When PrestaShop first launched, its search functionality was quite simple and limited. Users could search for products by name and keywords, but filtering and sorting options were minimal. This meant that finding the right product could be challenging, especially if the store had a large inventory.
Initial Search
Initially, the search in PrestaShop was straightforward and based on exact keyword matches. If a customer entered a query with minor errors or typos, the system often couldn't find the desired products. This created inconvenience for users and reduced the likelihood of successful purchases.
Improvements and Introduction of Fuzzy Search
Over time, the PrestaShop team recognized the need to enhance the search functionality. Numerous changes were implemented to make the search more efficient and user-friendly. One of the key improvements was the introduction of Fuzzy Search.
Fuzzy Search allows the system to find products even when there are typos or minor errors in the queries. This significantly improves the user experience, as customers can quickly and easily find the desired products without worrying about precise input.
Modern Search Features
Today, the search in PrestaShop includes the following enhancements:
- Autocomplete: While typing a query, users are provided with suggestions and possible results, speeding up the search process.
- Synonyms and Morphology: The system recognizes different word forms and synonyms, making the search more flexible.
- Filters and Sorting: Users can filter search results by various criteria such as price, brand, category, and other parameters.
Multi-Level Navigation Module
In addition to the enhanced search, PrestaShop also offers the "Multi-Level Navigation" module (faceted filter for categories). This module allows users to easily find products by applying various filters such as price, brand, size, color, and other attributes. It makes the process of searching and selecting products more convenient and faster, especially in stores with a wide range of products.
Conclusion
The evolution of search in PrestaShop has made it a powerful tool for improving user experience. The introduction of Fuzzy Search and other enhancements has significantly increased the accuracy and convenience of product searches. In upcoming articles, we will explore each aspect of search and filtering in PrestaShop in detail, including an in-depth look at how the "Multi-Level Navigation" module works.
Your opinion matters! Share your experience with PrestaShop's search functionality in the comments below. What features do you like, and what do you think could still be improved?
