This session will be a open format discussion among IAs. We, as information architects, stand at the crossroads of our profession as a whole. Down one road we see the looming fate of a fragmented industry struggling to stay alive among the politics and self importance need of the very individuals who give themselves the same title. At the end of this road is the fate of a entire profession defeating itself through the lack of clarity in its own message, a lack of value in its own offering, and through simply a lack of commitment by those within. Down the other road we see a unified community we active individuals helping others and a mutual respect for their fellow practitioners. We see a clear vision, a clear goal, and true value with a solid message. What path should we choose.

1. The Commoditization &
Fragmentation of the IA
Community
Nick Finck
April 9, 2010
IA Summit - Phoenix

2. WITH
ROBO
The Commoditization & TS
Fragmentation of the IA
Community
Nick Finck
April 9, 2010
IA Summit - Phoenix

3. Let’s do
a quick
survey

4. First, some
Ground Rules

5. It is not all
about you
illustration by Joe Altreio

6. No need to place
blame or be
defensive
illustration by Joe Altreio

7. Let’s not get into
a debate about
defining the
damn thing
illustration by Joe Altreio

8. We’re not
going to solve
everyone’s
problem
illustration by Joe Altreio

9. Now for the
Questions

10. Do you feel loved
as an IA?
illustration by Joe Altreio

11. What are your
challenges
as an IA?
illustration by Joe Altreio

12. What is the
future of IA?
illustration by Joe Altreio

13. How are we
doing so far?
illustration by Joe Altreio

14. Thank you!

15. Robot illustrations
by Joe Altreio!
JoeAlterio.com

16. nick@blueflavor.com
illustration by Joe Altreio