When developing the user interface (UI) for the project “Let’s Talk” it was vital to first outline the steps a user must take to get from point A to point B when using the application. In order to create a successful and user friendly interface it was important to first develop a sitemap for the project. A sitemap is a representation of the applications pages, created to help users navigate the application. It is a hierarchy of the pages organised that will allow for the clarification of the content that needs to be created for the application, while also allowing for the elimination of any unnecessary or duplicated pages before the development phase of the application. “Most sitemaps are arranged as a flowchart. Like laying a foundation for a house, a sitemap gives your team a base to build on. It lets the team decide how best to organize the sections and individual pages of the website.” (Kathy, 2019)

It was important to develop a sitemap for the application before the development and design phase as it helped clarify the application’s aim. Outlining the content and hierarchy of pages was beneficial in ensuring that all aspects of the application supported the aim of the application, to educate children safely on puberty and sexual education. It was also beneficial in eliminating any content that was not reinforcing the applications aim. In the development of the sitemaps duplication of content became apparent, which was leading to conflicting information being portrayed. Pages and content were either combined or adapted in order to create a more successful navigation. “Take this opportunity to eliminate any clutter that might confuse or distract your customers. Clearly identifying your website’s purpose will lead to a more effective site.” (Kathy, 2019).  Once the initial sitemaps were developed the next step was to create user flow diagrams in order to gauge how a user may use the site in order to eliminate any unnecessary steps that were excessive ot may lead to confusion. Developing the sitemaps for “Let’s Talk” were also beneficial in order to allow all team members to be on the same page in relation to both content creation and development of the application. In order to develop a successful UI the creation of a sitemap was necessary as it allowed for a clear and direct approach to developing the application “Let’s Talk”.

References

Kathy (2019), Why Create Sitemaps and Wireframes Before the Visual Design?, viewed 08/04/2019 via

< https://www.windmilldesign.com/sitemaps-wireframes >