How can you communicate better with Information Architects and UX Designers?

1 Learn the basics of IA and UX

You don't have to be an expert, but having some familiarity with the key concepts and methods of IA and UX can help you appreciate their role and challenges. For example, you can learn about the difference between sitemaps, wireframes, and prototypes, and how they are used to communicate the information architecture and user interface design of a project. You can also learn about the user research techniques and tools that IA and UX designers use to gather insights and feedback from the users, such as personas, scenarios, interviews, surveys, and usability testing.

2 Respect their process and deliverables

IA and UX designers follow a process that involves research, analysis, design, testing, and iteration. They produce various deliverables that document their findings and recommendations, such as user needs, user journeys, content audits, information models, navigation schemes, and design patterns. These deliverables are not just sketches or mockups, but evidence-based and user-centered solutions that require time, effort, and validation. Respect their process and deliverables by giving them enough space and resources to do their work, reviewing them carefully and constructively, and implementing them faithfully.

3 Align on the goals and scope of the project

One of the main sources of confusion and conflict between different roles in a digital project is the lack of clarity and alignment on the goals and scope of the project. IA and UX designers need to understand the purpose, vision, and objectives of the project, as well as the constraints, assumptions, and requirements that define its scope. This will help them create a suitable information architecture and user experience that supports the project goals and meets the user needs. To align on the goals and scope of the project, you should communicate them clearly and consistently, involve IA and UX designers from the start, and establish a common language and framework.

4 Collaborate and co-create with them

IA and UX designers are not isolated or independent from the rest of the project team. They are part of a collaborative and co-creative process that involves multiple stakeholders, disciplines, and perspectives. To communicate better with them, you should engage with them throughout the project, not just at the beginning or the end. You should also participate in their activities and workshops, such as brainstorming, ideation, sketching, prototyping, and testing. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of their work, share your ideas and feedback, and build trust and rapport.

5 Ask questions and provide feedback

One of the best ways to communicate better with IA and UX designers is to ask questions and provide feedback. Asking questions shows that you are interested and curious about their work, and that you want to learn more and clarify any doubts or gaps. Providing feedback shows that you are supportive and constructive, and that you want to help them improve and refine their work. However, you should avoid asking questions or providing feedback that are vague, irrelevant, or judgmental. Instead, you should ask questions or provide feedback that are specific, relevant, and actionable.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?