UserTesting Buys UX Specialist UserMuse

In the US, customer insights platform UserTesting has acquired market research and user experience (UX) test panel provider UserMuse. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Based in Alexandria, VA, UserMuse helps B2B software companies and UX agencies recruit testers - either for a panel for product usability testing or for in-depth interviews, on criteria such as industry, role or the tools they use. Its new owner, San Francisco-based 'human insight' company UserTesting offers a platform through which participants record their screen activity and voice as they use a web site, providing feedback on issues such as why they're not buying a particular product or service.

According to UserTesting, the acquisition creates the 'largest and highest quality' global testing panels for B2B and B2C companies, and further strengthens its position in customer experience management. Christian Bonilla, CEO of UserMuse says the deal extends the reach of her firm's panel of B2B industry experts to more potential clients.

Andy MacMillan, CEO of UserTesting, adds: 'In today's digital economy there is a correlation between the experience customers have with a brand and the company's financial performance - it is paramount for companies to put themselves in the shoes of their customers to empathize and understand what delights and challenges them. This acquisition allows us to help more companies connect with more people across specialties, expertise and background to ensure they get the most valuable feedback to build products and services that customers want and love'.

Web sites: www.usertesting.com and www.usermuse.com .