No matter how effective your navigation is, impatient users will frequently default to using site search. After all, we� �ve been trained to do so. This fact is illustrated perfectly by considering the dominance of search engines such as

Google over web directories. Unfortunately for the user, internal site search features rarely perform as well as major search engines. This article will cover some of the major problems of eCommerce site search and suggest solutions.

Show Non-Product Results

If you analyze your log files, you� �ll likely find that many search queries using your internal site search are not related to products. For example, visitors will commonly search for terms such as � �return policy� � or � �employment.� �

Make sure your site search can display results from your site content as well as your product database.

Filter by age, price, or department

It can be frustrating when a site search query returns too many results. Allow your visitors to filter down the results to increase the relevancy. Common filter criteria are age (newness), price, department, color, and popularity.

Show Last Search Query in Search Box

After a user performs a search, populate the search form field with the exact query the customer entered. This will allow them to realize if they made a typo when searching. It will also help them realize their search may have been to vague and they need to refine it.

Handle Misspelled Search Terms

Analyze your weblogs to see what people are searching for. Specifically, look at keywords that dont return any results. Make sure your site search can accommodate common misspellings and grammar errors.

Many studies have found that users who find product using the site search feature more often convert to sales. However, this assumes that the site search works properly. Starting with the tips above, fine tune your website search feature to perform as your customers expect it to.

For more ideas to improve your e-Commerce site, please visit PalmerWebMarketing.com.