

<div><figure><img src="/files/po6TkBNLwZU2gVqqDmq3" alt=""><figcaption><p>Modal, from Manabu Ueno’s talk, ‘Modeless design’</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:1002/format:webp/1*DPupashfJdsXw1gFFMVB8w.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Modeless, also from Manabu Ueno’s talk</p></figcaption></figure></div>

In 2019, the event became even more exciting. I invited [Tomomi Sasaki](https://medium.com/u/8a5db0daa6d1?source=post_page---user_mention--28004ffc71cc---------------------------------------) from AQ Japan, who expertly organised a sprint workshop to brainstorm the future of Hong Kong together. I could see smiles on everyone’s faces as they enjoyed the workshop. [Marc Harrod](https://medium.com/u/a87176214556?source=post_page---user_mention--28004ffc71cc---------------------------------------), my former colleague, presented on inclusive design, and his talk was incredibly informative.

<div align="left" data-full-width="false"><figure><img src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:4800/format:webp/1*plIlIMhBHDOzDeTjcjpJDQ.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Marc Harrod presenting</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:4800/format:webp/1*RhFH_mpos1qZWSa99DTBeQ.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:4800/format:webp/1*48r7sKfAJAYUEuSDyyeIFA.jpeg" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

### Embracing challenges and taking a step forward <a href="#id-454e" id="id-454e"></a>

After a series of successful events, I encountered two challenges.

One, as everyone knows, was the pandemic situation. The other was that I felt a bit burnt out from organising large-scale events all by myself. Ultimately, I decided to put the events on pause.

However, this year, [Grace G Lau](https://medium.com/u/d24b10fee172?source=post_page---user_mention--28004ffc71cc---------------------------------------), the co-president of the World IA Association, invited me to join as part of the board. I realised that I don’t have to do everything alone — there is a supportive community after all.

So, World IA Day Hong Kong will return next year. While it may be a small gathering, I plan to facilitate meaningful conversations within the local community and possibly collaborate with other locations.

### Connect with our community <a href="#f9aa" id="f9aa"></a>

You can take action now to become part of the community:

### Are you in Hong Kong and interested in joining the event? <a href="#d0e7" id="d0e7"></a>

Please connect with me on LinkedIn, where I will keep you updated: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/soyeonlee-theuxer/>.

### Are you interested in attending the event in your area? <a href="#id-5048" id="id-5048"></a>

Discover your nearest location and join us there! More locations will be announced soon: <https://www.worldiaday.org/events>

### Are you interested in organising World IA Day? <a href="#ce79" id="ce79"></a>

It doesn’t have to be a large-scale event. Meeting up at a coffee shop for a chat can be a great start in your location. You can apply here: <https://www.worldiaday.org/call-for-locations>.

### Are you an organiser in the APAC region? <a href="#id-3597" id="id-3597"></a>

I would love to connect with you and discuss how we can collaborate to make the event more meaningful. Feel free to drop me a comment or contact me via LinkedIn.

### Do you want to know more about the association? <a href="#b824" id="b824"></a>

You can explore the following resources:

* Official website: <https://www.worldiaday.org/>
* Linkedin: <https://www.linkedin.com/company/worldiaday/>
* Medium publication: <https://medium.com/worldiaday>

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Theme of World IA Day 2025-Challenging Changes

In a world where change is the only constant, Information Architecture (IA) plays a crucial role in helping us navigate and make sense of the rapid transformations happening around us.

By [**Grace Lau**](/people/person/grace-lau), Co-president, WIAA

Contributions by Xander Roozen, Andrea Rosenbusch, Ghada Kandill, Nada Ashour\
Reviewed by Andrew Jung, Jenny Ear

***

**25 September 2024** — Information Architecture is the backbone of how we organize, structure, and label information in a way that makes it accessible and usable. As technology evolves, information architecture (IA) enhances user experience by intuitively organizing information, allowing users to quickly and efficiently find what they need. Structured content improves information retrieval and supports adapting to new technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Information architecture also maintains a human-centered design approach, ensuring that digital experiences are created with empathy and user needs at the forefront.

Read more about [Challenging Changes — Adapting Information in an Evolving World](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2025) on our website.

### Host an Event <a href="#id-7fcf" id="id-7fcf"></a>

We invite organizers from around the world to host local events in their cities or countries. By organizing a local event, you can:

* Raise Awareness: Bring attention to the importance of IA in your community.
* Foster Collaboration: Create opportunities for professionals, students, and enthusiasts to connect and share ideas.
* Promote Learning: Provide a platform for learning and discussing the latest trends and challenges in IA.

[Apply to host an event](https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad25-locations)

### Speak at World IA Day 2025 <a href="#e178" id="e178"></a>

We also invite speakers to present and share their knowledge of IA and how it helps with the challenges of change. As a speaker, you can:

* Share Expertise: Offer insights and experiences that can help others navigate the evolving landscape of IA.
* Inspire Innovation: Encourage sensemaking, innovative thinking and problem-solving within the IA community.
* Engage with Peers: Connect with other experts and enthusiasts to foster a vibrant and supportive IA community.

[Apply to speak at an event](https://www.worldiaday.org/call-for-speakers)

### Join World IA Day 2025 <a href="#id-0eff" id="id-0eff"></a>

World IA Day 2025 is an opportunity for IA professionals, enthusiasts, and newcomers to come together, learn, and share insights in the field of IA. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting your journey in information architecture, these local events promise to offer valuable knowledge and inspiration.

Mark your calendars for March 8, 2025, and be part of a global community dedicated to advancing the field of Information Architecture. Together, we can navigate the challenges of change and create a more accessible and user-friendly digital world.

Check [local event](https://www.worldiaday.org/events) near you.

### Who’s behind this blog post? <a href="#id-6ce7" id="id-6ce7"></a>

* Grace Lau, Co-President of World IA Association, past Global Executive Producer, local advisor and volunteer for World IA Day Los Angeles since 2016
* Xander Roozen, Co-President of World IA Association, local organizer of World IA Day Ghent 2019–2023
* Andrea Rosenbusch, former Co-President, Regional Director of World IA Day Europe, WIAD Zurich since 2015
* Ghada Kandil, Co-President Elect, Organiser World IA Day Egypt
* Nada Ashour, current Global Executive Producer for WIAD25, past WIAA volunteer
* Andrew Jung, Director of Community and Events; past Global Executive Producer; past local organizer and advisor for World IA Day Alberta, Edmonton, Vancouver
* Jenny Ear, Assistant Global Executive Producer for WIAD24 and WIAD25
* And maybe you? If you’re interested in helping out to support World IA Day, [let us know](https://www.worldiaday.org/get-involved/volunteer-opportunities)!

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Xander Roozen joins WIAA as Co-President

Xander Roozen appointed as Co-President of the World Information Architecture Association (WIAA). Learn about his vision for fostering global IA community and upcoming World IA Day 2025."

**1 September 2024** — The World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) is excited to announce the appointment of Xander Roozen as the new Co-President. Xander started his term officially on July 20, 2024.

We asked him to write a short introduction.

***

In May 2024, I decided to apply for the position of [co-president of WIAA](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/zku3wqd9/release/1?readingCollection=56332df2), the organization behind World IA Day. Here’s why.

### Fostering a Local and Global Community <a href="#id-77c8" id="id-77c8"></a>

My involvement with WIAA/D wasn’t new. Over the years, I participated in various World IA Day events in different capacities, from visitor and presenter to organiser and board member. What always stood out to me at these WIAD gatherings was the passion and energy of both the audience and the speakers.

The diverse mix of attendees, ranging from seasoned taxonomists to newcomers exploring the field, created a welcoming atmosphere at World IA Day events. The organization’s focus on accessibility, with no need for fancy venues or expensive tickets, truly makes it an event for a global yet local community.

Attending these events, I’ve had the privilege of hearing a range of voices sharing compelling stories about structuring information. These narratives underscore the ongoing importance and complexity of information architecture, a field that is constantly evolving and challenging.

