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Improve Search Results in a Knack Database App

Writer's picture: Dave ParrishDave Parrish

Updated: Jul 5, 2024



Improving Search Results: Strategies That Work

Hey folks, Dave Parrish here again, diving into database functionality in this latest blog post and video. If you enjoy this content, don't forget to hit that like button on YouTube—it really helps! Today, I want to talk about a crucial topic: how to enhance search results, particularly for more complex queries.


Understanding the Challenge

Some searches are straightforward—you're looking for an invoice number or a customer's details, and you use basic search functions or keywords. But what about when the search isn't so simple? Imagine high school students in Chicago trying to find vocational programs. They're not just searching for specific terms; they're exploring broad topics, trying to narrow down their options. This complexity requires a different approach to search optimization.


Lessons from the Field

In my experience, working on projects like these has taught me valuable lessons about improving search functionality. Initially, we faced challenges where the desired results weren't showing up as expected. Here are some effective strategies I've developed:


1. Utilizing Connected Fields

When searching within a database, especially for related information like service providers within vocational programs, don't just rely on the default display fields. Instead, utilize connected fields. For instance, rather than displaying the provider's name as it appears in the service table, jump to the connected field that links to the provider's comprehensive data. This simple adjustment can significantly enhance search accuracy.


2. Leveraging Text Formulas

Text formulas are powerful tools for enriching search results. For example, when dealing with providers who offer multiple services, it's beneficial to include not just their names but also relevant descriptions, locations, and other pertinent details. By using text formulas, you can aggregate this information from parent records and integrate it into child service records. This method ensures that the search results are more comprehensive and useful to the end user.


3. Incorporating Tags and Keywords

In more intricate search scenarios, such as those involving diverse user queries, incorporating tags or keywords can be incredibly effective. Similar to how you tag blog posts or YouTube videos, adding descriptive keywords to records helps in surfacing relevant information. This approach, although slightly time-consuming, pays off by making searches more intuitive and productive.


Client Satisfaction through Improved Functionality

Implementing these strategies has consistently led to positive outcomes for clients. By fine-tuning search mechanisms with these methods, we've successfully navigated complex search requirements, ultimately improving user satisfaction. Clients have noted significant improvements in how relevant information is surfaced, aligning closely with their needs and expectations.


Looking Ahead

While current database search functionalities may not operate as intuitively as a Google search, there's always room for improvement. As technology advances, the hope is that database systems will evolve to deliver even more precise and context-aware search results.


Final Thoughts

So there you have it—three practical tips based on real-world experience that can transform how you approach search optimization within databases. Whether you're managing educational databases or any other complex system, these strategies can help you streamline searches and deliver more relevant results.


I hope you found these insights valuable. Thanks for tuning in. Until next time, happy searching!



You can check out my Knack database services here: Knack!


Interested in my services? Book an intro call: https://calendly.com/daveparrish/callwithdave


Get a free Knack trial account here: https://www.knack.com/r/you-tube


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