Search Filter UI on Left

[fongj]

Is there a way to move the search result filters from the top (which is kinda weird) to the left side? Most popular sites filter their searches using a left module, not drop downs at the top.

[AbhishekIlindra]

@fongj : Did you referring to this widget.

If so it can be handled in the Studio in the search Page. Kindly check this Document for more information.

If my post is helpful and answers your question, please give "Kudos" and "Accept it as a Solution."

Thanks & Regards,
Abhishek Illindra

[VarunGrazitti]

@fongj - The search page in Lithium is one which is not easily customized since it only has one unified component called Search Encapsulation, which contains the filters and the results. So, you cannot drag and drop to change the layout. One work around is that you make some styling changes using CSS, but you'd have to test that thoroughly to see if that works well on all the devices.

 

[ClaudiusH]

The top position of the search filter options is a result of reviewing the experience to work on a responsive view across device screen sizes. If you look at most web search pages you will find that they also put the search filter horizontally on top and departed from the sidebar position.

You can re-position the Lithium search filter to sidebar using CSS, but then you need to work out how it reverts back to a one column layout on tablet and mobile screens. I would actually suggest sticking with the top position as most user tests show the filters are most visible and used there.

[fongj]

You mean like most popular shopping sites who use filters?
Amazon?
Walmart?
Banana Republic/GAP/Old Navy?
New Egg?
I can’t think of any instance that have used horizontal filters up at the top.

[fongj]

Yes that is the widget. I find it odd that it is on the top and there is no option to have it on the left.

[ClaudiusH]

I was referring to Bing and Google as content search experiences. Product search experiences usually have more filter facets that require more real estate that pushes those widgets to go vertical.
I think the Lithium search is right at the border between being a bit crammed in the horizontal placement, but putting it in the vertical sidebar taking away too much precious space and leaving empty space below.

[fongj]

Good point. We would still like an option to have it on the left side to match the rest of our site layout.

[fongj]

Yes, that is the widget that I am referring to. Just talked to our developer and it seems that the Studio does not allow for easy customization of that filtering UI.