Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

The rapid evolution of Information Architecture Design has transformed the way organizations design, deploy, and manage mobile banking applications. As institutions seek to modernize legacy processes, Information Architecture Design offers new opportunities to improve service delivery, reduce manual overhead, and respond more effectively to user needs.

Despite this potential, many existing mobile banking applications were not originally designed with information architecture design in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in perceived usability that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Information Architecture Design can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to perceived usability within mobile banking applications remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of information architecture design despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around information architecture design.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a information architecture design-based approach to improving perceived usability in mobile banking applications.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Information Architecture Design in enhancing perceived usability within mobile banking applications.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying information architecture design in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can information architecture design be applied to improve perceived usability in mobile banking applications?
2. How effective is Information Architecture Design at enhancing perceived usability within mobile banking applications?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying information architecture design in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its immediate technical contribution, this study offers value to organizations evaluating whether to invest in information architecture design for their own mobile banking applications, and contributes to the broader literature on applied UI/UX design by documenting a concrete implementation and evaluation case.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of a information architecture design-based approach to improving perceived usability within mobile banking applications. Reflecting its MSc-level scope, it does not extend to a full commercial rollout or long-term post-implementation review beyond the study period.