Investing in a robust site search experience is essential for improving user satisfaction, driving conversions, and maximizing the effectiveness of your website. Whether through simple enhancements or advanced integrations, prioritizing site search can significantly enhance the overall user experience.
Key strategies for improving site search
Make it prominent
Ensure that your site's search function is easily accessible, preferably located in the header or prominently displayed on the homepage. Avoid burying it within cluttered interfaces like Gap's, where users may struggle to find it.
Provide alternatives
While not all websites need a search function, those that don't should offer alternative navigation options, such as knowledge bases or resource lists, to assist users in finding specific information.
Enhance autocomplete
Implement autocomplete features that not only complete users' queries but also offer relevant suggestions and filtering options, as demonstrated by Target's intuitive search interface.
Implement faceted search
Faceted search enables users to refine search results based on predefined criteria, improving navigation and reducing the time spent searching through irrelevant content. Amazon's faceted search options set a high standard for ecommerce websites.
Cater to diverse search types
Allow users to search by various criteria, such as product names, model numbers, or part numbers, to accommodate different search preferences and enhance usability. Ace Hardware's search functionality effectively handles different spellings and variations of product names.
Why is effective site search important?
Research conducted by Smashing Magazine revealed concerning statistics about the state of ecommerce site search. Many websites lack essential search features, such as support for product names or model numbers, leading to user frustration and potential loss of sales. Investing in robust site search functionality is vital for driving conversions. Visitors who use site search are often highly motivated to make a purchase, and failing to provide relevant results can deter them from completing transactions.
How to enhance your site search:
Depending on your website's content management system (CMS), there are several options for improving site search functionality:
- Utilize Google Custom Search to leverage Google's powerful search engine and enhance search capabilities.
- Explore CMS-specific options and plugins, such as SearchWP for WordPress or Searchify for Shopify, to expand search functionality and customization.
- Consider advanced options like Tipue Search or Swiftype for non-hosted platforms, providing tailored search solutions to meet specific needs.
Get Started Today
If you're considering upgrading your site search, we're here to help you navigate the process and address any questions you may have.
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