For any business, Information Architecture (IA) and content strategy play a significant role improving their users’ experience. The challenge lies in figuring out if they are building the right type of content for users' needs. The solution is unifying design and content with IA professionals—all working harmoniously together. In the first half of your 12-week course, you explore the basics of content strategy—from research and development through governance. You finish up your studies by learning the the vocabulary, processes and key deliverables of IA. Go from high-level conceptual thinking to real-world practical designs in the organization of complex websites and UX projects. You will leave the course with a project presentation for an organization that can become part of your UX portfolio.
Course Outline
Course Objectives
- Understand how IA and content strategy define an organization’s online presence
- Describe each planning phase of content strategy
- Assess IA and content strategy for different verticals, products, brands, audiences and channels
- Evaluate IA and content quality and discoverability by conducting research to understand user needs and behaviors
- Translate research findings into practical designs and content
- Specify, design and prototype optimized navigational systems, including labels, tags and taxonomies
- Describe the role of a content management system (CMS), templates and microcopy in content strategy and identify related deliverables
- Integrate SEO and accessibility initiatives to enhance content discoverability
- Apply key UX concepts to real-world situations
- Connect with top UX research firms and content resources to facilitate ongoing learning and class discussions
What You Learn
- Content strategy planning phases
- Content audits
- Voice and tone assessment
- SEO and accessibility
- Audience engagement
- Personas
- Card sorting
- Taxonomies
- Tree tests
- Mental models and use cases
- Wayfinding
- Navigation
How You Learn
- Lectures
- Discussions
- In-class demonstrations
- Independent research
- Design and content strategy exercises
- Individual and group assignments
Is This Course Right for Me?
This course is ideal for professionals and aspiring UX designers who want to further their career opportunities at a current employer, find a new job or grow their own business.