Where’s Your Search Again

On the first of the month I made a post, Where’s Your Search. I mentioned the value of having a search function for you site, and in that particular case it even effected the site owners bottom line. I can’t stress enough how valuable a search function is for your site, and in this particular case it’s just plain mandatory.

I was reviewing a site called, Albox Information. I was a little disoriented when I first visited the site. I first thought it was only a directory, but then found it offered other items in the left menu that gave it more of a community site feeling. It was a directory with local information like events, and weather. I liked the idea, and it looked like a great resources for those who live in Albox, Spain. When you have a directory though, that search box has to be clearly visible on all pages. It’s what visitors expect.

I thought of ending this by saying “if you are a directory, have a search”, but I think this site could be on to something in regards to creating a community site for their area. Maybe the easiest solution could be just to redefine their title, and to reanalyze their business plan. Instead of being titled “Albox Info – The Albox Directory for you..!”  maybe a better tag line would be “All things Albox”. It’s not the greatest title I know, but with a little navigation support below it, it could be very clear to visitors what this site is all about. Here is an example of a site they could be like, Tahoetopia. It’s a small site, but has been growing quickly because it now seen as a great resource for those visiting Tahoe. You will also notice that Tahoetopia has a search box on the top left of every page of its site.