Poster

Concept Models: Techniques for Next Generation Information Architecture

Dan Brown

Concept models are simple diagrams that pack a lot of punch. Information architects have adopted this technique as a means for:

• understanding the information space in which they're working
• illustrating structures that might serve as the foundation for a web site

Founded on the simple premise that any domain can be represented as nouns connected by verbs, concept models are easy to understand. What may be more difficult is creating them, and then using them in the design process. Information architects may not be aware of how to apply these models effectively as a design technique.

This poster will provide examples of concept models and describe:

• Purpose, elements, and format: What concept models do and what they look like.
• Benefits and advantages: How concept models compare to other techniques.
• Creation: Simple steps and tips for creating concept models.
• Use: Tips and techniques for employing concept models in the design process.