While the unique characteristics of WIAD events are commendable, [as noted by Andrea Rosenbusch](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/ka7osrkt/release/1), there can be challenges in maintaining continuity within a dynamic community.

### Looking Ahead to Events in 2024 and Beyond <a href="#id-1d24" id="id-1d24"></a>

In the post-pandemic world, organizing in-person conferences has become increasingly challenging for events and summits worldwide. Economic uncertainties, inflation, and shifting design landscapes, including information architecture, present additional hurdles for event organizers.

Information architecture, with its rich history and extensive scope, plays a crucial role in organizing the world around us. From classic classification systems to modern design methodologies, the field continues to evolve in response to emerging societal and technological challenges.

WIAA’s [State of IA research](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/p3ipdevl/release/1) highlights the ongoing need for awareness and education within and beyond the information architecture field. By leveraging the core principles of IA, we can develop innovative approaches to navigate the ever-changing landscape of our field.

As we prepare for the upcoming World IA Day on March 5th, 2025, themed around exploring the challenges of change, it’s clear that adaptation and growth are essential in the field of information architecture.

### Every Day is World IA Day <a href="#id-5efc" id="id-5efc"></a>

I am sincerely thankful to Grace Lau and Andrea Rosenbusch for entrusting me with this opportunity.

On behalf of WIAA, I am committed to nurturing and expanding the IA community of practice. With initiatives like the World IA Day starter kit supporting initiators in the preparation, the World IA Cafe, educational programs, and ongoing research, we aim to transform World IA Day into a year-round program.

Whether you join us in person in March, attend a World IA Cafe session, or engage in the State of IA research, I look forward to connecting with you and exchanging ideas and insights about information architecture.

If you’re interested in contributing to WIAD2025, the [call for locations is now open](https://www.worldiaday.org/call-for-locations).

### References <a href="#id-959d" id="id-959d"></a>

* [Call For Locations World IA Day 2025](https://www.worldiaday.org/call-for-locations)
* [State of IA 2023](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/p3ipdevl/release/1)
* [Download the State of IA 2023 report](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kojHZMOHxzLV3_WcI_643ByK6yBu4iM9/view?pli=1)
* [World Information Architecture Association Seeking Co-President](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/zku3wqd9/release/1)
* [Thank you Andrea for four-years co-presidency! Now, what’s next?](https://wiaa.pubpub.org/pub/ka7osrkt/release/1)
* Feel free to connect — [Xander Roozen on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/xanderroozen/)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2023 State of Information Architecture

A summary of the 2023 State of IA survey highlighting global practitioner trends, skill development, community impact, and the ongoing challenge of raising awareness for IA’s value in UX design.

**17 April 2024** — It’s  been two years since the last [State of IA Survey](https://medium.com/worldiaday/when-wiad-does-research-941497c1ec25) was conducted, back in 2021. It was by this time when the world had shut down and all in person activities had converted into online meeting sessions. This year, many, if not, most of those activities went back to in-person, including IA community events.

For the last couple of years, the World Information Architecture Association has researched the prevalence of information architecture as part of World IA Association’s (WIAA) initiative to build and connect a global community of IA advocates and practitioners.

Thanks to Optimal Workshop, one of our longest-standing supporters, this year we continued with our goal and ran a survey across IA community events, worldwide.

### **BACKGROUND** <a href="#background" id="background"></a>

We ran a longitudinal survey to identify trends in the attitudes and practices used in information architecture work by engaged practitioners. The survey ran from March to July 2023 and was distributed online at the WIAD Conference, IA Conference, UX New Zealand, and via social media (Linkedin and Slack groups).

**Goals**

* Grow the practice of IA through direct intervention (education, advocacy, thought leadership and community engagement)

**Objectives**

* Identify who’s conducting IA or is interested in conducting IA
* How are practitioners developing their IA skills?
* What’s happening in IA practice?
* What’s the perceived value of IA?
* What can communities do?

### **RESULTS** <a href="#results" id="results"></a>

### **So who’s conducting IA or is interested in conducting IA?** <a href="#so-whos-conducting-ia-or-is-interested-in-conducting-ia" id="so-whos-conducting-ia-or-is-interested-in-conducting-ia"></a>

The study surveyed IA practitioners, UX researchers, UX designers, learners, and other engaged practitioners around the world. The survey was translated into several languages to increase the external validity, including:

* English
* Arabic
* Chinese (Simplified)
* Chinese (Traditional)
* Persian
* Italian
* Spanish (Latin America)

Out of the 913 survey respondents, most of them have a Bachelor’s or higher education. One-third of the respondents are located in the United States. 72% of the respondents are full-time employed. 10% are students.

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6IjBtM2F6bjRrL2ltYWdlNC03MTcxMzQxODU4NjExOC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjgwMCwiZml0IjoiaW5zaWRlIiwid2l0aG91dEVubGFyZ2VtZW50Ijp0cnVlfX19" alt=""><figcaption><p>Age distribution of survey respondents</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6ImFoZWN3eG1mL2ltYWdlNS01MTcxMzQxODYzNzQ4OC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjgwMCwiZml0IjoiaW5zaWRlIiwid2l0aG91dEVubGFyZ2VtZW50Ijp0cnVlfX19" alt=""><figcaption><p>Distribution of survey respondents by highest education</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6InFtcDdhaGFjL2ltYWdlMy0yMTcxMzQxODY4NzQ0OC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjgwMCwiZml0IjoiaW5zaWRlIiwid2l0aG91dEVubGFyZ2VtZW50Ijp0cnVlfX19" alt=""><figcaption><p>Distribution of survey respondents by work status</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6InV3aGMyM3pqL2ltYWdlMS00MTcxMzQxODczMzExMy5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjgwMCwiZml0IjoiaW5zaWRlIiwid2l0aG91dEVubGFyZ2VtZW50Ijp0cnVlfX19" alt=""><figcaption><p>Survey geographic distribution</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6InExcWlzdnVrL2ltYWdlMi03MTcxMzQxODc2NDc5Ny5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjgwMCwiZml0IjoiaW5zaWRlIiwid2l0aG91dEVubGFyZ2VtZW50Ijp0cnVlfX19" alt=""><figcaption><p>Respondents’ job title</p></figcaption></figure>

### **What’s the value of IA?** <a href="#whats-the-value-of-ia" id="whats-the-value-of-ia"></a>

Most people think that their current or last organization is aware of IA and consider it important. They believe that companies discontinue IA practices due to a lack of understanding of IA as a discipline, a lack of awareness of problems within their IA, and a misalignment of stakeholders.

### **How do practitioners develop their IA skills?** <a href="#how-do-practitioners-develop-their-ia-skills" id="how-do-practitioners-develop-their-ia-skills"></a>

Around 30% of respondents have less than three years of IA experience and 35% of the respondents have more than 10 years of IA experience. In terms of methodology, people often use interviews, competitor analysis, and card sorting to conduct research for information architecture. Focus groups and Diary studies are rarely used.

Also, the most frequently produced deliverables are navigation structures, site/app structures, and wireframes. Metadata and modeling are less frequently delivered.

Most of the respondents consider IA in their career plans and are planning to develop the skills around it by using online resources and training to build the strategy, testing, system design, and other IA skills.

### **What can communities do?** <a href="#what-can-communities-do" id="what-can-communities-do"></a>

A quarter of the respondents are currently in one or more IA-related communities, with **IxDA**, **UXPA**, **WIAD/WIAA** and **IAC** being mentioned the most. They consider communities important for developing the practice.

The majority of our respondents expressed concerns about the lack of awareness and understanding of the Information Architecture (IA) practice, which results in the IA practice being undervalued. They agree that communities can help alleviate this by sharing knowledge to educate and empower current and new IA practitioners, as well as socializing information architecture to those outside the field.

“Communities should facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practices related to information architecture. This could take the form of online forums, webinars, conferences, or other events where information architects can learn from each other and share their experiences.”

