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We're committed to research

Why do we care about research? In the fields of information architecture and professional communication, the answer may seem obvious: We research to gather evidence to back up our ideas. We research to correct the faulty assumptions we might have about how users use our texts and why. We research to respond to individuals who may rely on preference rather than evidence for their document-design choices.

We synthesize the research in information architecture

As researchers, we have not set our sights on discovering new or startling facts about human conduct. Instead, we synthesize information— gathering information, reviewing it, making sense of it.

In our work, we've delved into different fields that contribute to information architecture. During our study, we've learned that some scholars and practitioners concern themselves with distinguishing among the "fields." We don't. As user-advocates, we don't focus on thinking within the field itself (or even demanding that we "be" the label "information architect." Instead, we focus on whatever it takes to help others understand information better. We focus on how the structure of information can better serve the needs of the intended audience.

We participate in an ongoing conversation

As researchers and practitioners in this emerging field, we look for ways to report results that are useful to our clients and industry colleagues. This requires us to keep digging deeper and deeper into past writing and current thought. We believe that, by gathering knowledge about how the craft and scholarly traditions have evolved, we can help others understand how to apply principles and use information. We also believe that by exploring both qualitative and quantitative studies, we can identify new approaches to structuring information.

And although we have a personal interest in discovering, searching, and exploring new knowledge, we also have a profound desire to share our findings with others. We believe that by increasing our expertise, we can offer perspective, authenticity, and trust.

To find out more about how Info.Design's research can benefit your organization, e-mail thom@thomhaller.com.