School of Information, The University of Texas at Austin
i385F Special Topics in Information Architecture
Spring 2007

Main Project (35%) [Top]

Main project work is done by an individual and can include prototyping site structures, creating user stories, building navigation systems, lightweight information taxonomies and functionality testing. Some individual work will be done with pair programming techniques in class, to be followed up with individual home work to present and discuss in following classes. The Main Project will be presented in class, April 24th.

Site Design Critique Paper (10%) [Top]

The design critique is a five page written critique with accompanying "before" and "after" screenshots of the Web page(s) critiqued from a Web site approved by the instructor. This paper requires a critique of the overall site (not just the main page) and should review navigation, overall information architecture, code quality, interaction methods, graphic design and layout quality and your own alternate ideas for site designs. This assignment is due on February 20th. Bring a printed copy to class and send a copy as an attachment to the TA.

Design Project (20%) [Top]

The Design project is one that requires preparing site design deliverables to Plan, Analyze and Prototype a site idea of your own choosing (preferably a unique idea). A project proposal is required and must receive approval before additional project work begins. The Design Project is due April 3rd Deliverables include:

• Review and analyze comparable Web sites.
• Plan project work and associated project deliverables and timelines.
• Use a development methodology as process framework for Web site information architecture and design.
• Design Web pages per user stories.
• Build lightweight prototypes

Class Participation & Review Papers (15%)

Students should arrive at class prepared to share their views on the week's assignments and readings by posting to the class listserv. Professional conduct is required of each student. This includes but is not limited to: attendance, polite discussions, timely completion of assignments and group participation.

Project Consulting (5%) [Top]

Project consulting involves working with other students to help them design and evaluate their Main projects. Most consulting will be done in class, but some email and outside of class critique and evaluation may be required.

Research Topic Presentation (15%) [Top]

Students will choose a topic relevant to Information Architecture to present in class (25 minutes). Research and review of the topic are required, along with design critiques and speculation about the future of the topic.

After completing the class presentation, send a copy of your presentation as an attachment to the TA.

Class presentations will be evaluated based on a number of different criteria. The grading criteria for your class presentations is outlined in the Presentation Evaluation form.