Running CRO Experiments
Hypothesis: We believe changing the CTA button from "Learn More" to "Get Free Demo"
for enterprise prospects will achieve 15% conversion lift because it's more specific
and action-oriented for decision-makers seeking tangible value.
Priority Score: Impact (8) × Confidence (7) × Ease (9) = 504/1000
Test Duration: 2 weeks minimum for 95% confidence with 5,000+ visitors per variant
1. Data Analysis & Research Phase
Progress:
- Analyze current funnel metrics (Google Analytics + heatmaps)
- Identify conversion bottlenecks and drop-off points
- Review user session recordings for friction points
- Gather qualitative feedback (surveys, sales team insights)
- Audit competitor landing pages for industry benchmarks
2. Hypothesis Generation
For each landing page redesign, create exactly 3 testable hypotheses using:
CRO-DESIGN Framework:
We believe changing [specific element]
for [target audience segment]
will achieve [quantified metric improvement]
because [behavioral/psychological rationale]
3. Test Prioritization
Score each hypothesis: Impact × Confidence × Ease (1-10 scale each)
- Impact: Potential conversion lift based on traffic volume to that element
- Confidence: Strength of supporting data/research
- Ease: Implementation complexity and resource requirements
Priority threshold: Score >300 gets tested first.
4. Statistical Planning
- Significance Level: 95% confidence minimum
- Sample Size: Calculate using baseline conversion rate + desired lift
- Test Duration: Run until significance achieved OR 4 weeks maximum
- Traffic Split: 50/50 for A/B tests, equal splits for multivariate
5. Test Implementation
Progress:
- Set up tracking pixels for micro-conversions
- Configure A/B testing tool (Optimizely/VWO)
- QA test variants across devices/browsers
- Document test parameters in CRO backlog
- Launch with 24-hour monitoring
6. Results Analysis & Implementation
Progress:
- Wait for statistical significance before calling results
- Analyze segment performance (traffic source, device, etc.)
- Document insights in CRO knowledge base
- Implement winning variant permanently
- Plan follow-up tests based on learnings
Example 1: Hero Section Test Input: B2B SaaS landing page with 2.3% conversion rate Hypothesis: "We believe changing the hero headline from 'Streamline Your Workflow' to 'Cut Project Delivery Time by 40%' for project managers will achieve 25% conversion lift because specific time savings resonate more than vague benefits." Output: 18% actual lift, 96% confidence after 2,200 visitors per variant
Example 2: Form Optimization Input: Lead gen form with 12% completion rate Hypothesis: "We believe reducing form fields from 8 to 4 for first-time visitors will achieve 30% completion lift because shorter forms reduce perceived friction for unknown brands." Output: 31% completion rate improvement, implemented as winner
Example 3: Social Proof Test
Input: Enterprise landing page lacking credibility signals
Hypothesis: "We believe adding customer logo bar above the fold for mid-market prospects will achieve 20% conversion lift because social proof reduces perceived risk for B2B buyers."
Output: 14% lift (not significant), but 28% lift for mid-market segment specifically
Hypothesis Quality
- Always include specific audience segment (not "users")
- Quantify expected improvement (not "increase conversions")
- Base rationale on behavioral psychology, not preferences
- Test one variable at a time unless using multivariate methodology
Multivariate Test Design
Use when testing 3+ elements simultaneously:
- Maximum 4 variables to avoid traffic dilution
- Calculate sample size for smallest expected effect
- Use fractional factorial design for complex interactions
- Document all combinations being tested
CRO Backlog Management
Sources for test ideas:
- Analytics: High-traffic, low-converting pages
- Heatmaps: Elements with low engagement
- User recordings: Friction points and confusion
- Sales feedback: Common objections and questions
- Competitor analysis: Industry best practices
Backlog format:
Priority Score | Hypothesis | Est. Impact | Resources | Status
504 | Hero CTA change | 15% lift | 2 dev days | Ready
480 | Form field reduction | 25% lift | 1 dev day | In Progress
290 | Testimonial placement | 8% lift | 4 hours | Backlog
- Stopping tests early when they show promising results (wait for significance)
- Testing multiple elements without proper multivariate methodology
- Ignoring segment analysis - overall results may hide segment wins
- Not calculating sample sizes before launching (leads to underpowered tests)
- Testing aesthetic preferences instead of conversion psychology
- Running tests during seasonal anomalies (holidays, industry events)
- Not documenting losing tests - failed hypotheses provide valuable insights
- Implementing winners without QA across all device/browser combinations
Sample Size Calculator
Required visitors per variant =
(Baseline conversion rate × (100 - Baseline rate) × 16) /
(Minimum detectable effect²)
Example: 3% baseline, want to detect 20% relative lift (0.6% absolute)
= (3 × 97 × 16) / (0.6²) = 12,907 visitors per variant