This project focused on designing the information architecture for a UK day trip tour booking website. From domain modelling to creating wireframes, I worked on crafting a user-centred system to simplify discovering and booking tours.
Planning day trips in the UK can be overwhelming, with scattered information making it difficult for users to find suitable tours. This project tackled that challenge by creating an intuitive information architecture for a day trip booking website.
I began by researching the domain, interviewing experts and travellers, and identifying key user needs. Insights guided the creation of a domain model that highlighted relationships between key entities like destinations, activities, and reviews. Using these foundations, I developed a sitemap, refining it through card sorting and tree testing to optimise navigation paths.
The user journey mapped typical flows, such as browsing destinations or searching for tours, ensuring users could find options tailored to their needs. Wireframes brought the architecture to life, showcasing pages like the destination results and individual tour details. User testing provided critical feedback, leading to refinements such as adding rating filters and clarifying search features.
This project strengthened my expertise in information architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful structuring can enhance user experience and meet diverse needs.
1. Building domain model
Interviews with domain experts and travellers helped shape a domain model capturing key entities and their relationships.
This domain model served as a foundational framework that ensured a clear understanding of how users might explore and evaluate day trip tours.
2. Constructing sitemap
Leveraging user insights, I designed a hierarchical sitemap focused on global navigation elements like destinations and reviews. Card sorting and tree testing refined categories and labels, improving findabillity through logical organisation.
3. Designing user journeys
I mapped user flows for common tasks like selecting a destination or searching tours. Incorporating faceted filters and search pathways ensured flexibility for different user preferences.
4. Wireframing
Core pages, including a review page and detailed tour pages, were wireframed to illustrate the structure. Features like breadcrumb navigation, filters, and call-to-action buttons ensured usability and accessibility.
5. User evaluation
Usability testing with potential users provided actionable feedback, leading to enhancements like adding rating filters and improving search box clarity.
This project highlighted the importance of information architecture in creating a seamless user experience. By breaking down complex information into logical structures, I learned how to balance user needs with business goals. The iterative process of research, design, and evaluation allowed me to refine my solutions and ensure usability at every step.
This experience also deepened my appreciation for the role of designing a useful information architecture for digital platforms in tackling real-world challenges. Designing with empathy and attention to detail, I saw firsthand how structured information and clear navigation empower users to achieve their goals effortlessly.
