Brian Hoffman — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:50:29 GMT

I’ve used a similar technique in the past and also called it tree testing. Since I wasn’t aware of any software tool for it, I created the tree using a set of Windows nested folders. It was easy to create, cost nothing, and was an interface users were familiar with and found easy to navigate. The only downside was that it took more effort to analyze the data than your tool would. However, I approached it as more of a qualitative method than quantitative, so I didn’t test large numbers of users at once and did it iteratively. Given the choice between what I did and your tool, I’ll probably use your tool next time. But if anyone is on a limited budget, they may find the folder method an acceptable substitute.

Boxes and Arrows: Comments by Brian Hoffman