Internal Search Engines: A Comprehensive Guide to Enhancing eCommerce Conversions

Ellie Ho

January 22, 2025

•

6 min read

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Internal search engines can make or break an eCommerce site. Studies highlight that 43% of visitors immediately use the search bar upon arrival. In fact, Boost AI's AI-powered search has already helped a client see a 13% increase in conversion rates – a testament to the power of effective search.

In this article, we will explore the definition, benefits, and key components of internal search engines for eCommerce, along with insights on how to choose the right one for your business.

What is an Internal Search Engine?

An internal search engine is a tool embedded within a website that allows users to search for specific content or products.

Unlike external search engines like Google, which index the entire internet, internal search engines focus solely on the content available on a particular site. For example, an eCommerce site may use an internal search engine to help customers find specific products quickly.

Understanding the functionality of internal search engines is crucial for optimizing user experience. They not only enhance navigation but also drive engagement by making it easier for users to find what they are looking for.

What is the Difference Between Internal Search and External Search?

Everyone is familiar with Google, Bing, or, most recently, ChatGPT Search. These are all external search engines. On the other hand, the search bar we encounter when entering a specific website works on an internal search engine.

The differences extend beyond simply where the search takes place; they impact the relevance of results, the user's journey, and, ultimately, the success of your website. Let's explore these key differences in detail.

Scope:
- Internal search meticulously indexes and retrieves information solely from within a single website or application. This focused approach ensures results are highly relevant to the site's content.
- In contrast, external search engines, like Google or Bing, cast a much wider net, indexing billions of web pages across the entire internet. This broad scope provides access to a vast amount of information but often requires more filtering to identify truly relevant results.
Data Handling:
- On-site search works with a defined dataset—the content of the specific website. This allows faster processing and more precise results tailored to the site's structure and content.
- Global search, however, manages massive, constantly evolving databases drawn from countless sources. This scale necessitates complex algorithms and extensive infrastructure to handle the sheer volume of data and deliver results.
User Intent:
- Internal searches typically reflect a more immediate and specific user need. A visitor using a site's internal search is usually looking for something directly related to that site's offerings—a product, a specific article, or contact information.
- External searches, conversely, often represent broader information-seeking behavior. Users might be exploring a topic, comparing options, or investigating a range of possibilities, not necessarily tied to a single website.
Result Presentation:
- Search results in eCommerce websites are typically presented in a clean, streamlined format directly related to the website's content and structure. There are usually relevant filter options like size, color, and price for shoppers to narrow down the list with their preferred criteria.
- External search results, on the other hand, usually include a variety of formats (web pages, images, videos, news articles) from diverse sources, requiring users to assess the relevance and credibility of each result.
Control and Customization:
- Website owners have complete control over their site search functionality using a third-party app. They can adjust algorithms, prioritize certain content, and integrate the search with other website features.
- External search engines, however, operate independently, with limited control available to individual website owners. Website owners can influence rankings through SEO practices, but they cannot directly control the search engine's algorithms or results.

Benefits of Implementing an Effective Internal Search Engine

Implementing an internal search engine offers numerous advantages:

Enhanced User Experience: A well-designed internal search bar streamlines navigation, allowing users to find the information they need quickly. This ease of use reduces frustration and improves overall satisfaction, leading to a more positive user experience. Happy users are more likely to return and engage with your website.
Increased Content Discoverability: An intelligent site search takes the guesswork out of finding what visitors and shoppers need. With Boost AI Search & Discovery’s powerful semantic search algorithms, even vague queries like “protect my laptop” instantly guide users to the perfect match—think laptop covers, bags, and more. By effortlessly connecting shoppers to relevant products, articles, or content, you unlock your site’s full potential. Hidden gems are no longer buried—boosting engagement, visibility, and impact with every search.

Improved Website Navigation: A robust search function acts as a powerful navigational tool, simplifying user journeys and reducing the time spent searching. This intuitive experience keeps users engaged and prevents them from becoming frustrated and leaving your site. Efficient navigation contributes to a seamless and enjoyable user experience.
Higher Engagement and Conversion Rates: When users can easily find what they're looking for, they're more likely to stay on your website, explore further, and ultimately convert into customers. A positive search experience fosters engagement, leading to increased dwell time and higher conversion rates. Satisfied users are more likely to make a purchase or complete a desired action.

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Check out:

How Pretty Moment increased conversion rate by 13% with Boost’s AI-powered search

How Boost Helped Sparkle in Pink Achieve 7.42% in Average Search Results Click Rate

Key Components of an Effective Internal Search Engine

To ensure optimal performance, several key components should be integrated into your site search engine:

Search Algorithm and Relevance Ranking: Determines how results are prioritized based on product attributes like product name, description, vendor, etc.

Relevance settings in Boost AI Search & Discovery.

User-Friendly Interface Design: Ensures ease of use and accessibility for all users.

Easily switch instant search layout in Boost.

Autocomplete and Predictive Search Features: Suggests potential queries as users type, enhancing speed and efficiency.

Search autocomplete powered by Boost AI Search & Discovery on Sparkle in Pink.

