Introduction
Today, we’re looking at the UX of filter options and how these can be positioned differently depending on both the needs of the user and the merchant. If there are enough products on a site, filter options become necessary to help customers find what they’re looking for.
But that doesn’t mean that all stores have to do this the same way.
Basic Filter Layout
For shops that don’t carry a lot of products, filter options don’t typically need to be very extensive. One way to offer simple filtering options is to surface the options at the top of the Collections Page, similar to a navigation bar.
This strategy helps the site to maintain a clean and consistent design throughout and eliminates a lot of guesswork because there are no new UI elements to interpret. Because of this, users can effortlessly navigate through categories and find exactly what they're looking for. The simplicity of this approach enhances the user experience, making it easy for customers to filter through the available products.
Left Side Filtering
For brands that carry a lot of products or have products with a lot of variants, more extensive filter options might be necessary to help the user meet their needs. A clever option for this is to use a Customizable Left-Side Filter Panel.
Research suggests that users tend to favor the left side of the screen, making this approach a strategic move in terms of UX. The left-side filters provide a plethora of options, allowing users to customize their search based on different criteria such as size, color, occasion, and style. What sets this approach apart is the flexibility it offers – users can choose multiple filters simultaneously, catering to specific preferences. This is especially valuable for stores with extensive product lines, ensuring customers can find precisely what they're looking for without feeling overwhelmed.
Considerations for Your Store
The key takeaway here is the importance of filtering options tailored to your store's specific needs. If you have a limited product range, then utilizing a basic layout with essential filters can provide a clean and efficient user experience.
On the other hand, if your store boasts a wide array of products, adopting a customizable left-side filter system or adding more expansive filter options might be the way to go. The goal is to enhance user experience by facilitating easy navigation and helping customers find products that match their preferences.
Conclusion
Filtering options play a crucial role in shaping the user journey on your website. Whether you opt for a streamlined navigation approach or a customizable left-side filter system, the ultimate goal is to make the user experience seamless and enjoyable. Take a moment to review the filters on your own store and consider how you can optimize them to provide better UX for your customers.