Maps as Patterns

Information architecture artifacts (sitemaps, taxonomies, navigation structures) are maps of a territory, not the territory itself. The map is a model that highlights some aspects while hiding others.

Implications

No Perfect Map: All representations involve choices about what to include Multiple Maps: Different purposes require different maps of the same territory Map-Territory Gap: Users experience the territory; designers create maps Evolution: As territory changes, maps must be updated

Design Application

• Make map assumptions explicit
• Test maps against actual user journeys
• Maintain multiple views for different audiences
• Plan for map maintenance as content evolves

Related: 02-molecule—taxonomy-design, 02-molecule—five-hat-racks