If there were a template or system for what information architects need to prepare, no one would need them. While there are certain key deliverables that most projects require, the work is most often determined on a case-by-case basis dependent on scope and function. Presentation is as much about showing information as it is about showing information in a way that is understandable to each client's specific Web knowledge and thought process. Some people prefer paper, while others need to see things clicking and moving in order to make sense of it.

Site Maps: Maps reflect navigation and main content buckets. They are usually constructed to look like flowcharts and show how users navigate from one section to another.

Content Maps: Detailed maps that show what exists on each page and how content on some pages interacts with content on other pages.

Page Schematics: Black and white line drawings or block diagrams to hand off to a visual designer. These may, or may not, reflect layout and are used mostly to inform the designer and the client exactly what information, links, content, promotional space, and navigation will be on every page of the site. Schematics also help illustrate priority.

Text-Based Outlines: Sometimes information architects want to show architecture as indented text outlines and lists.

Interactive, Semi-Functional Prototyping: In some cases, information architects are responsible for outlining or storyboarding functional prototypes, and in others they actually build prototypes with HTML, Flash, Director, or PowerPoint.

Anyone who has seen the effects of unplanned projects--Web or otherwise--knows why it is important to have a plan before starting to build. Some clients don't understand the expense--and professional information architects are expensive. Also, due to the complex nature of information architects' work--representing sites with thousands of pages on 11-by-17 pieces of paper and presentation boards, director prototypes, and HTML schematics, for example--clients are sometimes confused and unable to see the value. It's important for any company that builds information architecture into its structure to support that structure by educating clients on its value. It's the responsibility of everyone on the team to help the client understand why every member is there.