Envision

**Phase 1: Envision (20%)**
For the first phase of this project, we will re-think and re-imagine the possible activities and range of contexts for VA users. In doing so, we will examine the current VA site to understand its present role in providing a service for its users. Consider the following:
 * who is using the current system? (eg.current students, potential students faculty, parents, administrators)
 * what activities are these users doing? how important are these activities?
 * what other systems currently exist? ( Benchmark analysis)
 * what interactions and media are available? How are they beneficial? (eg.gallery scrolling, animations, etc).
 * in what new ways can the content be accessed/presented ?
 * what can be added/deleted to enhance the user experience?
 * how can the design be improved visually ?
 * how can the overall user experience be more enjoyable, informative and efficient? Consider from visual and interactive design perspective?

Process
This phase will require a process that will include:
 * a thorough examination of the current content, its users and contexts of use
 * a survey and analysis of similar systems (draw from benchmark analysis and beyond)
 * a decided scope that focuses on particular need/activity/user ( eg .Visual Arts Handbook)
 * an exploration of current technologies and design approaches for the desired user experience

Deliverables
For this phase, each team design and submit the following:


 * 1) Information Architecture - redistribution, organization of content; hierarchy and labeling*
 * 2) System Map - flow of the envisioned system in series of wireframe screens*
 * 3) Other analysis/presentation materials posted to the wiki - (not specific as determined by each group. eg photos, diagrams, interviews, etc.)


 * These works are to be printed 12"x18" layout.

Submit printed document, represent on wiki and deposit pdf file in David's dropbox. Remember that any work posted on the wiki as part of this phase needs to be well designed and presented

Past examples [|1] [|2]

Week 01 - Jan 5
in class at home
 * course introduction
 * discussion of wiki participation
 * presentation VA Project
 * Q+A with Bill Kirby, Director of the CCCA
 * assemble into teams, review and analyze VA website and content
 * current user experience; [|PACT analysis] - in class
 * scoping, ideate - what is an area of interest/need? What can we offer?
 * benchmarks - analysis
 * define scope; prepare 5 minute presentation - team
 * benchmark analysis - 2 per person

Week 02 - Jan 12
in class at home
 * present team scope/ideas
 * review benchmarks
 * flowcharting and mapping
 * scenario review
 * define needed functions
 * refine scope in system maps and flowcharts

Week 03 - Jan 19
in class at home
 * review and continue work on maps and flowcharts
 * complete benchmark analysis
 * finalize system maps and flowcharts

Week 04 - Jan 26
in class
 * **phase 1 Envision due**