A well-implemented faceted search is one of the key features of any modern e-commerce site. It helps customers quickly navigate your product range and find exactly what they want. When it works well, it clears the path to conversion, precisely what you want from your on-site search.
30.5.2025
Standard filtering gives users a few fixed options, such as brand, color, or category. But when the chosen combination of filters doesn’t match any products, customers are left staring at an empty results page—and their shopping cart stays just as empty.
Faceted search is smarter. It offers more filtering options (called facets), such as size, fit, material, or product type. More importantly, it only shows filter values that make sense based on what the user has already selected. That means no dead ends, no empty screens.
When done right, faceted search quietly guides the customer toward a purchase, and you don’t have to lift a finger.
Customers should immediately understand how to use the filters. No learning curve, no manual.
All filters and values must be easy to find and understand. Users shouldn’t get lost.
Any change in filtering should be reflected in the results instantly — no page reloads, no delays.
One click and the filter’s gone. The customer stays in control.
Filter groups must be clearly and sensibly arranged. No chaos, just clarity.
Too many options overwhelm users. Use categories and grouping to help with orientation.
Ideally, faceted search should complement full-text search. The customer types a query, filters the results, and quickly finds what they need.
It should always be clear what filters are active and how they affect the results.
On smaller screens, simplicity is even more critical. Everything should fit and work with as few taps as possible.
To make the buying process even smoother, you can turn faceted search into a powerful sales tool.
Some parameter combinations won’t return any results. Users should know that while they’re still checking boxes. Either don’t offer those combinations or indicate when no results exist.
Customers expect their filters to stay in place if they return to a page. They want to pick up right where they left off.
Good design influences conversion. If the filters look great and work smoothly, the customer has a better experience.
Brief instructions or info icons help even those who’ve never used faceted search before.
When introducing faceted search, it must fit naturally into your overall e-shop UX. A well-designed filter feels like it’s always been there. User testing will show what to improve. Analytics will help you optimize the filtering experience.
Faceted search helps users feel in control. They’re not lost in a sea of products — they make intentional choices. Often, they’ll find products they wouldn’t have seen otherwise. And they’ll buy faster.
Done right, faceted search increases revenue because it helps customers find exactly what they want. It also guides users just browsing and not knowing what they need. Facets highlight options they may not have considered.
Faceted search is simply a must-have feature for any e-shop looking to grow.
Our Search Ready engine includes advanced faceted search as part of its intelligent search functionality. We’d happily show you how to implement it on your site and turn searching into a sales-driving experience.
Contact us, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We will discuss your needs and determine if Search Ready is the right solution for you.
