Information architecture (or IA) is another of those nebulous terms that means different things to different people.

Essentially, it is a development discipline that can bring huge value during the product lifecycle by providing transparency to complex details.

Not only does IA outline the roadmap but it provides the detailed directions for reaching the destination. Specifics include:

The suitability of the proposed design is evaluated against analysis of potential users and user habits

The design structure and flows are honed to meet sponsors' needs as well as users' needs

The highly visual approach is a benefit to managing client expectations and sign-off processes

LaunchPlusOne recommends the use of IA on small and large developments and can provide this expertise to in-house or third party development teams.