### **Overall, how do people feel about the state of information architecture as a practice?** <a href="#overall-how-do-people-feel-about-the-state-of-information-architecture-as-a-practice" id="overall-how-do-people-feel-about-the-state-of-information-architecture-as-a-practice"></a>

In general, respondents think IA is growing and heading to a better state. However, some of them are concerned that the lack of awareness and understanding of IA and new technology might be a drawback.

The majority of respondents think that IA is in a better state than it was 5 yrs ago and that it will continue to do so 5 years from now.

“There is more awareness of the importance of information architecture, there are more resources available, and there are more tools available. I think that the practice of information architecture also benefits from the increasing importance of user experience (UX) design.”

“I believe that this is something people recognize as being an important part of the user experience and it isn’t going anywhere. We all know how awful it is to experience poor information architecture, not just UX designers or IAs, but all users, and we want to continue to improve.”

However, some of the respondents don’t think the state of IA is in a better state than 5 years ago and that it will not be so in 5 years from now.

“A few years ago, IA was still one of the crucial parts of the design. Nowadays, most of the stakeholders don’t care about crafting information architecture. They don’t have time for tree-testing and card sorting, not to mention working on taxonomy or object modeling. Fast results and outcomes are the only ones that matter now.”

“I don’t see any trends helping IA practice transit into a better state anytime soon. UX design turned into ugly UX/UI design, always starting from a mockup, becoming a golden standard for any design work. Quantitative UX research is like alchemy for big organizations. And Information Architecture became a buzzword of old designers who read the polar bear book in ancient times. But nobody knows what IA means in 2023, with tiny exceptions spread across mature enough companies or UX agencies.”

### **INSIGHTS** <a href="#insights" id="insights"></a>

1. A variety of tools and methods have been developed. Technological advancements have pushed Information Architecture forward, opening up more opportunities.
2. Senior practitioners or those at higher levels in the field tend to dedicate more time to Information Architecture.
3. There is a need for ongoing IA awareness and education amongst those within and outside the field. However, is there consensus or divergence among practitioners on whether it’s their responsibility to champion IA’s value? For those advocating, what challenges arise in conveying the significance of IA? How can communities contribute to this journey for practitioners advocating for IA in the design process?
4. While the majority expresses optimism about the future of IA, there’s a segment of respondents who hold a contrasting view. This divergence in opinions indicates the presence of varied perspectives within the IA community, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions and efforts to address concerns and challenges within the field.

What about you? Did you participate in our research? What do you think about the results?

[Download the report](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kojHZMOHxzLV3_WcI_643ByK6yBu4iM9/view?usp=sharing)

Let us know by commenting below or writing to us at <research@worldiaday.org>

Chun-Ling “Vanya” Hsu and Miguel Castillo


# World Information Architecture Association Seeking Co-President

Get involved in the global IA community as WIAA Co-President. Volunteer opportunity for passionate professionals. Shape the future of information architecture.

**27 February 2024** — The World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) is seeking a passionate and visionary co-president to join our leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to make a significant impact on the global information architecture (IA) community.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for evolving the association, a deep interest in the theory and practice of information architecture, and a good understanding of its niche in the design world. The co-president position is a volunteer role with a two-year commitment, with the option to continue for another 2-year term.

### **Key Responsibilities** <a href="#key-responsibilities" id="key-responsibilities"></a>

As a co-president of WIAA, you will be responsible for:

**WIAA Strategy**

* Set the strategic direction of the association
* Develop governance and sustainability plans for the association.
* Keep mission current and vital — engage the community to determine needs and goals.
* Carry out WIAA activities as needed to support the mission.
* Ensure community and sponsor expectations are met.
* Represent the association at conferences, workshops, and other events
* Foster relationships with other professional organizations and communities

**WIAA Board of Directors Leadership**

* Schedule and run Board of Directors Meetings
* Schedule and run special project team meetings as needed
* Appoint unelected Board members as needed.
* Monitor progress with projects/actions; follow up with responsible contributors, including: Board of Directors Officers, Volunteers, Advisory Board Members

### **Qualifications** <a href="#qualifications" id="qualifications"></a>

We are seeking someone with:

* A deep understanding of information architecture and its role in the design world
* Some experience organizing, speaking, or volunteering at community events
* A commitment to open collaboration and community-building
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
* Working knowledge of English language, written and speaking required
* Leadership and team management skills

Expected time and dedication: on average 8 hours a month or 2–3 hours a week

This is an officer-level position and is responsible for understanding the organizational bylaws and ensuring legal protection and compliance of the organization.

### **To Apply** <a href="#to-apply" id="to-apply"></a>

If you are excited by the opportunity to shape the future of the information architecture community, we encourage you to apply for this role.

The application will ask the following questions:

* Why would you be a good candidate for this position?
* What hopes and aspirations do you have for the global information architecture community?

Apply before May 15, 2024: <https://tally.so/r/w2NxDb>

**UPDATE:** Deadline to apply is extended from April 15 to May 15

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Andrea Rosenbusch <andrea.rosenbusch@worldiaday.org> or Grace Lau <grace.lau@worldiaday.org>&#x20;

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Thank you Andrea for four-years co-presidency! Now, what’s next?

Celebrating four years of WIAA co-presidency: Andrea Rosenbusch reflects on growing the global IA community, key decisions, and the future of World IA Association.

**14 February 2024** — Andrea Rosenbusch has decided to step down from her role as co-president of World IA Association (WIAA). In this interview, Andrea reflects on her time as co-head of WIAA and her future plans with the association. Also read about what her colleagues say.

### **Hello, Andrea! Will you tell us about your decision ?** <a href="#hello-andrea-will-you-tell-us-about-your-decision" id="hello-andrea-will-you-tell-us-about-your-decision"></a>

The last four years were very intense. When I started, we were afraid the COVID pandemic would lead to the demise of local events, but it also gave us the opportunity to grow the community more internationally. To work together with the diverse global board was a wonderful experience. I learnt a lot, particularly about community building, volunteer organizations, and IA. And I made some dear friends. Now it’s time for me to move on and to have more time for other projects and my family. And I’m looking forward to fresh inputs and new perspectives in the global board. I’ll still be around to support the board, but more in the background.

### **How did you start with World IA Day?** <a href="#how-did-you-start-with-world-ia-day" id="how-did-you-start-with-world-ia-day"></a>

I started in 2015 with organizing World IA Day (WIAD) Zurich. We are celebrating our 10th anniversary this year, and it is pretty awesome that the event still resonates with the community. I don’t think I know of other communities as dedicated and friendly as this one. When Fabienne Gafner and I started planning our first event, we didn’t know much about IA as a discipline. We were unabashed enough to ask Peter Morville and Andrea Resmini to speak. Never would we have dreamt that both would accept! And with this lineup, we reached our audience and set the expectations for the following years.

### **In your opinion, what are the most important decisions you made during your co-presidency?** <a href="#in-your-opinion-what-are-the-most-important-decisions-you-made-during-your-co-presidency" id="in-your-opinion-what-are-the-most-important-decisions-you-made-during-your-co-presidency"></a>

I don’t think I made any crucial decisions, but that wasn’t my goal, either. My aim was to make the organization sustainable, to have a clear focus, and to foster the quality of the events. I think we did accomplish some of this.

In terms of quality, I think we did well with the global themes on curiosity, connections, orientation & wayfinding and — in 2024 — context. Also by providing the global keynotes with subtitles in around 10 languages.

Concerning focus, I think I learnt to be more patient and more open to other people’s desires. The decision to establish WIAA as an organization beyond the WIAD events wasn’t really on my agenda. But I believe it helps others to develop products and services their communities demand, and therefore I supported the change.

In respect to sustainability, I think we’re doing OK. We’ve always managed to continue to develop the organization, with activities like joining 24 hours of UX, founding WIAA or the website project we’re kicking off right now. Last, but not least, we have a large number of local organizers and board members who have been around for a long time and are still driving this organization. I don’t know what we would do without Grace Lau, who is the heart and soul of everything.

