Abby Covert

Abby Covert is an information architect, author, and community organizer recognized for her contributions to the field of information architecture. With two decades of experience, Covert has focused on making information architecture and sensemaking skills accessible to a broad audience. After a long consulting career, she transitioned to independent publishing and community building, expanding her work as a writer, teacher, and organizer. Her consulting portfolio includes clients such as Etsy, Microsoft, Nike, Staples, Bank of America, Fidelity Investments, and the United States Postal Service.

Covert is known as the inventor of World Information Architecture Day, a global event designed to provide accessible, community-based information architecture education. The event is celebrated annually on six continents and has provided free education to thousands of participants worldwide. Covert has also served as president of the Information Architecture Institute, co-chair of the Information Architecture Summit, and executive producer of the I.D.E.A. Conference, further supporting the design and user experience communities.

As an author, Covert has written three books that serve as resources for practitioners and students. Her first book, "How to Make Sense of Any Mess," presents information architecture as a practical skill and has been translated into multiple languages. She also published a teacher's guide to support academic programs in interaction design, content strategy, and information architecture, and released an expanded hardcover edition to mark the book's tenth anniversary. Her second book, "Stuck? Diagrams Help," offers guidance on diagramming for professionals. "Timeless Sensemaking for Modern Sensemakers" addresses the challenges of sensemaking in real-world contexts. Covert is a founding faculty member of the School of Visual Arts Products of Design graduate program.

Covert established The Sensemakers Club to foster a global community of information architecture and sensemaking practitioners. The club produces educational content and facilitates connections through discussion groups and events, including the annual Makesensemess celebration. As chief sensemaker, Covert curates peer-led discussions on topics such as governance, change, facilitation, and ethics. Through her books, events, and community initiatives, Covert influences how professionals approach clarity, structure, and the practice of sensemaking across industries.