FAQs

New and experienced 'Mappers' often have questions about the Information Mapping method. Here are answers to a few frequently asked questions.

Information Mapping Description 
Q: What is Mapping?

A: Information Mapping provides writers with an approach for getting their message across in a way that meets their users' needs. This approach also provides users with ways of scanning, skipping, and retrieving information they need quickly and easily. Information Mapping is not a format; it is a way of thinking. The up-front analysis and organization of the information being presented make documents developed using Information Mapping very effective.

Chunking vs. Hierarchy
Q: What is the difference between "chunking" and "hierarchy of chunking and labeling"?

A: Chunking means grouping content into small manageable units. It involves making the information digestible either for memorization or comprehension.

Hierarchy of Chunking and Labeling means organizing an accessible structure for content chunks by grouping them into larger chunks and labeling them. Chunks without a hierarchy and label are difficult to find and understand. This principle calls for creating a structure to provide accessibility to the chunks. This structure gives users a chance to see the "bigger picture" but also access progressive layers of detail.

These two concepts are taught separately because they cannot be performed simultaneously.

Rationale for the Chunking Limit
Q: What is the rationale behind the Information Mapping chunking limit of 7+/- 2?

A: The chunking limit is a guideline, based on George A. Miller's 1956 research, for creating information that people can readily memorize. Documents do not have to be "memorized," but maintaining these chunking limits aids in a reader's ability to process information. When deciding how much information to present to your audience at one time, you must consider the audience, purpose, and content.

For example:
-If the audience is new, seeing the information for the first time, and the content is complex, then you need to put less information into the chunk (7 minus 2).
-If the audience is experienced in the content, the content is basic and is a refresher, then you may be able to put more information into the chunk (7 plus 2).

Handling resistance to Information Mapping
Q: A few people in my organization are resistant to Information Mapping. How can I convince them of the value of the Method?

A: The best way to convince people of the value of Information Mapping is to let them experience how much more quickly they can find and use information developed using the Method. Show them a short, well-Mapped before and after example of a typical document in your organization or one of Information Mapping's standard "Before and After" examples. You can also invite them to try the IMAP demo, which lets them see for themselves the positive impact that Information Mapping can have.

Presenting procedure information
Q: When do I use an "If/Then" sentence (or table) versus a "yes/no" question?

A: "If/Then" sentences or tables and "yes/no" questions are two ways to present a decision step in a procedure. A decision step is a point in a procedure when a person (or computer) has to make a decision about what to do next.

At the risk of stating the obvious, use a "yes/no" question when the answer to a question is a simple yes or no. Use an "If/Then" sentence or table when the decision to be made is more complex.