### **What are the challenges that face WIAA and your advice to overcome them?** <a href="#what-are-the-challenges-that-face-wiaa-and-your-advice-to-overcome-them" id="what-are-the-challenges-that-face-wiaa-and-your-advice-to-overcome-them"></a>

Communities are always changing. The advantage is their energy and flexibility, and their disadvantage is the lack of continuity.

<figure><img src="https://assets.pubpub.org/trgt0a7j/image1-51713414255309.gif" alt=""><figcaption><p>A blue shape that is continuously changing</p></figcaption></figure>

We have both tendencies in our organization. Some strive to create a more formal organization, others prefer to continue as a grass root movement. Even if it’s fine to have this mix, the next term of presidency should clarify which is the dominant path.

### **How do you plan to stay involved with WIAA?** <a href="#how-do-you-plan-to-stay-involved-with-wiaa" id="how-do-you-plan-to-stay-involved-with-wiaa"></a>

I will mainly try to grow WIAA by liaising with people interested in supporting WIAA in general and in organizing World IA Days in and around Europe.

### **What does the WIAA global board say?** <a href="#what-does-the-wiaa-global-board-say" id="what-does-the-wiaa-global-board-say"></a>

*Interviewing number of WIAA global board members, I quote here couple of them:*

Grace Lau, WIAA co-president, “Andrea has been a great partner and mentor. I’ve learned so much since working with her about leadership and communication. Her consideration, thoughtfulness, and intention when it comes to planning the global keynotes.”

Luis Alveart Guerraro, WIAA regional director Latin America, “Andrea has been doing a great job with both WIAD and WIAA. She is patient and focused. Her participation is relevant in keeping the events alive and to connect people around the world to manage all the initiatives.”

**“Thank you, Andrea, for your contribution to WIAA!”**&#x6F;n behalf of all global board members.

This article was originally published on Medium: <https://medium.com/worldiaday/thank-you-andrea-for-four-years-co-presidency-now-whats-next-7984991f4c4d>

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Project Proposal for a New World Information Architecture Website

Learn about WIAA's proposal to redesign its website with a focus on content strategy, improved information architecture, and modern CMS implementation to better serve its global community.

**13 February 2024** — The World Information Architecture Association ([WIAA](https://worldiaday.org/about)) hosts World IA Day and supports global initiatives to spread the information architecture practice. WIAA brings together local communities and runs the largest global conference about information architecture.

WIAA needs to redesign its website. Continue reading to learn more about the reasons for the redesign and the proposed procedure. The following proposal is based on a structure developed at Amazon called a “6-pager”. We’ll share why and how we are using this Amazon “6-pager” in a later post.

### **1. Summary** <a href="#summary" id="summary"></a>

**We want to redesign the website of the World Information Architecture Association (WIAA) to fulfill the goals of our organization and those of our stakeholders. The quality of the IA and the content of WIAA’s website is crucial to demonstrate our authority in these fields and give the organization credibility. We also want to replace the current CMS with one which supports these goals and which can be handled by a broader range of people. Because of limited resources, we are planning a staggered approach, starting with the launch of an MVP (minimum viable product).**

The [World IA Day website](https://www.worldiaday.org/) does not fulfill the goals of the WIAA organization in different respects:

* It was built for the World IA Day annual event and does not reflect the organization’s recent development to the professional association WIAA is striving to become.
* Neither the users’ needs nor the organizations’ goals are reflected.
* The implementation of the content management system (CMS) we are using is hard to maintain with the limited resources and skills we have. Also, it is no longer being supported.
* The current website does not support the organization’s needs in respect to information architecture and content management.

### **2. Goals** <a href="#goals" id="goals"></a>

**This project is primarily a content project to sharpen our messages according to the needs of the organization (now World IA&#x20;*****Association*****&#x20;and no longer only World IA&#x20;*****Day*****) and its stakeholders. Also, we want to implement a CMS which is easy to manage and to update. It should be possible to easily add new areas when the organization continues to develop.**

In a nutshell, our new website shall show the authority, credibility, and success of the *organization* to increase findability of and support for the organization. It shall also make the organization’s *products and services* findable and understandable to all stakeholders and call these stakeholders to action.

We created a prioritized list of stakeholders of the organization, their needs, and the organization’s goals in respect to each group of stakeholders (**who**). Based on this list, we defined our communication goals, i.e. the actions we want the users to take and/or the desired outcomes for the organization (**what**). We have also identified the places required to reach these goals (**where**). In the concept phases of the project, the project team shall develop the details on **how** to achieve these goals. It shall focus on the content we need in the future. It is not a project to only rearrange the current content. Due to limited resources, we want to start by creating a MVP (minimum viable product. See chapter 5. Strategic Priorities for more on the MVP.

### **3. Principles** <a href="#principles" id="principles"></a>

**The principles are the basis for our content guidelines. Some also play a role in technical implementation.**

They shall be implemented in the content and/or the way the content is communicated (text and other formats, visual design etc.)

* **Welcoming.** World IA Association is friendly, inclusive, supportive, and approachable. We want to meet people where they are and make all kinds of visitors (stakeholders) feel welcome, understood, and valuable as members of the community.
* **Easy to understand.** One of the driving outcomes of good information architecture is to make complex things easy to understand. This relies on creating logical structure, clear relationships, and using the appropriate formats (from copy in plain language to audiovisual means).
* **Findable**. The content shall be optimized for search engines (SEO).
* **Accessible**. We want to make our information accessible to everyone. The site must be compliant with W3C web accessibility standards.
* **Multilingual**. The site shall support multiple languages. This is not a requirement for the MVP, but it is a requirement for the selection of an adequate CMS.

### **4. Analysis of the Situation** <a href="#analysis-of-the-situation" id="analysis-of-the-situation"></a>

**Not having a focused website has most likely turned away interested community members, sponsors, and event attendees**. **The website does not fulfill our communication needs, and the CMS is difficult to handle and not up-to-date.**

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6ImlodzZ5aXZ1L2ltYWdlLTAxNzEzNDEyNzA5MDYxLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6ODAwLCJmaXQiOiJpbnNpZGUiLCJ3aXRob3V0RW5sYXJnZW1lbnQiOnRydWV9fX0=" alt=""><figcaption><p>Screenshot from the existing website of the Events page with an embedded Google Map of the WIAD24 locations</p></figcaption></figure>

The [World IA Day website](https://www.worldiaday.org/) was built in 2018 using Drupal CMS with the establishment of World IA Day as a non-profit organization independent from the Information Architecture Institute (IAI). The website and its information architecture has been focusing on the one-day annual event celebrating information architecture around the world. The project was conducted in collaboration with a sponsor. The project was originally scoped just for the collection of the videos of the recorded talks, but somehow included the complete redesign of the website. The budget was spent on a developer team, meaning it didn’t go very far. While there was complete scope creep, the content collection wasn’t completely built out.

In 2020 an update for Drupal 9 was done, and with the World IA Day organization attempting to broaden its activities, new pages were introduced to spread awareness of the organization and to promote information architecture as a discipline. Currently, we are dependent on an outdated content management system that hasn’t been updated since its initial launch in 2018.

There have been multiple attempts since trying to get the redesign of the website going, including internship attempts and practitioner attempts. None of them have succeeded.

We have gathered all information available from these previous attempts in an internal analysis document to make all available information accessible and to avoid redundant work.

### **5.Strategic Priorities** <a href="#id-5strategic-priorities" id="id-5strategic-priorities"></a>

**We want to create an MVP (minimum viable product) of the website which supports the goals of our primary current stakeholders and the core messages of our organization in respect to these.**

This project is **primarily a content project** to sharpen our messages according to the needs of the organization and its stakeholders. It must focus on the content we need in the future. While it is not a project to only rearrange the current content, it may reuse the current content (particularly in the first stages of the MVP), and it shall also propose which existing content to remove. The IA and the navigation (including its display) must support the content goals.

We want to start with an MVP to show that the organization is active in pursuing the goal of a new website. The advantage of creating an MVP for the primary current stakeholders is that it can be launched sooner than a full-fledged website. It shall be launched in a timely way and expanded in further iterations.

