Information Mapping - Overview

Overview

Information Mapping™ is a research-based approach for creating structured documents and communications. Its goal is to produce clear, concise, and user-focused communications. This is done by analyzing, organizing, and presenting information based on audience needs and the purpose of the information. The method is subject-matter and media independent.

Robert Horn and his colleagues identified dozens of common documentation types, then analyzed them into structural components called information blocks. They identified over 200 common block types. These were assembled into information types using information maps.

According to Horn and his colleagues, the six most common information types are:

• Procedure
• Process
• Principle
• Concept
• Fact
• Structure

The information mapping goal is measurable results that change the way people present information.

Horn's research-based, structured authoring methodology (The Method) forms the foundation of all of his company's (Information Mapping, Inc.) services: content development and management tools, professional services, and training. Institutions such as the University of Maryland's Human Computer Interaction (HCI) program and organizations such as the Parsons Institute for Information Mapping™ have extended this methodology to include greater graphic design, visualization, technology, and knowledge management capabilities into the process of mapping information.

Information Mapping has close ties to information visualization, information architecture, graphic design, information design, and data analysis. The field has responded to advances in Information Technology to also closely tie to: user experience design, graphic user interface design, and knowledge management systems.

Go to informationmapping.com for more information.