j1

Search action module at a glance

Site Genre: Pattern Group j

magnify imageFigure J1.1 IMDb’s Web site provides an effective search feature one that is both simple and powerful.

Background

As a standard element of MULTIPLE WAYS TO NAVIGATE (B1) and a counterpart to BROWSABLE CONTENT (B2), this pattern explains the search half of the search and browse combination.

Close

PROBLEM

Customers sometimes want to jump quickly from one location to another, but search pages are often too complex for such functionality.

buy the book to find out more

SOLUTION

magnify image Figure J1.3 Customers will readily use the search action module if it is simple and appears on every page.

Build a search action module into every page, using simple phrasing that indicates the search space for typing in words or phrases and providing an action button for starting the search. If you have a large site and want to give customers the ability to search a subsection, add a list of subsections and the word for to indicate the string to look for.

Other Patterns to Consider

Keep your search tool in a consistent place on every page, ABOVE THE FOLD (I2) at the top left, middle, or right. If you’re WRITING FOR SEARCH ENGINES (D6) when you develop your site’s search facility, customers will use your site‘s content more readily because the search action module will exist on every page. Make the button that starts the search, which is often labeled Search or Go, an ACTION BUTTON (K4). When necessary, customers can fill out more detailed STRAIGHTFORWARD SEARCH FORMS (J2). Results will always be returned on an ORGANIZED SEARCH RESULTS (J3) page.

Close

 

Pattern Resources

PATTERN COMMENTS

POST A COMMENT and/or EXAMPLE WEB SITE

Sign in Form

(required)

(required, but not displayed)

Have a idea for a new pattern group? Join our disscussion on new pattern ideas.