### **What do we mean by MVP?** <a href="#what-do-we-mean-by-mvp" id="what-do-we-mean-by-mvp"></a>

We will decide on the exact definition of our MVP after we have agreed on the concept at the according milestone. The MVP shall convey the essence of the concept. Further parts shall be added in a staggered way. The IA and the CMS must be robust enough to support the planned expansion.

What we know now is that we will

* Prioritize content production, i.e. not all content will be final at launch of the MVP (based on the prioritization of stakeholders we have already made and the feasibility of production)
* Prioritize technical implementation, i.e. not all planned elements and functionalities will be available at launch
* Prioritize interfaces with other systems (e.g. our internal platform Coda, the content collection (past talks), form builders etc.)

The content in respect to the other stakeholders (primary future as well as secondary stakeholders) as well as entirely new content shall be added in a staggered form.

### **Course of action** <a href="#course-of-action" id="course-of-action"></a>

To implement the MVP, there are 3 core tasks

* a. Project management: Project organization, resources (human, financial, time)
* b. Development of concept and visual design
* c. Implementation (technical, content) and filling in of content (“migration”).

### **a. Project management** <a href="#a-project-management" id="a-project-management"></a>

* **Project organization**
* **Project leader**: preferably with experience in this field. Responsibilities: Lead team (allocate tasks, mentor sub-teams, coordinate sub-teams, organize meetings on a regular basis for exchange with teams); plan time, budget and decision points (milestones); prepare material for sounding board and milestone meetings
* **Team**: Responsible for carrying out small tasks with clear goals in sub-teams of 2
* **Sounding board**: Responsible for allocation of budget, definition of success criteria and approval of milestones
* **Resources**: In a first step, we need to estimate the resources necessary for the MVP once we have a clearer idea of it. The second step is to plan for these resources (human, financial, time).

### **b. Development of concept** <a href="#b-development-of-concept" id="b-development-of-concept"></a>

* **Analysis**: Get to know current website, available background, user needs and benchmarks (websites of similar organizations) based on the information already available. Do NOT start from scratch, just summarize or fill in gaps where necessary.

**i. Concept phase 1 (basic concept)**

* **Develop** IA, content elements, functionalities and exemplary content of main areas of the website (wireframes, prototype). The IA must support future growth and findability, be based on reusable content to avoid redundancy. avoid redundancy with with other systems in our ecosystem, e.g. of locations.
* **Carry out** **usability tests** with representatives of major stakeholders (particularly organizers, sponsors/partners) and adapt concept accordingly.

**ii. Development of MVP and plan for the future**

* Plan stages: Content, quality (e.g. existing vs. new) and timelines
* Consider different possibilities
* Propose success measures

**iii. Approval of concept (milestone), specific MVP and plan for the future, and success measures**

This is the premise for all detailed work, both concerning concept, CMS selection and planning

**iv. Concept phase 2 (detailed concept)**

All products shall discriminate between what is necessary for the MVP and what can be postponed

* Produce **visual design** (responsive design)
* **Document** for implementation: Content guidelines (goals,principles of UX writing, SEO, use of elements and formats etc.); transfer concept into technical implementation in a project management tool.

**v. CMS selection**\
In parallel to concept phase 2. Essential in respect to cost of implementation.

**vi. Content planning**

* Assess current content (see existing audit) and plan what new content needs to be produced (and in which formats), what current content to reuse (1:1 or rework) and what to remove/archive
* Prioritize content production for MVP, i.e. staggered planning
* Plan resources for implementation (iterations, human resources for production and QA).

**vii. Project marketing**

* Communication measures, project marketing (internal, external, i.e. for community, IA elders, (potential) sponsors and partners)
* Fundraising (sponsors, in kind contributions, crowdsourcing, …)

**viii. Plan for maintenance and further development** of the website (editorial plan, roles and responsibilities, monitoring of success, CMS maintenance etc.)

### **c. Implementation** <a href="#c-implementation" id="c-implementation"></a>

**i. Technical implementation**

* Backend (CMS)
* Frontend — if necessary
* Interfaces to other systems

**ii. Content production**

* Outline of each page/element
* QA of outline to make sure it achieves the desired outcomes (stakeholders, org, accordance with guidelines)
* Actual production (copy, images, videos etc.; possibly translations)

**iii. “Migration” of content into CMS and QA**

**iv. Go-Live**

**v. Operation of new website**

* Produce content (according to editorial plan including further steps of staggered planning into account)
* Maintain CMS (e.g. maintenance contract)
* Monitor success and take measures if necessary

This article was originally published on Medium: <https://medium.com/worldiaday/project-proposal-for-a-new-world-information-architecture-website-6d05dae083eb>

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2023

* [World Information Architecture Day 2024 on CONTEXT](/blog/2023/world-information-architecture-day-2024-on-context)


# World Information Architecture Day 2024 on CONTEXT

World IA Day (WIAD) takes place every year on one day in locations around the world. This year, we want to look at Information Architecture (IA) through the lens of Context.

**9 July 2023** — World IA Day (WIAD) takes place every year on one day in locations around the world. Every year has a dedicated subject or theme, like [Curiosity](https://www.worldiaday.org/themes/2021), [Connections](https://www.worldiaday.org/2022) or [Orientation and Wayfinding](https://www.worldiaday.org/themes/2023). This year, we want to look at Information Architecture (IA) through the lens of **Context**.

### **Why context?** <a href="#why-context" id="why-context"></a>

Context is all around us. It shapes the meaning in all types of communications. Without context, you can’t communicate effectively. Without context, you can’t understand meaning. Context is fundamental to the way we come to understand people, situations, and ideas. Context inspires feelings, thoughts and beliefs of groups and individuals. It is the background information that allows people to make informed decisions.

### **Why is context relevant to information architecture?** <a href="#why-is-context-relevant-to-information-architecture" id="why-is-context-relevant-to-information-architecture"></a>

As information architects and designers, we study the context, content, and users. We need to research the context of what we are architecting: Who is it for? What are they using it for? Why, when, where, and on which devices or channels? What are their expectations, experiences or values?

When we understand the context, we make strategic decisions: We draw lines (seams, borders, edges) between content and context: What do we focus on? What is «inside» and what is «outside»? When we work on detailing the objects in our focus, we’re still always keeping an eye out for the context. The context can change the meaning of the content. The context itself can change, thus having an impact on our information architecture.

Maybe we’re not even trying to architect the content, but rather the context, e.g. to give users a framework in which they can create their own content. Architecting the context, or at least making context explicit, is becoming increasingly relevant: For instance, when news is detached from its source, it is hard to distinguish reliable from fake news. Artificial intelligence builds rules based on implicit context, e.g., when assessing the CVs of job candidates.

### **Visit or organize an event on Context!** <a href="#visit-or-organize-an-event-on-context" id="visit-or-organize-an-event-on-context"></a>

Interested in joining us on **March 2, 2024**, to enrich the discussion about context? Keep out an eye for a [location near you](https://www.worldiaday.org/events). Or [apply to create your own event](https://forms.worldiaday.org/wiad24-locations).

Want to find out more before you apply? Contact one of our regional directors for [Asia and Pacific](http://contact-apac@worldiaday.org/), [Europe](http://contact-europe@worldiaday.org/), [Latin America](http://contact-latam@worldiaday.org/), [Middle East and Africa](http://contact-mea@worldiaday.org/), or [North America](http://contact-noram@worldiaday.org/).

This article was originally published on Medium: <https://medium.com/worldiaday/world-information-architecture-day-2024-on-context-627a417617e5>

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2022

* [Meet Rupa Misra](/blog/2022/meet-rupa-misra)


# Meet Rupa Misra

Meet Rupananda Misra, former IA Institute Board member and current Director, Education of World IA Day. Learn about his journey in healthcare UX design.

By Vivian Zheng

Reviewed by Grace Lau

***

**11 January 2022** — We’re very excited to introduce some of the people, organizations, and companies behind World IA Da y. Today, we’re introducing a former IA Institute Board member and now Director, Education of World IA Day. [**Rupananda Misra**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupananda-misra-4a3b1513/) has been a board member of the IA Institute from 2018 to 2019(when it ended).

