Information Mapping FAQ

This section is a quick reference area for Mappers that may help them to keep improving the way they implement the method.

What is Mapping?

Q: What is Mapping?
A: Mapping is a communication tool that provides writers with an approach to 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. Mapping is not a format; it is a way of thinking. It is the up front analysis and organization of the information being presented that make Mapped documents so effective.

Chunking vs. Hierarchy principles

Q: Why does Information Mapping treat the chunking principle and hierarchy of chunking and labeling principle as separate principles? What are the nuances that differentiate what they are and how we use them?
A: Chunking - is grouping content into small manageable units. It involves making the information digestible either for memorization or comprehension.
Hierarchy of Chunking and Labeling - is 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.

Chunking limit rationale

Q: Why do we say that the Chunking Limit is 7+/- 2 instead of less than 9?
A: The chunking limit is a guideline, based on George A. Miller's 1956 research, for creating information that people have to 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 need to put more information into one chunk. (7 plus 2.)
  Handling resistance to Mapping

Q: A few people in my organization are resistant to Mapping. How can I handle convincing them of the value of Mapping?
A: The best way to convince people of the value of Mapping is to let them experience how much more quickly they can find and use Mapped information. Show them a short, well-Mapped before and after example of a typical document in your organization, or show them one of Information Mapping's standard "Before and After" examples.
You can also invite them to try the " Show me " example on the Information Mapping Web site, which lets them see for themselves the positive impact that Mapping can have on your organization.

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.