Tree Testing
Tree testing is a design research technique used to evaluate the effectiveness of website or application navigation structures. It involves presenting users with a textual outline of the site’s content, called a tree diagram, and asking them to locate specific items or complete tasks by selecting the appropriate branches and nodes.
During a tree testing session, users are typically given a specific task or scenario, such as “find the contact information for customer support.” They are then asked to navigate the tree diagram to find the information they need, without the assistance of the actual website or application interface.
By analyzing the results of the tree testing session, designers can identify areas where the navigation structure is confusing, unclear, or difficult to use. They can also identify patterns in how users navigate the tree, which can help inform design decisions related to labeling, organization, and hierarchy.
Tree testing can be done in-person, online, or via remote testing tools. It is a cost-effective and efficient way to evaluate and improve website or application navigation, and can help ensure that users can find the information they need quickly and easily.
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