We spend significant time and effort in the information architecture phase of projects, during which our principle goal is to create an effective sitemap. As with other steps in the process, we pitch an initial recommendation, solicit feedback, host discussions, make some changes, rinse and repeat. Also similar to other parts of the process, it is critical to establish metrics that define a particular final product as successful. With sitemaps, this has proven particularly important.

Data on the web is increasingly location-specific. Between the rapidly expanding mobile web and the new geolocation API in browsers, it's easier than ever to attach locations to users and the content they create.

It's less easy to display location data in a way that is usable. There are plenty of free mapping tools, but which to use?

Throughout our design process there are a number of tools & conventions we use to make it easier to get to the design concept. Here’s a simple template we use to create wireframes, a little faster.

As a new Senior Designer at Aten, our design process seems fairly similar to how I've done things in the past, with one clear exception: the attitude surrounding design revisions.