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An Introduction to Preference Testing

What is Preference Testing?

Preference Testing is an easy user experience research method for determining design preference.

Preference test involves asking a research participant a question about which image they would prefer and showing them 2 images. The time it takes to choose along with the image selected is recorded for analysis.

Preference testing can be used to determine preference on visual designs, copy, logos, color palettes, wireframes, fashion designs, or whatever else you want to test! This quantitative approach to understanding your product or website provides the specific feedback you need to improve.

In addition to the quantitative nature of the preference tests, they are often paired with a survey to understand why the users chose what they did. Also, demographic questions can be asked to understand if different user groups have different preferences.

Is this the same as an A/B test?

In concept, an A/B test and a preference test are very similar. The difference is that A/B path testing usually refers to a test that is happening in a live website - or something that is already built. However a preference test is done before a product is released in a controlled testing environment.

Results from a Preference Test in Proven by Users

Why do a preference test?

A preference test is a simple way to get feedback from real users on a part of your design. You may need feedback on colors, logos, design, layout, copy or many other facets of your user experience.

A key benefit of running a preference test is the ability to gather feedback early in your product's life cycle. This early feedback not only describes what they prefer, but why they prefer it and can help guide your next design iteration. By running multiple preference tests, you can iteratively refine your product to be the best it can be.

Types of preference

Preference testing isn't always around how something looks. By stacking multiple preference tests within a research test, you can ask different questions about the same design. For Example:

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Next Steps