Information architecture: Tree Testing

Discovery / ExplorationqualitativeBásico

TL;DR

Evaluate if users can find information in an already defined structure (such as a menu or map).

Detailed description

Tree Testing is a quantitative methodology that evaluates the effectiveness of information structures through search tasks in a hierarchical textual representation, without the influence of visual design or navigation elements. This technique helps validate whether users can find information through the proposed hierarchy, identifying confusing labels, misplaced categories, or structural issues before visual design investment (Nielsen Norman Group). It is fundamental for validating information architecture and menu structures early in the design process.

Main objective

Evaluate navigability and effectiveness of an information structure without visual design.

Use cases

WebApps móvilesAplicaciones de escritorio

When to use it

Information architecture phase, after card sorting.

Effort level

Medium

Recommended number of users

15–20 participantes

Advantages

✓Indica efectividad de estructuras existentes
✓Puede combinarse con analítica

Disadvantages

✗Requiere tener una estructura definida
✗No explora nuevos esquemas

When to use

•Antes de implementar una navegación
•Cuando se quiere reducir errores de búsqueda

Metrics

Tasa de éxito en navegación (%)
Número de errores de búsqueda
Tiempo promedio para encontrar información
Tasa de rutas óptimas

Practical example

Validar un menú de admisiones universitarias pidiendo encontrar requisitos de matrícula.