Information Architect to model site architecture for The National Archives website

Tender description

Summary of the work An experienced Information Architect to design and implement a user-centred content structure and navigation as we re-imagine The National Archives on the web, involving in-depth stakeholder management across the organisation. Specialist role User researcher Expected Contract Length Approx. 3 months – to 31/3/2022 (with the possibility of extension, up to 9 months in total) Latest start date Monday 10 January 2022 Maximum Day Rate £600 Early Market Engagement The National Archives is undergoing a significant digital transformation and we are looking for an experienced Information Architect to design and implement a user-centred content structure and navigation as we re-imagine The National Archives on the web. We have completed preliminary work in this area so you would not be starting from scratch. You will help organise, design and build the layout, mapping user journeys/flows and user-interfaces using a device agnostic approach. You will also be involved in user testing prototypes and iterating based on data, evidence and feedback. Using a combination of wireframes, user flows, scenarios, site maps and prototypes you will be adept at communicating concepts and designs to colleagues and stakeholders. Who Speclialist Work With The Information Architect will work with a Product Manager, Delivery Manager, as well as our UX Manager, Designers and Lead Front-end Developer. They will also be expected to work alongside colleagues and multidisciplinary teams from the Digital Services department and engage with stakeholders across The National Archives, including other digital teams, marketing, education, events & exhibitions, collection care, information management, archives sector, research and collection expertise and engagement. What Specialists Work On Collaborating with stakeholders from across the organisation; UX, metrics, content and design experts; you will model a flexible, future-proof site architecture that can turn thousands of web pages, applications and media into a user focused, intuitive and logical system for our diverse range of audiences. We’re looking for a confident, persuasive individual experienced at stakeholder management at all levels (including executive) to convey reasoning behind choices and the user needs behind design decisions. Skills & Experience • Experience in designing user-centred navigation for complex interfaces, large-scale websites and applications • Understanding of user experience, interface design, accessibility, assisted digital and inclusion • Understanding of web development processes and GDS service standard principles • Knowledge of content modelling and structured content • Strong visualisation skills with the ability to clearly communicate ideas and concepts. Nice to Haves • Awareness and application of current trends and new technologies in information architecture and design • A working knowledge of WordPress, Wagtail or other enterprise level CMS • Experience of working in an Agile way, with multidisciplinary teams • Knowledge of GDS Service Assessments and the Technology Code of Practice. Work Location Mainly working remotely, but for information our address is Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU. Working Arrangments Remote working will be the main arrangement for this project. Some work may be conducted at The National Archives, Bessant Drive, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU, but only when it is appropriate and safe to do so. Security Clearance Baseline check (blue) security clearance will be required. No. of Specialists to Evaluate 4 Cultural Fit Criteria • Collaborative, with a willingness to be embedded in a team within our organisation. • Share knowledge and experience with other team members, including documenting processes and creating handover documentation. • Be transparent and collaborative when making decisions. • Have a no-blame culture and encourage people to learn from their mistakes. • Take ownership and responsibility for their work. • Excellent communication, willingness to adopt and contribute to TNA’s digital ways of working. Assessment Method • Reference • Interview • Presentation Evaluation Weighting Technical competence 60% Cultural fit 20% Price 20% Questions from Suppliers 1. Is there any incumbent? No. 2. Is this inside or outside IR35? We have checked the role requirements (to the best of our knowledge) using the assessment tool found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-employment-status-for-tax and the determination for the role(s) as advertised is that the intermediaries legislation does not apply to this engagement (outside IR35). 3. Please can you provide a breakdown of timeline, for example, feedback, interview, start date? Our anticipated timetable is as follows:Scoring of all responses to produce shortlist for interview by end of day on 5 Jan 2022.Presentations and interviews on 10th /11th Jan 2022.Award decision by end of day on 11th Jan 2022.Feedback will be provided as appropriate at each stage. 4. Stated (+ standard) evidence structure is to only provide one example for each nice-to-have requirement (unless the buyer specifies otherwise).In this case, and in order to show depth of public sector experience, are you happy for us to provide a list of similar clients and then deep-dive into one in more detail? Yes, your approach is fine. We are aware of the guidance given to suppliers to provide one example only, so you would not lose marks for doing so. The 'deep-dive' (within the word count) is perhaps of greater importance in your answer than a list of clients.