Advanced Filtering and Sorting Options: Allows users to refine results based on specific criteria.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): Enables understanding of user intent through conversational language.

Synonym Recognition and Misspelling Correction: Improves accuracy in results despite user errors.
Mobile Responsiveness: Ensures functionality across devices for on-the-go users.
Search Analytics and Reporting Tools: Provides insights into user behavior and search performance.

Search analytics in Boost.

Integration with Other Site Features: Enhances overall functionality by connecting with existing site tools.
Customization Options: Allows businesses to tailor the search experience to their unique needs.

Leading Internal Search Engines for eCommerce stores

When selecting an internal search engine, consider these popular options:

Boost AI Search & Discovery

Boost AI Search & Discovery is a popular solution for Shopify merchants to enhance their site search. It’s known as an all-in-one app to boost product discovery with not only advanced AI-powered search but also dynamic filters, personalized recommendations, predictive bundles, and easy-to-use pre-orders.

Volume Handled: Scalable solutions for small to large enterprises.
Outstanding Features: Advanced NLP capabilities, customizable interfaces, personalization, product bundling, pre-orders and so on.
Platform Integration: Seamless integration with Shopify.
Pricing: Flexible plans tailored for various business sizes. Free plans are available.

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Algolia

Algolia is a high-end search solution for enterprise-level businesses. It caters to an extensive range of sectors, from eCommerce to media and content sites. To make the most out of Algolia, you need a certain understanding of technical knowledge to manipulate the algorithms.

Volume Handled: Handles millions of queries per second.
Outstanding Features: Real-time indexing, customizable ranking criteria.
Platform Integration: Works well with diverse tech stacks.
Pricing: Competitive pricing suitable for enterprises.

See the difference between Boost and Algolia.

Klevu

Klevu is another popular internal search engine designed specifically for eCommerce platforms. However, some users may find Klevu's pricing structure to be on the higher side, which could be a consideration for smaller businesses.

Volume Handled: Optimized for high-traffic eCommerce sites.
Outstanding Features: AI-driven product discovery, faceted navigation options.
Platform Integration: Integrates smoothly with popular CMS platforms.
Pricing: Pricing plans designed for mid-sized to large businesses.

See the difference between Boost and Klevu.

SearchSpring

SearchSpring offers tailored search engines for high-traffic retailers with personalized search results that adapt to user behavior. The downside of SearchSpring is its pricing is not publicly available, requiring you to contact the sales team for a quote.

Volume Handled: Efficiently manages large datasets for high-demand sites.
Outstanding Features: Personalized search results based on user behavior.
Platform Integration: Compatible with various eCommerce solutions.
Pricing: Offers tiered pricing models based on features needed.

See the difference between Boost and SearchSpring.

Choosing the perfect internal search engine starts with aligning the options to your unique business needs. With so many solutions out there, we’ve put together key criteria to help you find the ideal site search app for your store.

How to Choose the Most Suitable Internal Search Engine for Your Business

Selecting the right internal search engine can significantly impact your website's performance. Here are some tips:

Scalability: Choose a solution that can handle your current and future data volume.
Features: Identify the features that are most important to you, such as NLP, personalization, or advanced filtering.
Platform Integration: Ensure the search engine integrates seamlessly with your existing website platform and other systems.
Pricing: Consider your budget and choose a pricing plan that aligns with your business needs. If the search solution offers a free trial or a free plan, there’s no reason not to give it a try!

If you're on Shopify, Boost is the clear choice! Our seamless integration and powerful features make Boost the ideal solution for Shopify stores.

Future Trends in Internal Search

There is a reason why we name Scalability on your list when choosing a third-party search solution. It’s crucial to pick a tool that keeps pace with the latest trends in eCommerce and cutting-edge technology. This ensures your site stays competitive and always one step ahead of the game.

The landscape of internal search is evolving rapidly. Some exciting trends include:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Applications: AI/ML is revolutionizing search by significantly enhancing the relevance of search results. These technologies analyze search behavior and preferences to deliver more accurate and tailored results, improving the overall search experience. This is exactly what eCommerce merchants should always be chasing: faster and more accurate results for shoppers.
Voice Search Integration: With the rise of voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, optimizing for voice queries is no longer optional; it's essential. Customers are increasingly comfortable using voice search, and your internal search engine should be ready to accommodate this shift.
Personalization and User Intent Prediction: By diving into individual user behavior and browsing history, search engines can predict user intent and deliver highly tailored results. This proactive approach significantly improves engagement rates and user satisfaction. This means a more intuitive and efficient search experience for every user.

A Few Last Words

Implementing a powerful internal search engine is key to boosting user experience and driving engagement on your eCommerce website. By diving into its components, benefits, and future trends, you’ll gain the insights needed to make smarter decisions that enhance your online presence.

Ready to take your internal search to the next level? Explore Boost AI’s tailored solutions designed for eCommerce success. Elevate your site search today and unlock its full potential!

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Ellie Ho

•

Content Marketing Specialist

January 22, 2025

•

5 min read

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Internal Search Engines: A Comprehensive Guide to Enhancing eCommerce Conversions

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