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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:


ProductOwnerStarting at...Free trialSummary
C-InspectorSteffen Schilb$99/studyIntroduced in 2008, discontinued in 2014.
Proven By Users tree testingProven By Users LLC
$49.95$50/month
  • 3 responses per study
This suite has recently added a tree-testing tool.
TreejackOptimal Workshop$249$180/month
or $139/study
  • 1 live study at a time
  • 10 responses per study
  • 2 tasks
Introduced in 2008 as a companion to the OptimalSort card-sorting tool.
Userlytics tree - testingUserlytics

$49/participant

  • no details on site
A recent entrant in tree-testing tools.
UserZoom tree - testingUserZoom$19,000/year$500/month
  • 10 recordings
  • 2 reports
  • 4 researchers/collaborators
Aimed at larger enterprises, the UserZoom suite of tools includes tree testing.
UXArmy tree testingUXArmy$99/month
  • unlimited studies
  • 7 days
A recent entrant in tree-testing tools.
 

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