While the vast majority of tree testing is done online using dedicated tree-testing software, you can also test on paper (the original medium) or by using alternative (usually 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 some basic advantages over doing a tree test manually, such as providing:

Unmoderated testing
People only need a web browser to participate - anywhere and any time.
Flexible testing options
As the test administrator, you can customize how the test is run.
Automated analysis
The software records the participants' actions, and helps you analyze the results.

Here's a list of the current commercials tools we know of, with some basic information on each.

finish table

Disclaimer: While most of our experience is with Treejack, we don't recommend a particular product in this guide, because the right product for you will depend on factors such as price, compatibility with other tools you're already using, and specific features you're looking for.

Testing with paper cards

summary of paper testing, links to other paper content in this guide

Other tools

folder clicking, Dreamweaver site maps, etc. - see B&A article comments, archived emails, etc.

Next: Where will you test?