How to Use Optimizely

Getting started with Optimizely

In this guide, you'll learn how to set up your Optimizely account and create your first A/B test. By the end, you’ll be able to experiment with different web elements to optimise user engagement and improve your conversion rates.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to Optimizely's website.
2. Click on the "Get Started" button in the top right corner.
3. Fill in your details to create an account. You can use your email or sign up with Google.
4. Once signed in, you’ll be directed to the dashboard. Familiarise yourself with the interface.

Step 2: Your first A/B test

1. From the dashboard, click on "Create Experiment" or the "+" icon.
2. Select "A/B Test" from the available options.
3. Enter the name for your experiment and select the URL of the page you want to test.
4. Click "Create Variations" to set up your test. Here, you can modify elements such as text, images, or buttons.
5. Once your variations are set, click "Save Changes".
6. Click "Start Experiment" to launch your test. Optimizely will start collecting data immediately.

Step 3: Get better results

1. Use the "Targeting" options to specify which audience segments will see your test. This can help you gather more relevant data.
2. Set a clear objective for your experiment in the "Goals" section, like "Increase Click-Through Rate".
3. Monitor your experiment in real-time using the "Results" tab to see how each variation is performing.

Pro tip

Use the "Preview" feature before launching your test to ensure everything looks as expected. This saves time by catching errors early.

Common mistake to avoid

Many beginners forget to define clear goals for their experiments. Without specific objectives, it’s hard to measure success or make informed decisions based on the results. Always set measurable goals before starting your test.