How is advanced search UI useful in enterprise products?
-
Advanced search UI enables users to refine queries with filters for precise results, making it ideal for global searches in data-heavy applications.
-
Display advanced search features directly in the interface or behind an icon for a cleaner look, or use a separate page for managing large datasets and specialized tools.
-
Implement advanced search when users need to filter extensive datasets, access role-specific data, monitor frequent updates, or work in complex workflows.
-
Avoid advanced search if the app has minimal data, users perform simple searches, or the primary function is not data-centric.
-
Common design patterns include dropdowns, checkboxes, radio buttons, sliders, tags, and calendars for parameter selection; distinguish AI search options with separate icons, interfaces, and tutorials.
Deep dive
Advanced search UI or filtered search allows users to fine-tune their search queries for more precise results, especially in global app searches where complex filtering options are needed. In contrast, local searches usually don't require this level of detail.
Advanced search UX features can be displayed right away or tucked behind an icon for a streamlined look.
Sometimes, these advanced search capabilities can also be accessed on a separate page. This approach is used when:
-
There are large datasets with many filters to navigate.
-
Users need a focused area to create detailed searches.
-
Specialized search tools require more space.
Do enterprise apps need advanced search UX?
Consider implementing advanced search in enterprise app design when:
-
Users need to filter through thousands of records or files to find specific information quickly.
-
Different departments or roles require unique search settings to access the most relevant data for their tasks.
-
The data in your app is updated frequently, and users need to monitor changes or trends efficiently.
-
Users often search for information as part of complex workflows.
When can advanced search in UI design be a bad idea?
Sometimes, advanced search might not be the best solution. Avoid implementing it when:
-
The app handles only a small amount of data, where users can easily find what they need without complex search tools.
-
Users generally perform simple searches, where basic search functionality suffices.
-
The app's primary function isn't data-driven, and search isn't a significant part of the user experience.
-
The users are not tech-savvy, and advanced search in UI might confuse them more than assist.
What are common advanced search design patterns for parameters?
Dropdowns: Use when a user needs to select one option from a list.
If your tool includes parameters with long lists, such as names or categories, then add a search function within those parameters to help users find what they need quickly and efficiently.
Checkboxes: Use for multiple options.
Radio buttons: Use for single selection from a set of mutually exclusive options.
Sliders: Use for setting a value within a range.
Tags (or Chips): Use for selecting multiple criteria.
Calendar: Use for visually selecting dates or ranges directly on a calendar interface.
How to design AI search UI?
When adding AI capabilities to search bars, it's important to set these advanced features apart from regular filters and make them easily accessible for users to fully benefit:
-
Add a clear "Search with AI" button or icon next to the standard search bar to highlight enhanced options.
- Create a separate interface that clearly presents AI-powered features, distinct from basic search functions.
-
Offer short tutorials, tooltips or suggestions to help users understand AI features.
🤝 Credits
Our content combines the knowledge of Cieden’s designers with insights from industry influencers. Big thanks to all the influencers for sharing awesome content!
- How To Improve Advanced Search UX by UX World