Common Information Architecture Mistakes

What are some common information architecture mistakes that most web designers make when creating a website? This can be broken down into two categories. These categories are structure mistakes and navigation mistakes.

Structure Mistakes

One common structure mistake is that there is no structure to the website. This causes a lot of confusion for the user because they have no chance of understanding the site. This also causes them to leave the site quickly. Both the search and the structure should be integrated. The navigation designs need to indicate the user’s current location. After they click a result, they should know exactly where they are on the web page.

Navigation Mistakes

One major navigation mistake is having invisible navigation options. Don’t make the user search for the navigation. Nobody likes to have to search for it. Also, don’t put the navigation next to advertisements and similar items. This will cause the user to tune it out. Navigation elements that move or bounce also detract from the usability of the website. Consistent navigation is a must. Do not change the navigation with every page. This causes frustration.

These are just a few examples of the mistakes that are commonly made. There are many other mistakes that information architects make when designing a website.