Optimize Your Shopify Store with the Search & Discovery App

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the Shopify Search and Discovery App
3. Editing Filters in the App
   • Using Product Attributes
   • Tag Filtering
   • Product Options and Variants
   • Meta Field Filters
4. Enhancing the Search Function
   • Creating Synonyms for Products
   • Improving Search Results
5. Utilizing Product Boosts
6. Controlling Product Recommendations
   • Adding Complementary Products
   • Customizing the Product Recommendations Section
7. Limitations and Considerations
8. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the Shopify Search and Discovery App, a powerful tool released by Shopify to enhance the search and discovery experience for online store owners. We will delve into the various features of the app, including editing filters, improving search functionality, boosting product visibility, and controlling product recommendations. By understanding and utilizing these features effectively, you can optimize your Shopify store and provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers.

Overview of the Shopify Search and Discovery App

The Shopify Search and Discovery App was launched by Shopify in late September to early October 2022. It offers several key features that enhance the search, filtering, and product recommendation capabilities of your online store. The app takes over the core functionality of the Shopify admin, allowing you to edit filters, control search results, and manage product recommendations directly from the app.

Editing Filters in the App

Filters are an essential part of any online store, allowing customers to refine their search and find the products they are looking for. With the Shopify Search and Discovery App, you can easily edit and customize your filters.

Using Product Attributes

The app offers a range of product attributes that can be used as filters, such as availability, price, and product type. You can also enable tag filtering, which was reintroduced with the app's release. By setting up these filters, you can provide customers with more targeted search options and improve their shopping experience.

Product Options and Variants

If your products have different options or variants, such as color or size, you can configure filters based on these attributes. This allows customers to narrow down their search according to their preferences and find the exact product they need.

Meta Field Filters

For more advanced filtering options, the app allows you to use meta field filters. Meta fields are custom fields that you can add to your products to provide additional information and categorization. By utilizing meta field filters, you can create entirely custom filters to meet your specific needs.

Enhancing the Search Function

The search function in Shopify has sometimes been subpar, leaving customers frustrated with inaccurate or incomplete search results. However, the Shopify Search and Discovery App aims to improve this functionality and provide a more seamless search experience.

Creating Synonyms for Products

One of the key features of the app is the ability to create synonyms for your products. Synonyms enable customers to search for products using different names or terms that they may be more familiar with. For example, if your product is called "leggings," you can create synonyms such as "tights" or "yoga pants" to ensure that customers can find your products regardless of the term they use.

Improving Search Results

In addition to synonyms, the app allows you to control the search results by promoting certain products at the top of the search results page. This feature, known as "product boosts," enables you to prioritize specific products that are most relevant or popular for a particular search term. By utilizing product boosts effectively, you can enhance the visibility of your top-selling products and guide customers to the products they are most likely to purchase.

Utilizing Product Boosts

Product boosts are a powerful tool in the Shopify Search and Discovery App that allows you to promote specific products in the search results. By configuring product boosts, you can ensure that your top-selling or most relevant products are prominently displayed to customers when they search for specific terms. This feature can significantly impact your store's conversion rate and drive more sales.

Controlling Product Recommendations

The Shopify Search and Discovery App also offers robust capabilities for managing product recommendations on your online store. You have control over both complementary products and the product recommendations section.

Adding Complementary Products

Complementary products are products that can be linked to a main product as recommendations. With the app, you can easily add complementary products to ensure that customers are presented with relevant options that go well with their intended purchase. This feature is particularly useful for suggesting add-ons, accessories, or alternative products that customers may find appealing.

Customizing the Product Recommendations Section

The app allows you to customize the product recommendations section that appears on the product page. You can choose which products to display and control their order and visibility. With the ability to customize this section, you can ensure that customers are shown products that best match their preferences, thereby increasing the likelihood of upsells and cross-sells.

Limitations and Considerations

While the Shopify Search and Discovery App offers significant advantages for enhancing your online store's search and discovery features, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind. For example, the availability of certain features, such as the complementary products block, depends on the theme you are using. If your theme does not support these features, you may need to update to a newer version or explore alternative solutions. Additionally, it is important to regularly review and update your filters, search terms, and product boosts to ensure they remain effective and relevant to your customers.

Conclusion

The Shopify Search and Discovery App is a valuable tool that can greatly improve the search and discovery experience for your online store. By leveraging its features, such as editing filters, enhancing search functionality, utilizing product boosts, and controlling product recommendations, you can optimize your store's performance, increase customer satisfaction, and boost sales. Stay proactive in managing and optimizing your search and discovery capabilities to ensure the best possible shopping experience for your customers.

Highlights:

• The Shopify Search and Discovery App enhances search and discovery capabilities in your online store.
• The app allows you to edit filters, improve search functionality, control product recommendations, and promote specific products.
• Creating synonyms improves search accuracy by recognizing alternative names or terms for products.
• Product boosts prioritize specific products in search results to increase visibility and sales.
• Customizable product recommendations enable you to display complementary products or alternatives on the product page.
• Considerations include theme compatibility and regular review of filters and search terms.

FAQ

Q: Is the Shopify Search and Discovery App free to use? A: Yes, the app is available for free on the Shopify App Store.

Q: Can I use the app with any Shopify theme? A: The availability of certain features, such as the complementary products block, depends on the theme you are using. Ensure that your theme supports these features or consider updating to a newer version.

Q: Can I customize the order and visibility of product recommendations? A: Yes, you have full control over the product recommendations section and can customize the order and visibility of products to best match your customers' preferences.

Q: How often should I review and update my filters and search terms? A: It is recommended to regularly review and update your filters, search terms, and product boosts to ensure they remain effective and relevant to your customers' needs.

Q: Is there a limit to the number of product boosts or complementary products I can add? A: The app does not impose specific limits on the number of product boosts or complementary products you can add. However, it is important to maintain a balanced and relevant selection of recommendations to avoid overwhelming or confusing customers.