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1600/0*_xTzjxScpUQtdfel" alt="Rupa Misra"><figcaption><p>Rupa Misra</p></figcaption></figure>

#### **Tell us about your journey to information architecture and/or World IA Day**

My passion has always been to provide innovative design solutions to complex healthcare challenges. The focus of my research is understanding how patients, healthcare providers, and the public interact with health information. A natural continuation of my doctoral research at Columbia University, critically evaluating government and non-government healthcare websites to improve the user experience, and making complex information understandable and aligned with the organization’s goals. My work focused on identifying each participants’ needs, requirements, and expectations. In my post-doc research work at Columbia University, I examined the use of participatory and user-centered interaction design methods in designing effective health care tools, generating and evaluating the viability of alternative designs.

In my current faculty position at Rutgers University, NJ, we train our students to be full stack designers. They learn to answer some of the challenging questions in designing a product or service. They learn to collect and analyze user behaviors through various ways such as field visits, ethnography studies, surveys, etc. to understand what would make a product or service effective, efficient and desirable. They present their research findings including analysis and recommendations as written reports and interactive prototype presentations.

#### **Why and in what ways are you involved with World IA Day?**

I joined World IA Day to meet like minded people who believe in the importance of structuring information and also helping in redefining Information Architecture as it pertains to 21st century. Currently, I am part of the Finance and Education Committees.

#### **What inspires you about information architecture?**

My passion is to help people understand the importance of user experience design — especially helping people understand the critical role of Information Architecture within the umbrella of user experience design. As we all know, lack of structure and proper organization can potentially lead to confusion among the users.

I would like to help WIAD to spread the message about the importance of IA in designing products, services, and spaces.

#### **Find Rupa online**

* LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupananda-misra-4a3b1513/>
* **Rutgers University** — <https://mbs.rutgers.edu/staff/members> |<https://mbs.rutgers.edu/program/user-experience-design-uxd>
* **Associate Editor** — Journal of Information Architecture h[ttp://journalofia.org/](http://journalofia.org/)
* **Co-Organizer** — Central NJ Design Meet up [— https://www.meetup.com/Central-NJ-Design-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Central-NJ-Design-Meetup/)
* **Leadership Committee** — Columbia University Philadelphia Alumni chapter — <https://philadelphia.alumni.columbia.edu/>

***

Tags: [Board Spotlight](/blog/topics/board-spotlight)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# 2021

* [Introducing… the new World Information Architecture Association](/blog/2021/introducing...-the-new-world-information-architecture-association)
* [Announcing the WIAD22 global keynote: Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes](/blog/2021/28-oct-wiad22-global-keynote)
* [Advocating a digital-first WIAD22](/blog/2021/25-sep-wiad22-theme-digital-first)
* [Take the State of IA 2021 Survey](/blog/2021/take-the-state-of-ia-2021-survey)
* [When WIAD does research](/blog/2021/19-may-when-wiad-does-research)


# Introducing… the new World Information Architecture Association

Learn why World IA Day evolved from an annual event into a year-round professional organization dedicated to information architecture advancement.

**7 December 2021** — World IA Day is growing up. We started as a grassroots organization, organizing events once a year, bringing people together to talk about the order and structure of things. Now it’s time to build the steps to move the discipline forward.

The board has a fuzzy vision for this future, based on early conversations in 2019–2020. The world has changed quite a bit and the need for information architecture is ever so clear, even if under different names, misinformation, information overload, cognitive dissonance, etc. The World Information Architecture Association is about building, empowering, learning, and engaging.

An event once a year is not enough. As a newly forming organization, we have big ambitions to build on the shoulders of the giants before us. We invite you to watch over us and contribute your thoughts and feedback.

<figure><img src="https://resize-v3.pubpub.org/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJhc3NldHMucHVicHViLm9yZyIsImtleSI6Im9rdGdpc3VtL2ltYWdlLTcxNzEzNDExMTA1NTYwLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6ODAwLCJmaXQiOiJpbnNpZGUiLCJ3aXRob3V0RW5sYXJnZW1lbnQiOnRydWV9fX0=" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### **Why the name change: Organization vs Event** <a href="#why-the-name-change-organization-vs-event" id="why-the-name-change-organization-vs-event"></a>

The label “World IA Day” has been used for many things: from talking about the annual events to referring to the organization itself. The label has overgrown its usage and we on the global board have decided to split the label into two so that a clear distinction can be made between the Day and Association and their objectives:

* “World IA Day” — refers to the annual events that take place in February/March
* “World Information Architecture Association” — refers to the organization behind the events, spelling out “IA” for clarity

We’ll talk about why World IA Day the organization is changing its name, what changes and what stays the same, and what’s new and exciting about our vision for the future of the #InformationArchitecture community-at-large.

The mission for World Information Architecture Association is focused on the spread of information architecture to:

* Build and connect a global community of IA advocates and practitioners
* Promote the role of IA in different fields
* Provide resources for learning and professional development
* Engage IA academics and professionals in research and development

The local events will still be the same. As it is now, event names should take on “World IA Day” as the prefix in front of the event name, i.e. “World IA Day Moscow”, “World IA Day Egypt”, “World IA Day Italia”, “World IA Day New York”.

* If people asked you, what events have you attended? You can still say that you went to World IA Day + {local event name}
* If someone asked you, what event are you organizing? World IA Day + {local event name}
* If someone asked you, who’s behind World IA Day? You can say, it’s the volunteer nonprofit organization called World Information Architecture Association, where you then lapse into a 30-hour conversation about structure, meaning, and sense-making or {insert your own definition or metaphor for explaining information architecture}.

### **What’s in a name: Association and Identity** <a href="#whats-in-a-name-association-and-identity" id="whats-in-a-name-association-and-identity"></a>

As we talk about World IA Day, we’ve consistently had to refer to World IA Day, the organization vs World IA Day, the annual event.

Considering the feedback from the community (June 2020, Future of World IA Day workshops) that was focused on the need for more events and services, we questioned whether it was the role for World IA Day as an organization to step up and fulfill that need. We realized that, for this to happen, the organization needed to garner support as a year-round entity and not around the event that happens once a year.

By taking on a new identity, we are setting up expectations for an organization around information architecture as a profession.

### **Whose decision was it to change the name? Who was involved?** <a href="#whose-decision-was-it-to-change-the-name-who-was-involved" id="whose-decision-was-it-to-change-the-name-who-was-involved"></a>

We knew that it was eventually going to happen when the organization was set up in late 2019. The paperwork was set up very quickly to make sure that WIAD20 would be able to operate with a legal and fiscal entity supporting it, World IA Day, Inc.

The global board of directors started the discussion around renaming in spring 2021. We brainstormed various options and steered away from others, namely, Institute and Foundation, to avoid confusion with known entities.

Along the way, we considered the play-on acronyms of WIAO (for World IA Organization), WIAS (for Society), and WIAA (for Agency or Action) and had fun pronouncing them out loud as words, not letters. Eventually, the board narrowed down the options to 2: Association and Community. Through a blind poll from the global board and advisors, it was determined 10 to 4 in favor of “association”.

