Key Takeaways
- Site search is essential for content-rich websites (50+ pages)
- 30% of visitors use search when available
- Search users convert 2-3x higher than browsers
- Autocomplete suggestions improve search experience
- Track search queries to understand user needs
When to Add Search
Add search functionality when your site has 50+ pages or complex content. Smaller sites may not need it if navigation is clear. E-commerce sites should always have robust search.
Search UX Best Practices
- Visible placement: Search should be easy to find (header, typically)
- Clear input: Use placeholder text like "Search..."
- Autocomplete: Show suggestions as users type
- Filters: Allow filtering by category, date, type
- No results: Provide helpful suggestions when nothing found
Implementation Options
Options range from simple solutions like Algolia or Google Custom Search to built-in CMS search features. Choose based on your site complexity and budget.
