review · Feedback · 60–120 min · 2-5 people · medium energy

Side-by-Side Comparison (Efficiency Testing)

Side-by-Side Comparison is a method to demonstrate the efficiency of a new system or process by directly comparing it to an existing one. By measuring key metrics in parallel, teams can visually showcase improvements and gain stakeholder buy-in.

When to use Side-by-Side Comparison (Efficiency Testing)

Use this method when you need to prove the value of a new solution or process by showing concrete improvements over the existing one. It's particularly effective for demonstrating efficiency gains.

What it solves

Skepticism about the benefits of a new system, difficulty quantifying improvements, lack of stakeholder buy-in.

How to run Side-by-Side Comparison (Efficiency Testing), step by step

  1. Identify specific tasks or processes to compare between the old and new systems. (15 minutes)
  2. Define key metrics to measure efficiency, such as time taken, number of steps, or error rate. (15 minutes)
  3. Perform the tasks in both systems, recording the time and other metrics for each. (30-60 minutes)
  4. Analyze the data and calculate the percentage improvement in efficiency. (15 minutes)
  5. Create a visual representation of the results, such as a video or chart, to clearly demonstrate the improvements. (15 minutes)

Materials needed

  • Old system
  • New system
  • Timer
  • Recording device (camera or screen recorder)
  • Spreadsheet or data analysis tool

Facilitator tips

  • Choose tasks that are representative of common user workflows.
  • Ensure that the testing environment is consistent for both systems.
  • Focus on metrics that are meaningful to stakeholders.

Common pitfalls

  • Comparing systems under different conditions.
  • Failing to control for external factors that could affect the results.
  • Presenting the results in a way that is difficult to understand.

Variations

  • Involve users in the testing process to get their feedback.
  • Use A/B testing to compare different versions of a system.

Running it online or hybrid

Record the comparison remotely using screen sharing and video conferencing.

What it produces

A recorded video or documented report showcasing the side-by-side comparison results.

Origin

Inspired by Unboxed's work — source

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