How does the word “association” translate? What is the etymology behind “association”? Was it something that was easy to understand and conveyed? Here are some responses we received from the board and advisors about their reasons for choosing “Association” over “Community”:

### **Arguments for association:** <a href="#arguments-for-association" id="arguments-for-association"></a>

* \[…] association not only implies a professional connection, but could also be used as a pathway towards such an organization. The collapse of the \[Information Architecture Institute, the former organizer of World IA Day] has left a void. If IA actually needs a professional association is another question, but association leaves open that possibility. It’s easier to imagine that as a potential (though not forgone) outcome from the WIAD association.
* The word “association” carries baggage but is more honest.
* Because it implies a professional organization!
* There are lots of great communities already. There are a few associations (by name) but they mostly act like communities. We need associations even though they are harder. We need people to think in terms of professionalism, being committed to a higher purpose, and being willing to invest time and money \[in]to it.
* You want the added layer of legitimation / solidity that comes with “association.” The association cares for the community.
* \[…] community is a word without meaning and power. It’s like the word “excitement.” Speakers are “excited to be here.” Companies are “excited to announce.” Everyone says they are excited and yet nobody actually feels genuinely excited. How can we when everyone is always excited, all the time, about everyone\[?]
* So too with community. The twitter community. The board gaming community. The community for “insert online forums for users of some product made by a Fortune 500 company”. More than a dozen people with a shared interest in a thing is considered a community. The word no longer signifies anything meaningful to me.
* I think it can convey “a sense of belongingness” and it “relates to people on the same level.” So I agree with the sentiment and reasoning for this choice. But I feel the word has become co-opted and overused so much that it no longer conveys the richness and warmth it once did.
* The word “community” sounds better, but it belongs to the actual community, not to any one organization.

Overall, the sentiment was to attain a professional identity around the information architecture work we do, learn, and practice and a sense of shared belonging and identity.

The global board wants to know from you. A group of volunteers is helping us find out what you think is important for a community and professional association around information architecture. This is part of our continuous efforts to hear back from the community-at-large. There’s a lot at stake to reform this organization. We’d like to include you along this journey.

Let us hear from you: <https://forms.worldiaday.org/community-research>

This article was originally published on Medium: <https://medium.com/worldiaday/introducing-the-new-world-information-architecture-association-200cb2a15442>

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Announcing the WIAD22 global keynote: Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes

Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes will deliver the World IA Day 2022 global keynote on Architecting Interaction and creating contexts that facilitate connections in physical and digital spaces.

By Ghada Kandil and [Grace Lau](/people/person/grace-lau)\
Reviewed by Andrea Rosenbusch

**28 October 2021** — We are thrilled to announce Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes as the 2022 World Information Architecture Day (WIAD) global keynote speaker!

<figure><img src="/files/3us8YnDcZGx0AwYA7GoS" alt=""><figcaption><p>Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes will be the global keynote speaker for the 2022 World IA Day on 5 March 2021 online.</p></figcaption></figure>

### Architecting a Connected World <a href="#b433" id="b433"></a>

Stephanie’s vision of Architecting Interaction explores how we can create contexts — physical, digital or other — that facilitate interactions and nurture connections. Architecting Interaction, like information architecture, is not an end in itself, but a process. It is a process centred on facilitating connectedness. It connects different stakeholders, helps them make sense of connections, and empowers them to continue building connections in and for the future.

### Preview from 2018 <a href="#c3b0" id="c3b0"></a>

For a glimpse of her topic, watch the talk she presented at WIAD Switzerland in 2018.

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/258795415>" %}
Stephanie presented “Architecting Interactions: Interactions are the Seeds of Innovation” at World IA Day Zurich in 2018. <https://worldiaday.org/talks/architecting-interactions-interactions-are-seeds-innovation>
{% endembed %}

We are excited to have Stephanie join us in March next year.

Keep updated on World IA Day news by subscribing to [our global newsletter](https://www.information-architecture.world/newsletter/) or following us on Medium.

### More about Stephanie <a href="#be57" id="be57"></a>

Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes is a visionary leader of a new calibre, using her vision of Architecting Interaction as an aspirational and operational framework. She is an advocate of value created through cross-disciplinary interactions. She believes that the most sustainable innovation will happen at the intersection of different fields; that interactions are the seeds of innovation, Architecting Interaction explores how spaces and contexts can foster the interactions needed for innovation.

Born and raised in the Middle East, Stephanie has cross-cultural experiences which helped in shaping her compelling and engaging voice. She has given speeches at numerous corporate companies, international conferences, governmental institutions and educational institutions worldwide.

Stephanie is the founder and CEO of [AKKA Architects](https://www.akkaarchitects.com/). Among her recent clients are Guardian Glass, Saint Gobain, the European Commission, and a number of Dutch ministries. Stephanie also serves on the advisory and executive boards of a number of business & creative organizations.

* Website: <https://www.akkaarchitects.com/>
* Twitter: <https://twitter.com/s_akkaouihughes>
* LinkedIn: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieakkaoui/>

***

UPDATED: 2022 January 18 to include an abstract of Stephanie’s talk and link to the global theme.

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Advocating a digital-first WIAD22

Join WIAD22 on March 5 to explore "A Connected World" through information architecture. Attend global digital events or host one in your city. #WIAD22

By: Ghada Kandil, Andrea Rosenbusch\
Reviewed by Asha Singh and Grace Lau

**25 September 2021** — On 5 March 2022, WIAD events around the world will explore the theme of “[A Connected World](/worldiaday/events/world-ia-day-2022)” through the lens of information architecture.

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1600/1*-Jy3fKfhEbZKOwj4qT7AkA.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>The WIAD22 global theme is <a href="/spaces/WfyvOXbZrhAqKTUW8qog/pages/ZF81CyakFdYsUP48sRHe"><strong>A Connected World</strong></a></p></figcaption></figure>

It is time to start talking about World IA Day 2022 (WIAD22)! Earlier this year for WIAD21, over 45 online events hosted discussions about Curiosity and IA in 23 countries around the world.

With the success of a fully-digital WIAD21 earlier this year; the continued pandemic state of the world; in solidarity with our global community who may have vaccine shortages; and great opportunities for accessibility, inclusion, and global viewership; World IA Day Global advocates the digital-first organization strategy of local WIAD22 events around the world.

#### Events attendees

If you’re looking forward to a WIAD event, stay tuned! We plan to have a global talk and live Q\&A sessions with our global keynote speaker. If you want to event-hop and explore local conversations about “A Connected World” and the discipline and practice of information architecture, you’ll be able to jump from Cebu City to Zurich along with us next March.

#### Events organizers

If you’re considering organizing or have already submitted an application to host a local WIAD event, that’s great! Here’s what we’re doing to support your planning:

* Revamping the [Organizer Guide](/world-ia-day-organizer-guide) to include online event planning logistics
* Adding online event planning templates

The global WIAD22 team will also plan to support you as much as we can with

* Partnering with an online event management service
* Hosting videos on our Vimeo channel
* Partnering with a transcription and/or translation provider to make your local talks accessible to a wider audience.

In doubt you are able to host an event in your city? Let us talk! We are here to help and support you. Online events are easier to plan. Contact the global executive producer at <producer@worldiaday.org> or the regional directors nearest you:

* Asia-Pacific: <contact-apac@worldiaday.org>\
  Joy Hong (Singapore)
* Europe: <contact-europe@worldiaday.org> \
  Paolo Montevecchi (Italy)
* Latin America: <contact-latam@worldiaday.org> \
  Alysson Franklin Martins Moreira (Mexico)\
  Luis Alveart (Columbia)
* Middle East & Africa: <contact-mea@worldiaday.org> \
  Ahmad Alhuwwari (Jordan)\
  Ghada Kandil (Egypt)
* North America: <contact-noram@worldiaday.org> \
  Mark Wolfe (United States)

***

Tags: [World IA Day](/blog/topics/world-ia-day)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Take the State of IA 2021 Survey

Take the 2021 State of Information Architecture survey. Research documenting who practices IA, what work they do, and the future of the field in 2021.

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/2400/1*pX-LTYu8pM5XhRb9qzZ0ag.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>What is the state of information architecture in 2021?</p></figcaption></figure>

**11 June 2021** — In 2021, World IA Day partnered with [Optimal Workshop](https://www.optimalworkshop.com/) to conduct comprehensive research documenting the state of information architecture practice, examining who was practicing IA, what work they were doing, and how they understood the future of the field.

At the same time, this research will document the state of the practice and field of information architecture in 2021 and provide a snapshot for future research, development, and understanding of information architecture.

<a href="http://bit.ly/StateofIA2021" class="button primary">Take the survey</a>

We are working on translations of this survey to be available by the end of June. If you are available to translate and make this survey available in other languages, please email <grace.lau@worldiaday.org>.

