This module has focused on the first stage of signs and metaphors, in which your team determines the needs of the client and the end users. But user groups play an ongoing role in creating and validating signs and metaphors. In preparation for the next modules, take a look at the role end users play throughout the process of developing effective signs and metaphors.

End users are the different populations of users for a Web site.
In the Definition and Discovery phases, your audience analysis will target representatives of user groups. End users are a critical resource in the creation, validation, and testing of signs and metaphors throughout the Design and Development processes. There are two key groups of end users you should be consulting during the creation of signs and metaphors.

Consumers and external customers are often the focus of the Internet portion of a commercial Web site. Their needs should influence the design of signs and metaphors on this portion of the site.

Internal customers and partners are usually the focus of the intranet and extranet portions of a company site. Their needs should influence the design of signs and metaphors on these portions of the site. The next lesson is the module conclusion.

Click the Quiz link below test your knowledge of the planning steps and strategies for signs and metaphors.
Planning Strategies - Quiz