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| Criterion | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() UX Research Empathy Mapping | ![]() UX Research Tree Testing | ![]() UX Research First-click Testing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. | When a navigation exists but search paths still fail, tree testing checks findability without visual distraction. The method shows whether labels, levels, and paths really lead to the intended destination. | When users immediately turn the wrong way on a screen or wireframe, first click testing checks initial orientation at high speed. The first click shows early whether expectation, labeling, and wayfinding fit together. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 30–60 min | 1-2 Tage | 1-2 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 4-8 | Based on research question | 10-30 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps | Findability Metrics, Path Analysis, Revised IA | Click Heatmap, Success Rate, Design Recommendations |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop | Information architectureNavigationFindability | UXNavigationFindabilityValidation |



