How to Use Comparison Mode for Heatmaps?
Comparison mode is a powerful feature in Heatmap that allows you to compare data from two different filters side by side. This tool provides valuable insights into how different user segments interact with your website. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to use this feature effectively.
Why Use Comparison Mode?
Comparison mode helps you:
- Analyze behavior differences between user segments
- Compare performance across different time periods
- Evaluate the impact of design changes or A/B tests
- Identify optimization opportunities based on user behavior patterns
How to Access and Use Comparison Mode:
1. Accessing Comparison Mode:
- Navigate to your heatmap area in the dashboard
- Select your first filter
- Click the "Compare" button (usually located near the filter options)
- Choose your second filter
- Click "Apply" to generate the comparison
2. Viewing Comparison Results:
- Two heatmaps will load side by side, each applying one of the selected filters
- The left heatmap represents your first filter, and the right represents the second
- You can interact with both heatmaps independently
3. Analyzing Specific Elements:
- Click on any element in either heatmap to open a data modal
- This modal will show a side-by-side comparison of that element's performance under both filters
- You'll see metrics such as clicks, conversions, and engagement for each filter
4. Using the Data Table in Comparison Mode:
- Open the Data Table view while in comparison mode
- Each element will have an expand arrow beneath it
- Click the arrow to reveal a detailed comparison of the element's performance under both filters
- This view provides a comprehensive breakdown of metrics for easy analysis
5. Exporting Comparison Data:
- Use the export function in the Data Table to download the comparative data
- This allows for offline analysis or inclusion in reports
Tips for Effective Use of Comparison Mode:
1. Compare similar time periods to identify seasonal trends or the impact of marketing campaigns
2. Use device type filters to understand how behavior differs between mobile and desktop users
3. Compare new vs. returning visitors to tailor your site for different user familiarity levels
4. Analyze before and after periods when making significant site changes to measure impact
5. Compare high-converting vs. low-converting segments to identify successful elements
Common Use Cases:
- A/B Testing: Compare two versions of a page to see which performs better
- Device Optimization: Analyze how mobile users interact with your site compared to desktop users
- Geographic Analysis: Compare user behavior across different countries or regions
- Time-Based Analysis: Evaluate how user behavior changes during different times of day or days of the week
Troubleshooting:
If you encounter any issues while using comparison mode:
- Ensure both filters have sufficient data for a meaningful comparison
- Check that the date ranges for both filters don't overlap if you're comparing different periods
- Clear your browser cache or try a different browser if the comparison doesn't load properly
By leveraging comparison mode, you can gain deeper insights into your website's performance and make data-driven decisions to improve user experience and conversion rates. If you need further assistance with using comparison mode, don't hesitate to contact our support team.