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Straightfoward search forms at a glance

Site Genre: Pattern Group j

magnify imageFigureJ2.1 Epicurious’s search form does not require much precision from the customer. Searching for red cabbage slaw results in recipes that have the exact term red cabbage slaw near the top, with variants like red cabbage and carrot slaw included as well.

Background

SEARCH ACTION MODULES (J1) make it easy for your customers to find the search feature on your site. However, the way search terms are specified can confuse customers. This pattern describes how to avoid common errors with search entry forms.

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PROBLEM

Search forms are often ineffective because they require too much precision.

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SOLUTION

magnify image FigureJ2.2 Search results should include words and concepts that are closely related.

Use a search engine that does not require extreme precision. Avoid Boolean searches and exact matches. Compensate for the use of different terms to mean the same thing. Set the search engine to look across all categories by default.

Other Patterns to Consider

Straightforward search forms need to be part of a visible SEARCH ACTION MODULE (J1) that visitors can easily find on a Web page. To assist your customers with searching, it’s important to implement CLEAR FORMS (H10). In addition, ORGANIZED SEARCH RESULTS (J3) will make it easier for your customers to understand what the search engine has found for them.

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