
Out-of-the-box solutions often provide a strong foundation but can fall short when unique business needs require advanced customization. This was the case for a client using HawkSearch. The standard HawkSearch widget, while effective for basic search functionalities, had limitations when the client needed custom search fields, business-oriented facet filtering, and enhanced accessibility. The constraints of the client library made these customizations difficult and time-consuming.
To solve this, Visus, LLC took an API-first approach, developing a custom Sitefinity widget that integrated with the HawkSearch API. This new widget manages filtering, facets, sorting criteria, and more, dynamically building a search results page based on the response data. By eliminating reliance on the client library, the solution allowed for greater flexibility, using frameworks like jQuery, KendoUI, and Bootstrap to render search results and controls. This customization provided a more adaptable and powerful search experience tailored to the client’s needs.
One of the key takeaways from this project was the importance of flexibility and scalability in search solutions. Relying solely on out-of-the-box tools can limit customization, especially when unique business requirements arise. By adopting an API-first approach, we ensured that the solution would be more adaptable and easier to integrate with different frameworks or design libraries in the future. Additionally, we prioritized accessibility, ensuring the search functionality would be usable by all users regardless of the framework.
In the end, the customized HawkSearch solution enabled the client to enhance their search functionality, improve user experience, and future-proof their search infrastructure. The approach not only met their immediate needs but also set the stage for continued growth and improvements.