You should do tree testing early in the design process. |
In the initial research phase, an open card sort and a benchmark tree test of the existing site will give you ideas for what needs changing in your site tree. |
In the design phase, you should “go wide” by creating several alternative site trees incorporating the ideas from your research. |
Online testing tools are cheap and fast, allowing you to run several quick rounds of tests, winnowing and refining your ideas down to a single high-performing structure. |
For evaluating site structures early in the design process, tree testing is more effective than closed card sorts. |
Next: Chapter 4 - Planning a tree test