IA structural engineering is a sub-discipline of information architecture in which practitioners are trained to systematically model and assess the integrity of a user interface’s structural design (also referred to as IA structure).

IA structural engineers ensure that user interfaces are designed for resilience to withstand stress and mitigate unintended outcomes (e.g., poor usability, information gaps/leakage, harm, expense, etc.) due to poor conceptual integrity. Consideration is given to the durability of UI components and the risk of component erosion that can impair performance over time and the ability to scale.

IA structural engineering requires a rigorous technical foundation for analyzing the density patterns and properties associated with human-derived concepts and how the stored state of interrelated concepts within a system enable targeted human-computer interactions and objectives for all participants with respect to desired financial outcomes.

IA engineers that specialize in diagnostics and financial impact analysis of IA structures are referred to as IA structural analysts. While IA analysts must understand IA engineering concepts, their primary function is to assess and measure IA structures already in use.

The models provided by an IA structural engineer (or information architect) are used by UI and UX designers, content specialists, developers, data modelers, and technical architects.

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