What is the role of an Information Architect? [closed]

Question

I've heard this term bandied about, especially in reference to web development, but I'm having trouble getting a clear understanding of what an Information Architect actually does.

Any ideas what their role or deliverables would be?

Answer 1

As I understand it, an Information Architect decides how information will be organized and presented on a web site. This would include navigation, aggregation, presentation (more what is presented than how) and access control (including security and filtering). Think of them as responsible for "content design", as opposed to "site design".

Answer 2

I.A.I. definition

Information architecture is defined by the Information Architecture Institute as:

1. The structural design of shared information environments.
2. The art and science of organizing and labeling web sites, intranets, online communities, and software to support findability and usability.
3. An emerging community of practice focused on bringing principles of design and architecture to the digital landscape.