A student founder has launched EPIC, a new browser-based platform that attempts to bridge the gap between graphic design and information architecture. As detailed in a recent Hacker News post, the tool combines standard design capabilities, like creating posters and logos, with a specialized visual sitemap generator intended to fix website navigation issues before coding even begins.
While the market is flooded with design tools like Canva or Figma, EPIC distinguishes itself by focusing on structure rather than just aesthetics. The creator notes that the platform includes an optional AI mode and manual editing features, but the primary focus of this launch is the integrated navigation tool designed to help developers and designers map out site hierarchies instantly.
Key Capabilities
EPIC aims to solve the common problem where small web projects spiral into messy, unstructured collections of pages. The tool offers several specific features to combat this:
- Visual Structure Mapping: Users can map their entire website structure visually to understand the relationship between pages.
- Hierarchy Visualization: The tool provides an instant view of the site’s hierarchy, making it easier to spot logic errors.
- Dead-End Identification: It automatically helps users identify pages that lead nowhere, which is a common killer for user retention.
- Flow Optimization: Designers can fix navigation flows and export the architecture before moving to the build phase.
Why Information Architecture Matters
This launch highlights a specific pain point in the web development workflow: the disconnect between visual design and information architecture (IA). Typically, teams might use whiteboard tools like Miro or Lucidchart to map flow, and then switch to separate design software for the visuals. By integrating a sitemap maker directly into a design tool, EPIC attempts to keep the structure front-and-center during the creative process.
The founder emphasizes that poor architecture leads to dropped conversions. When navigation grows randomly, a frequent issue in rapidly scaling startups or student projects, users get lost. This tool attempts to enforce discipline on that process early on.
Traction and Availability
The project is currently in an early stage. According to the developer, the tool has seen over 100 organic daily visitors and signups shortly after its appearance on Hacker News, with average session times exceeding two minutes. Users are reportedly spending the bulk of their time specifically on the navigation tool rather than the general design editor.
It is currently a browser-based tool accessible via the web. As this is a student-led “Show HN” project, the pricing model appears to be open for early access, though the founder notes that they are still actively improving user experience (UX) and performance based on feedback.
Limitations
As with many early-stage tools, there are caveats. The creator candidly admits that the UX and performance are still works in progress. The tool is competing in a crowded space against established giants, so its success will likely depend on how well it solves the specific niche problem of sitemap visualization compared to general-purpose whiteboarding tools.
For those interested in testing the structural integrity of their web projects, EPIC is available now for feedback and testing.