INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE

Connect your mission and message across digital channels.

Design, construct, and maintain your information.

Your collections, files, and records are the foundation of your organization’s knowledge. Without structure and description, that information becomes invisible and unusable. Info Ark helps you design and maintain systems that keep it organized, accessible, and built to last.

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Why Information Architecture Matters

What's Information Architecture?

Information architecture is the design of how information is organized, labeled, and connected so people can actually find and use it. It is the structural foundation of websites, archives, databases, and repositories. Information management builds on that structure by focusing on how information is created, described, stored, and maintained over time. Together, they ensure that knowledge is not just collected but preserved, discoverable, and usable for the long term.

Why does this matter?

Information scattered across drives, folders, and tools wastes time and hides value.
Poorly structured systems make training, collaboration, and continuity harder.
Consistent metadata and cataloging prevent information loss and duplication.
Clear organization improves search, usability, and long-term preservation.
Sustainable structures make it possible to scale, share, and adapt as technology changes.

BUILD WITH INFO ARK

Cataloging & Metadata

Metadata work ensures that items can be found across systems, linked to related materials, and reused in new research or digital environments. Create descriptive, administrative, and structural metadata that follow recognized standards such as MARC, Dublin Core, MODS, or EAD. Improve discovery and interoperability by applying controlled vocabularies and authority data.

Archiving

Preserve physical and digital materials through organized acquisition, description, and long-term storage practices. Apply archival standards such as DACS for description and Encoded Archival Description for digital finding aids. Implement access controls, storage monitoring, and environmental management to safeguard materials while supporting discovery and access.

Institutional Repositories

Design and implement repository structures that align with open access and preservation standards such as OAIS and OAI-PMH. Configure metadata schemas, submission workflows, and user permissions to support faculty research, student work, and archival materials. Repositories are developed for scalability and sustainability, ensuring that digital assets are securely stored, discoverable, and accessible.

Collection Development

Develop collection development plans, metadata application profiles, and digital preservation policies that guide responsible management of institutional assets. Establish clear documentation for selection, appraisal, rights management, and retention practices. Policy development supports transparency and ensures consistent decision-making across projects and departments, strengthening long-term stewardship.

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