Google Optimize vs. Webtrends Optimize

Google Optimize is well suited for testing small changes on the browser pages. You have the option of changing designs, texts, and some small features on the page. The audience can be divided using a long list of factors, so it makes it quite easy to set up the test. It is not well suited for complicated feature tests where you need to monitor the user over a long period or where the user is likely to use multiple sessions across multiple devices or browsers

Incentivized

There are certainly a few things to consider. If you're looking to run A/B/n or Multivariate tests with some basic segmentation or targeting then Webtrends Optimize is capable of providing that. If budget is a major consideration then that is another area where Optimize may be more attractive. However, based on both of these criteria it is my opinion that there are other tools out there that provide more value. For segmentation discovery, identification of user affinities, and execution of an effective targeting and personalization strategy then there are certainly other tools that should be considered.

• Easy test implementation. You're up and running once you've pinned down your hypothesis.
• Goals and conversion points can be easily mapped to any test.
• Customization of goals in case you don't have one setup.
• Integrated with Google Analytics so you can correlate with other metrics under behavior and e-commerce data.

Incentivized

• The Webtrends team are excellent at taking the time to understand and learn about our distinct business needs, and recommend suggestions in response.
• The Webtrends platform has undergone several changes over the time I was using it. This illustrates the constant thrive to improve their service to users, something I greatly appreciated.
• Webtrends Optimize enables the whole process to be simple with its handy instructional guides that can inform clients about using the service.

• Track site performance with each test version; see if the resource timing of each test has anything to do with conversion rates.

Incentivized

• The cost is a factor. When you're trying to save money, particularly as a startup (a lot of our clients are up-and-comers) it has to be seen as an investment...but the cost to implement the system is fairly large.
• There's a bit of a steep learning curve, you can't just dive into the program.
• It's not impossible but it's not as easy as snapping your fingers to easily implement the program cross-platform.

Incentivized

Difficulty was getting business units to take the time and spend the money to test, and then implement, best options.

Google has always been known to make easy-to-use products. The Google Optimize interface is intuitive and easy to follow for anyone.

Incentivized

Set up of basic tests that do not use segmentation or targeting is an intuitive experience that can be learned quickly by new users. However, as the need for segmentation and other more advanced capabilities arise, the experience begins to degrade.

zero complaints. I'm not aware of it ever failing.

Zero complaints. It seemed to do its job quickly and accurately.

Google has well-documented resources and unlimited use cases that can be found online. Plus, their support is always helpful and available.

Incentivized

The support from the team at Webtrends Optimize is unparalleled. There is always someone to consult should there be any issues.

Online training was ok. Because every test is a custom test, there's only so much that can be covered in a generic lesson.

Implementation was pretty straightforward

We switched from Google Optimize to AB Tasty which is a paid platform. AB Tasty provides much better capabilities and support, although this is with a cost implication which Google Optimize didn’t have. Google Optimize was useful as an introductory platform prior to getting a full programme running but this has now sunset so is no longer available.

Incentivized

Webtrends Optimize is one of the best solutions out there for digital marketers to improve their sales by providing a better experience for their customers' journey. With that said, it is also a costly solution in comparison to other services in the market today. The adage of you gets what you pay for is true as they are a market leader in the optimization space.

Incentivized

• Useful with clients on a budget who need to see ROI without another paid platform to install.
• Setting up Google Optimize helps as an additional value add when bidding on projects.
• Nothing negative unless a larger client needs a more robust package; then, there is always Google Optimize 360 as well as platforms from other vendors.

Incentivized

• So far we haven't seen an ROI that we can accurately measure due to only running a couple of tests that haven't resulted in direct, site wide changes. However, we have learnt a lot about how to set up the right processes and documentation.