Card sorting

What it is: Card sorting is a user-centred design methodology used to inform the design of an information structure.

It is a reliable method for finding patterns in how users would expect to find, navigate to, group and label content. Analysing these patterns can provide valuable insights in user’s mental models, that is, their thought process for how something works in the real world.

Card sorting involves users ‘sorting’ cards into groups that make the most sense to them. There are two different types: an open or close card sort. Open card sorts are used to help identity new information structures and closed card sorts are used to verify existing information structures.

Foviance can undertake card sorts with users using physical or using online interactive card sorting software.

When to use: Card sorting can be used throughout the design cycle.

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