Filters and Searches
Filters are good for reducing the amount of data, especially complex data, that is displayed as the result of a search. Use them for queries that would otherwise result in more data than could be displayed effectively.
Choose a method for providing possible values based on the amount and complexity of the data involved. Consider the following:
- A sort function (figure 1) allows users to sort each column in ascending or descending order by selecting the link on the column header.
- Filtering dropdowns (figure 2) are good for up to 15 values and are good for reducing the number of items in a list.
- Search fields (figure 3) require data entry. They should be used to find expressions that are too large to be offered in a dropdown list box. Two search fields can be combined on one row and interpreted as an "AND." A search field can also be combined with a dropdown list box to limit the search within a category. The advantage of a search row is that it remains available on the search results page if a new search is required.
- Search pages (figure 4) are good for advanced searches containing many criteria. They would contain a "Find" title, input fields, and a Search button.
Figure 1: Sort function
Figure 2: Filtering dropdown
Figure 3: Search field combined with filtering dropdown
Figure 4: Search page
Prohibited
The use of filtering tabs, which is problematic for internationalization.
Figure 5: Prohibited filtering tabs
