Media: Morville on Information Architecture and its new Institute

Following the launch of the Asilomar Institute for Information Architecture, Peter Morville looks at progress for IA. In "The Definition of Information Architecture", Morville suggests that there have been two predictable reactions to the launch: 'Is this yet another attempt to define IA?' and 'What is IA and why have I never heard of it?' and warns that IA insiders, who have lived through a decade of definitional debates, are tired of arguing over minutia, while outside the field ignorance prevails.

If nothing else, he says, AIfIA presents an opportunity for information architects to join forces and speak out. 'We must focus our message. We must carefully select our target audiences. And then we must speak loudly and clearly.'

And in addition, he hopes that by listening carefully to people's reactions and involving outsiders in the discussion, by making connections to other communities and disciplines 'then we can learn how to improve the practice of information architecture'.

'Now is the time to enter the conversation. Become a member, a partner, or a volunteer. Or simply challenge us by asking difficult and provocative questions,' he says.

Information architecture is in the news because of the institute, but also because long-time collaborator with Morville, Lou Rosenfeld has been in town. Read about his presentation to the London AIGA design community in UN story: Rosenfeld explains Enterprise Information Architecture.

Associated Link: Semantic Studios: The Definition of Information Architecture

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