In a world where information is flooding and a company's digital presence is critical to its success, the ability to find relevant content quickly and efficiently is becoming increasingly important. At punkt.de, we recognize this challenge and specialize in developing advanced search solutions that help our customers achieve just that. With extensive experience in Elasticsearch and Solr technologies, we offer customized search that goes far beyond the traditional.
The possible search functions
Our standard search solutions offer comprehensive indexing of all content types - from articles to pages to events. We go one step further and enable indexing of file attachments with full text search, including documents and PDFs, to ensure that no detail is overlooked.
But we understand that every website is unique and requires customized solutions. That's why we discuss advanced features with our customers such as
- Different result sorting: We offer flexible sorting options to customize the search to users' specific needs. Events, for example, should also be able to be sorted chronologically in addition to their relevance to the search parameters. This means that the most relevant and upcoming events are always at the top of the search results.
- List display in the project from the search index: An optimized list display, as can be seen on the CGM event overview page, for example, makes it easier for users to find relevant information.
- Different filters: Whether by date, taxonomy or content type - our search solutions offer a wide range of filter options to refine the search.
In addition, the following functions significantly improve the search experience:
- Autocomplete: While entering the search word, matching search word suggestions are already made to save visitors from having to type in the complete search word.
- Search suggestions: Matching search results are already displayed as the search term is typed in, so that searchers can access relevant search results more efficiently.
- Continuation of the search: Similar terms are displayed for the existing search terms, which can positively influence the search result.
- Denylist: With this function, certain search results can be excluded and are therefore no longer displayed to visitors.
- Fuzzy search: The function best known as "Did you mean ...?" for correcting typos and finding similarly spelled words
- Cross-source search: For projects that take several instances and portals into account, it must be clarified in which search context results are to be found.
- Domain-specific search: The search index is enriched with data from different domains and subdomains so that the search can also find cross-project results.
- Visitor tracking: The search is fed with additional data based on the search terms used by users. This allows the search results to be adapted even more specifically to the visitor's habits.
The data can also be enriched with additional information in the presentation of the search results. The following options further increase the quality of the search:
- Call to action directly from the search
- Additional information such as contact details, addresses, etc.
- Display of the taxonomies used in the search result data record
The search from the product owner's perspective
The product owners are key figures in the development of an effective search. On the one hand, there is the technical decision between SOLR and Elasticsearch to be made together with the development team, on the other hand, the understanding of existing building blocks and configurations as well as budget management are decisive for the success of the project.
The search is therefore always a joint project involving everyone in the project team and the stakeholders. The following challenges and solutions can be identified:
- Development process: integrating the search functions at the end of the project seems obvious at first, as all content types are available here, but it can also lead to unnecessary complications. Including search earlier in the development process makes it possible to plan the architecture around the search requirements from the outset.
- Managing expectations: Getting customers used to Google-like search experiences can be a challenge. Early discussions about search features and active expectation management are essential.
- Content quality: Search quality also depends largely on the quality of the content. An ongoing dialogue with the customer about the optimization and weighting of search results helps to continuously improve the search experience.
Start your own search function today
Searches on websites are more than just an input field; they are at the heart of the user experience and a critical factor in the success of your digital presence. At punkt.de, we strive to develop search solutions that are not only efficient, but also intuitive and customizable. If you're ready to take your search capabilities to the next level, contact us at kaffee@punkt.de.
Whether you want to optimize your existing search or develop a completely new search solution, our team is ready to make your vision a reality.
More extensive searches of punkt.de
