In Continuum #57, we released our extensible search service in CMS. Now, out the box, you can choose to implement any one of three different site search providers in a simple, and non-technical way.
The NEW search service is also extensible, so if there’s a third party provider you’d prefer to go with, it's simple to add an adapter to act as a bridge between their service and your CMS.
With the choice of 3 different providers, it can be difficult to pick the best service for you. So, here’s a quick breakdown of when to choose which service.
1. Google Custom Search Engine
Use it if...
- You were broadly happy with Google Site Search.
- You have a limited budget for search.
- You are satisfied with the results that Google returns for your website.
Cons...
- Fairly rigid product with few customisation options.
- Limited control over what results are returned for specific keywords.
- Your search results may include third party adverts.
2. Swiftype
Use it if...
- You want a first-class search experience.
- You want to set weightings on fields and have greater control over the order in which results are returned for specific keywords.
- You want extensive analytics on search usage.
Cons...
- Limited support for in file searching, though this is on the Swiftype roadmap and is expanding.
3. Jadu
Use it if...
- You have no budget for search.
- The site has very low traffic, such as a niche Galaxies site.
- Database search so items do not need to be linked to on the website in order to be found.
Cons...
- Results may be limited or not as accurate as the alternative search providers based on web crawlers.
Continuum #57
We’ll be talking more about search in the coming weeks if you are in a position of choosing a new search tool right now we recommend you get in touch and we can advise you further.
Or, use the comments section below!