An Information Architect (IA) meets with the client to help define a project's scope, as well as plot the path to meet the objective and work with user interface designers and technologists to develop engaging and intuitive visual interfaces.

Information Architects also works closely with visual designers, helping to maintain the balance between form and function. Design effects architecture as much as architecture effects design.

On most projects the Information Architect essentially becomes the nucleolus of the design and development team as they have, through their numerous roles throughout the project, acquired the global understanding of how all components of the project fit together to meet the project's goals and objectives.

A vast majority of web resources are developed by people with limited knowledge of information architecture. You don't need a staff of professional web designers to create an effective information environment. Instead, you simply need an understanding of your website goals, the technical resources available, the content, and the needs of your audience.

Like architects of a house, information architects must be aware of their client's needs.