Using an Architectural Metaphor for Information Design in Hypertext

This paper uses Frank Lloyd Wright's (1867-1959) organic architecture as a metaphor to define the relationship between a part and the whole, whether the focus is on a building and its surroundings or information delivered via hypertext. It reviews and discusses effective strategies for designing text information via hypertext and incorporates three levels of information design: the foundation, the room, and the roof level. In the foundation level, the nature of hypertext and issues concerning the use of hypertext as an appropriate information delivery technology are presented. In the room level, specifics on effective typography and content design that enhance information processing and comprehension are reviewed. In the roof level, the learner's experience performing a task and his or her identified information needs are discussed. Finally, recommendations for future research are provided.