[Sigia-l] The Value of an IA discussion - from a newbie's perspective

[Listera]

Kathleen Tucker:

> It seems employers want candidates who can be web designers, IA's, programmers
> and tech writers all in one position.

Christopher meet Kathleen. :-)

> I'm in the New York City area and think that $30/hr for a junior level IA is
> not that bad. 

Does this (among other bits) sound like job reqs for a junior IA?

"He or she LEADS the development of the user experience and provides
usability and interaction design INSIGHTS across a variety of HIGH-PROFILE
engagements."

> There doesn't seem to be any mentoring of newbies going on.

This continues to be a shameful state of how things are.

> It seems many companies want only senior level people.

At $30/hr. :-)

To the extent that an IA is in a position to shape the architecture/UI/UX of
a product strategically, seniority, expressed in experience and skillsets,
is indeed mandatory.

> My portfolio to some may be quite basic and plain. To others it may be the
> best work that they have seen.

That's unavoidable.

> Are you saying a career as an IA isn't viable or possible anymore?

Perhaps if you are primarily interested in titles, deliverables and
specialization. IA has been and will continue to be a fundamental aspect of
Design, the title may not.

----
Ziya

Design is doing for a dime what anyone can do for a dollar.