Dimple,
Our sitemap mimics the users' mental model. First, users/customers
don't really use sites in terms of pages. They don't search for pages,
they search for information and functions. Second, they don't surf in
a linear fashion.
Based on that, we've developed a sitemap model that mimics the users'
mental model, is a bit abstracted, accommodates for the way they surf
(non-linear, non-page paradigm).
Our sitemap model includes a visual illustration of where things live
(e.g. content, functions), descriptions of the audiences who are using
the site (product), primary user experience issues, and a key on one
page, a mental model diagram on another page, and finally a
user/business goals matrix that shows where in the site we intend to
address/achieve these goals.
A sample is available at:
http://messagefirst.com/downloads/BR_Sitemap_v1.5.pdf (1.6MB)
On Feb 27, 2005, at 12:55 PM, Dimple Mohan wrote:
> What elements comprise your sitemap deliverable? At what stage of your
> production process do you start creating this deliverable? Do you
> create one at all? If not how what are your approaches to offering
> navigation and content type suggestions to your client? Do you think
> metadata, content tagging and keyword site searches can mitigate the
> use of a site map? Would you recommend Site Indexes as a better
> navigation tool than site maps? Any research or writing to support
> your input?
>
> Also, I would appreciate if you could direct me to reports or writings
> or findings on the importance and approach to creating sitemap
> deliverables as well the popularity of the use of the site indexes in
> web initiatives today.
>
>
> Thanks,
> Dimple Mohan
Cheers!
Todd R. Warfel
Partner, Design & Usability Specialist
MessageFirst | making products easier to use
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