Tips for better search results

[Dan Peterman]

When i look over the data i get from my search logs, i am seeing that about 30% of the searches conducted come back with nothing. i have it so that if anything comes back with nothing the search offers suggestions, but i would like results to come back more frequently. Do you have any tips or ideas on what i can do to improve this statistic? Or is this a normal percent? Do other people get similar results? What percent should i strive for? Thank you in advance for any advice.

[sizbut]

Use the synonyms feature where possible. Try to think of alternate words that people might use for items in your content. It's also a good tool for common spelling mistakes you see in the logs and for catching US to UK English differences.

Also look at the word joining characters specified in your Zoom configuration, especially if your content includes terms that switch between hypenatated and non-hyphenated.

[David]

It can also be an indication that your customers are looking for products and services that you aren't currently offering. If enough people are searching for something you don't have then this might help you move into profitable new lines of business.

Besides this, we also see a lot of nonsensical searches. For our top 20 search terms, 4 or 5 don't make much sense. e.g. people searching for the word "hello" and "test".

Also, on the topis better search results, If you do get some results, then this FAQ can help get the rankings how you want it.

[Dan Peterman]

Thanks

Thanks for the advice. i will try it and see how it works. if any one else has any advice i am all ears. Thanks again...