***

Tags: [State of IA](/blog/topics/state-of-ia)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# When WIAD does research

WIAD 2020 research reveals IA and UX professionals perform similar tasks regardless of job title. Explore survey findings and download report.

***

By: Paolo Montevecchi\
Reviewed by Grace Lau

**19 May 2021** — In 2020, on February 22nd to be precise, the last live World information Architecture Day took place. It was just over a year ago, but it feels like a lifetime!

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/2400/1*_pJ6zuV4J7JUtt0NJlSnuQ.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>The State of Information Architecture 2020</p></figcaption></figure>

On that occasion, we asked the participants of WIAD events to take part in some research; a survey we made thanks to Optimal Workshop, one of our longest-standing supporters.

The purpose of the research was to acquire information that would help us learn more about our global community to create an “identikit” of our guests. We were particularly interested in understanding how many of us identified as Information Architects and which fundamental IA skills were used by other professionals, too. Promoting and practicing IA as well as monitoring its growth are among the aims of the WIAD.

#### **The Research**

Participants were invited at local events, in order to keep age distribution and location as varied as possible. For the same reason, the survey was available in both English and Spanish: a small but important step, as the community speaks more than ten languages!

We used Optimal Workshop (in particular the card sorting tool) and asked participants to answer questions and perform activities related to two main research goals:

1. The first goal was to gather demographic/personal information regarding the WIAD conference. Knowing who participates in our events is essential for various reasons, whether from a purely logistical point of view or to gauge expectations of the event and topics for communities working in different cultures.
2. The other goal related to the name people give to their profession and the tasks they perform while at work. We tried to understand (through card sorting) how often the participants fulfilled specific duties, selected as representative tasks for the profession.

#### **Results: Demographic information**

We included more than 400 people in the study, mainly between the ages of 25 and 44. About 60% identified as women.

Most had been in their profession for a relatively short time, between one and three years. The data portrays a professional landscape in continuous evolution and could hint at the work world’s recent increase in attention on the topic. The research also shows that people changed roles quickly, yet still remained in the same job sector.

Secondly, we asked people to define their work roles by choosing from a proposed selection.

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1600/1*hrMt_11D0FQ4pGXQEwR5ww.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The result, as expected, revealed that the vast majority of participants defined themselves as UX Designers. There could be many reasons behind this. The expression “UX Designer” is the most widespread, most international (not all participants are native English speakers), and often (controversially) used as an umbrella term for all professions that deal with people and design.

It is curious that WIAD event attendees who call themselves information architects reflected only a modest percentage of those who participated in the research.

Some participants even felt represented by a combination of roles, confirming the evolution of the field in a professional sense as well.

#### **Results: Typical IA activities**

The second part of the research focused on typical IA activities. We asked people to report which tasks (from a list of the most common and characteristic) were part of the participants’ workday.

Each work activity could be classified in three different ways, ranging from “do little/rarely” to “do a lot /always”

We pooled the answers into three main clusters related to the professions to highlight the similarities and differences between UX, IA, and the other professional fields of the participants.

<figure><img src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1600/1*W63-etTGmzLzhOM_Ahb0Sw.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The first datapoint of note is that WIAD audience members appear interested in IA because a good portion of their work directly concerns activities that we ascribe to the IA discipline. This finding pertains to those who defined themselves as Information Architects but it encompasses everyone else too, including the UX Designers in the group.

The results also show how some activities, among those proposed (and typically considered specific to the role of Information Architect) are carried out more frequently by UX Designers than others. Weird, huh?

That last observation was difficult to interpret. We propose two explanations:

1. It helps us understand some specific characteristics of UX Designers in the current professional scene;
2. It shows how this role is widespread amongst organizations as a lot of people see themselves in it. The data collected return a very varied image of the context within which this type of professional is employed and how the role is applied. Undoubtedly, being part of a small organization vs. a larger one affects the variety and number of tasks that UX Designers have to perform.

#### **Insights Gained**

The research provided some assurance and lays the foundations for an in-depth and critical discussion of the role of Information Architect.

Some insights:

1\. There doesn’t seem to be a big difference between the tasks performed by Information Architects and UX Designers, regardless of organization size. In larger, mature companies, people probably perform fewer and more specialized tasks. In smaller (or less mature) studios, people are used to carrying out different activities, no matter their role.

2\. The term “UX Designer” still does not identify a specific role or skill set, more than ten years after the [Memphis plenary](https://vimeo.com/4304573)\* This also makes it difficult to define it, especially outside communities like the one behind WIAD. How can the industry understand which person it needs if multiple roles seem to include identical tasks? The most specific UX task was “Determine the experience of something from end to end” while the least specific task was “Determine how things are related” which showed almost no difference between job types.

3\. WIAD participants are **people** first and foremost, and they carry out activities related to information architecture, even though it may not actually be the main activity required by their role in the organization.

What about you? Did you participate in our research? What do you think about the results? Let us know by commenting below or writing to us at <info@worldiaday.org>

🤓 If you want to read the entire research study, you can find on the [WIAD Github](https://github.com/worldiaday/StateofIAReport/tree/main/2020).

Happy reading!

*\* More about the Memphis plenary* [*http://www.jjg.net/ia/memphis/*](http://www.jjg.net/ia/memphis/)

***

Thank you to the team at [Optimal Workshop](https://medium.com/u/326ad2ff25eb) for supporting this research and analysis!

***

Tags: [State of IA](/blog/topics/state-of-ia)

***

### About World Information Architecture Association

The World Information Architecture Association is a global community of professionals dedicated to the advancement of information architecture, a discipline devoted to the understanding of how information is structured and understood. We are committed to promoting the understanding and practice of information architecture through education, research, and collaboration.&#x20;

Learn more at [information-architecture.world](https://www.information-architecture.world/)


# Topics

<table data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th>Heading</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref">Link</th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>World IA Day</strong></td><td><a href="/pages/u9kAWanBg32WKMlLEx2K">/pages/u9kAWanBg32WKMlLEx2K</a></td><td><a href="/files/fkL8rkG0WSmeLyIhTcxw">/files/fkL8rkG0WSmeLyIhTcxw</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Future of WIAA</strong></td><td><a href="/pages/XRFT073A8tuoVIJxTTFC">/pages/XRFT073A8tuoVIJxTTFC</a></td><td><a href="/files/8f8geIk1JYC4odjwTrOE">/files/8f8geIk1JYC4odjwTrOE</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# World IA Day

## World IA Day 2026 (March 7)

* [World Information Architecture Day 2026 on DESIGNING FOR MEANING](/blog/2025/world-information-architecture-day-2026-on-designing-for-meaning)

## World IA Day 2025 (March 8)

* [Andrea Resmini to be Global Keynote Speaker for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/andrea-resmini-to-be-global-keynote-speaker-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Join us for World Information Architecture Day 2025](/blog/2024/join-us-for-world-information-architecture-day-2025)
* [Theme of World IA Day 2025-Challenging Changes](/blog/2024/theme-of-world-ia-day-2025-challenging-changes)

## World IA Day 2024

* [World Information Architecture Day 2024 on CONTEXT](/blog/2023/world-information-architecture-day-2024-on-context)

## World IA Day 2022

* [Advocating a digital-first WIAD22](/blog/2021/25-sep-wiad22-theme-digital-first)
* [Announcing the WIAD22 global keynote: Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes](/blog/2021/28-oct-wiad22-global-keynote)


# Future of WIAA

## 2026

* [A recap on the 2025 Future of WIAA workshops](/blog/2026/a-recap-on-the-2025-future-of-wiaa-workshops)
* [To what end do we design? The heart of Information Architecture](/blog/2026/to-what-end-do-we-design-the-heart-of-information-architecture)

## 2025

* [Everything Flows. And So Does WIAA.](/blog/2025/12-nov-2025-everything-flows-and-so-does-wiaa)


# State of IA

* [Take the State of IA 2021 Survey](/blog/2021/take-the-state-of-ia-2021-survey)


# Board Spotlight

* [Meet Rupa Misra](/blog/2022/meet-rupa-misra)




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