Advanced Search - SmashFlyX
OVERVIEW
The new “Advanced Search” feature on SFX was was a huge and ambitious project. It was to answer the problems our users were having in searching for candidates. The search filters on the main Contacts page were limited to just eight and users were having difficulty using those filters to find the right candidates. Research was key in finding out what the pain points were with the current filters and what users wanted. We found out that users wanted the ability to conduct complicated searches and wanted access to all the filters. Many rounds of iteration led us to a solution that was query based. At the heart was AND/OR filtering options, operators, groups, and intelligent algorithms. This new functionality now allows talent acquisition teams to refine their searches with precision and speed, ultimately improving hiring outcomes.
Search Results
Role: Sr. UI/UX Designer
Company: Symphony Talent
THE CHALLENGE
The previous search functionality had limitations:
Basic Filters: Lacked advanced logical operators, leading to inefficient and broad search results. The filters were limited to eight.
Complexity in Refinement: Users found it difficult to narrow down candidate lists to meet specific criteria.
Time-Consuming Processes: Recruiters spent excessive time manually searching through irrelevant results, only to do it over and over.
KEY OBJECTIVE
To empower users to precisely and efficiently retrieve data by implementing an “Advanced Search” feature, enabling granular filtering and improved access to relevant information, thereby enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.
PROCESS
1. Research & Discovery
Interviewed recruiters to understand their challenges with the previous search tool and the criteria they frequently used.
Mapped out rough wireframes to identify opportunities for streamlining the search process.
Analyzed competitor search tools to ensure our feature was competitive and user-friendly.
2. Designed a Query-Based Advanced Search
Introduced AND/OR logical operators and other advanced filters to enable precise search queries.
Designed a clear and simple interface to guide users through building advanced queries.
Integrated intelligent algorithms to surface relevant results quickly, minimizing manual effort.
3. Prototyping & Testing
Created interactive prototypes showcasing the new search options.
Conducted usability testing with recruiters to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
Iterated the design to address pain points and improve clarity.
4. Development Collaboration
Provided annotated designs to developers and worked closely to address technical constraints.
Conducted design QA to ensure fidelity between the design and final implementation.
THE SOLUTION
The new Advanced Search feature delivered:
Query-Based Enhanced Filtering: Users can now combine their search criteria with AND/OR operators for refined results.
Time Efficiency: Intelligent algorithms prioritize relevant candidates, reducing search time.
User-Friendly Design: An intuitive interface ensures that even non-technical users can easily build complex search queries.
OUTCOME & IMPACT
Improved recruiter satisfaction. Users praised the intuitive design and advanced functionality.
Enhanced ability to identify top talent, leading to better hiring outcomes.
