Dynamic Search Functionality

Market Context:
Users expect seamless search functionality on mobile platforms. Any difficulty in adjusting search criteria led to frustration and reduced engagement.

Revenue Impact:
The inability of users to easily refine searches decreases the number of applications submitted

User Pain Points:
Users were unable to edit search criteria after the initial search. They had to navigate back to the search icon to modify their criteria or back to the home page.

Cost of Problems:

  • Increased user drop-off rates

  • Reduced number of searches per session

  • Fewer applications were submitted

Strategic Approach

Research Insights:
User testing indicated that an always-visible search bar would improve their experience and encourage further interactions.

Solution Framework:

  • Introduce a persistent search bar accessible on every page.

  • Add context-specific filters to refine search results dynamically.

Decision Criteria:

  • Must address user pain points directly.

  • Align with business objectives to increase applications and reduce drop-offs.

  • Scalable and maintainable for future iterations.

Implementation Plan:

  1. Conduct usability testing to validate the new design.

  2. Developed and tested prototypes with dynamic filtering capabilities.

  3. Roll out the solution incrementally and monitor performance metrics.

Visual Evolution

Before:

  • Search bar limited to the homepage

  • Static search experience requiring users to return to the homepage to modify criteria

After:

  • The search bar is visible on all pages

  • Filters tailored to refine results

Key Iterations:

  • Initial prototype with basic functionality

  • Feedback-based improvements, including enhanced filter options and responsive design adjustments

  • Final implementation

Decision Points:

  • Ensuring a balance between visibility and real estate on mobile.

  • Prioritising speed and usability to prevent performance trade-offs

Final Solution

Why This Works:

  • Aligns with business goals by increasing application rates and user engagement.

  • Demonstrates strategic thinking through user-centric design

  • Delivers measurable impact, justifying the investment

Implementation Steps:

  1. Conducted a comprehensive audit of existing search functionality

  2. Reorganised search-related case studies to highlight user pain points and improvements

  3. Integrated key metrics and performance data to validate success.

  4. Included client feedback to emphasise real-world impact.

This project underscores the value of user-centered design and its direct impact on achieving business objectives, providing a framework for future enhancements to mobile functionality.

Measurable results

Revenue Increase: Improved job application rates directly contributed to increased revenue from job postings.

  • User Metrics:

    • 15% increase in the number of searches per session

    • 20% reduction in drop-off rates on search results pages

    • 10% increase in completed job applications

  • Performance Data: Higher engagement levels were observed across all user segments