2018: Convergence
Everything is merging. Physical and digital environments are increasingly intertwined. Virtual reality is challenging our understanding of what’s real. Societal shifts are demanding new ways of thinking about and managing information. Business, design, culture and society are intersecting in fascinating and maddening ways.
2017: Designing for Humans
Information Architects have always recognized the essential role of the user. To be successful, IA must work for people. But as artificial intelligence and machine learning increase in power and prevalence, how can we ensure that technology serves human needs, and not the other way around?
2016: The Broader Panorama
Digital spaces are becoming ever more interactive and continuing to move away from a page-based model. Cross-channel, data-dependent, multi-platform, context-aware content has become the norm. In this new reality, the intentional design of information environments for findability, understanding, and adaptability has never been more important.
2015: Reclaiming Information Architecture
In 2015 we’re “reclaiming information architecture’’ as the focus of the IA Summit. This isn’t just a theme, it’s the start of a long-term goal to bring renewed purpose to our series of events, year after year.
2014: The Path Ahead
In our 15th year, we came together to reflect upon current challenges and opportunities, as well as the rich history of this annual gathering and the conversations it has begun.
2013: Observe, Share, Build, Repeat
Technology changes quickly. A lot of organizations struggle to keep up with this change. It’s not just mobile design that’s throwing a wrench in the spokes. Content strategy and information architecture are more important than ever in this changing, multi device landscape.
2012: Cross Your Channels in Multivariate
Focusing on maturing the practice of user experience and information architecture amidst a constantly evolving ecosystem of devices and platforms. It’s not easy being a user in a cross-channel world, but it’s not nearly as difficult as being an information architect.
2011: Asking Better Questions
Asking better questions, is an invitation for the community to challenge assumptions about the role of information architecture in how we conceive experiences, create products, study people and understand the world.
2010: The best conversations happen in the hall
Our theme is meant to inspire everyone in the community—even those who aren’t presenting or volunteering—to bring their best ideas to the table. This is an opportunity to help each other become more efficient. By gathering and sharing practical solutions for everyday challenges, we can create more breathing room to plan for what’s to come.