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While the vast majority of tree testing is done online using dedicated tree-testing software, we can also test on paper (the original medium) or by using quick-and-dirty (and free) methods.
Testing online with commercial tools
As tree testing has matured as a recognized IA technique, online tools have sprung up to meet demand. All of these tools offer advantages over doing a tree test manually, such as:
- Unmoderated testing
People only need a web browser to participate - anywhere and any time, without us having to be present. - Flexible testing options
As the test administrator, we can customize how the test is run. - Automated analysis
This is the big one. The software records the participants' actions, and automatically summarizes/visualizes the results.
Here's a list of the commercials tools we know of (listed alphabetically), with some basic information on each:
| Product | Owner | Starting at... | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steffen Schilb | Introduced in 2008, but discontinued in 2014. | ||
| Treejack | Optimal Workshop | $249/month or $139/study | Introduced in 2008 as a companion to the OptimalSort card-sorting tool. |
| UserZoom tree-testing module | UserZoom | $19,000/year | Aimed at larger enterprises, the UserZoom suite of tools includes tree testing. |
| Warning |
|---|
| Disclaimer: While most of our experience is with Treejack, this guide does not recommend a particular product, because the right product will depend on factors such as budget, compatibility with other tools we're already using, and the specific features needed. |
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