Information Architect/Usability Engineer

Job Title:   Information Architect/Usability Engineer



 

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The Information Architect/Usability Engineer is responsible for the user experience as well as the layout and taxonomy of information on The Teaching Companies ecommerce Web sites. Your extensive knowledge of current usability research, theories and methodologies coupled with your knowledge of best practices in ecommerce will be a primary driver during the redesign/enhancement of our websites.


 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following (other duties may be assigned).

· Plan and execute usability studies, competitive reviews and gap analysis, focus groups, heuristic reviews, usability tests and surveys

· Analyze web analytics, user paths, user feedback/surveys, and usability test results to create and refine user interface requirements that represent strategic site features and improvements.

· Translate business requirements and user needs into effective and intuitive user interfaces that meet business and user needs

· Develop representations that communicate the layout, flow and organization of the proposed redesign/enhancements for the web sites clearly (e.g. conceptual diagrams, site maps, interaction models, wireframes, detailed process flows and specifications).

· Create, implement and enforce the style guide and information architecture for the websites

· Establish and maintain industry best practices


 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES  None 


QUALIFICATIONS

· Strong knowledge of usability methodologies/tools including user profiles, user scenarios, navigation flow charts, organizational models, storyboards, wireframes, mockups, feature lists, functional requirements and user interface specifications

· In-depth knowledge of user experience disciplines: human-computer interaction, usability, user centric design processes and data analysis

· Experience in conducting usability studies, polls/surveys and translating the findings into actionable recommendations.

· Thorough understanding of Web technologies, including but not limited to HTML, Javascript, ASP.net and content management systems.

·  Strong knowledge of IA tools, including but not limited to MS Visio, MS Project or equivalent applications

· In-depth knowledge of the latest research, analysis and best practices regarding online shopping behavior and website usability

 
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

· BA/BS required. Advanced degree in interface design, information design, interaction design, design planning, or human centered design preferred.  

· 6+ years of industry experience as information architect, usability engineer, interaction designer, experience designer or similar role

· 4+ years direct experience with ecommerce sites