[Sigia-l] Findability is dead, Long live ummm... Meaning?

[Jim Kauffman]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: sigia-l-admin at asis.org [mailto:sigia-l-admin at asis.org]On Behalf Of
> Jesse James Garrett
> Sent: Friday, March 28, 2003 1:20 AM
> To: 'SIGIA'
> Subject: Re: [Sigia-l] Findability is dead, Long live ummm... Meaning?
>
>
> Well, I sure am glad to see this topic get some traction -- as both
> Peters know, and as I mentioned in the "first principles" thread not too
> long ago, the notion of IA as facilitation of understanding has been on
> my mind for more than a year now.

I disagree here. Teachers facilitate understanding. We don't have that kind
of intimate human relationship with our users.

 > Just because it's squishy doesn't necessarily mean it's difficult. Many,
> many creative professionals deal with squishy and vague every day and
> produce successful work. Squishy might seem difficult, though, if one
> tries to handle it as if it's not squishy.
>
> We are artisans, too often trying to get by with the methods of engineers.

I agree totally. Ted Nelson always wanted to use IA (before it acquired that
moniker) to inspire active, excited browsing down unexpected pathways. It's
not that hard to design a highly browseable environment that mimics the
"serendipity" experience of spending a day in the library. The art is in
providing a rich environment where excitement and passionate curiosity can
catch fire.

-Jim K.