Card sorting aims to understand users expectations around navigational concepts. Participants are asked to group a selection of “cards” into categories that they feel have most meaning. Groups can be named by the participant (open sort) or by the facilitator (closed sort).
Card sorting can be achieved using online tools or in-person simply using paper and pens. The research outputs can be used in tandem with other research techniques and may also be iterated several times with different groups of participants.
EXAMPLE:
In combination with usability studies and competitor research, online and offline card sorts facilitated research into Betfair’s global navigation.
Over 50 responses were received via an online sort. 10 live (offline) card sorts were carried out to provide context to the data. Offline sorts allow users to think out loud; explaining their thoughts, opinions and rationale.