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| Criterion |  UX Research Card Sorting |  UX Research Tree Testing |  Operations ABC Analysis |  Operations ALPEN Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | When content only makes sense internally and users can't find the structure again, card sorting exposes their mental order. Terms, groups, and naming are then aligned with the target group's expectations. | 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. | With many similar objects of differing economic significance, the method prioritizes effort by effect. It separates what needs regular steering from what rarely needs attention. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 20-45 min | 1-2 Tage | 30-60 min | 10-20 min daily |
Participantsdifferent | Based on research question | Based on research question | 1-5 | 1 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Async | Async | Async |
Outputdifferent | Content groups, Label set, IA hypotheses | Findability Metrics, Path Analysis, Revised IA | ABC Classification, Focus Rules, Control List | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes |
Tagsno overlap | Information architectureNavigationStructure | Information architectureNavigationFindability | PrioritizationOperationsPortfolio | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations |