An Ajax Search Widget is a dynamic tool frequently employed in websites to enhance user experience by providing real-time search results without the need for a page refresh. This widget utilizes Ajax (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) technology to fetch and display search suggestions or results instantly as users type into the search bar.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating an Ajax Search Widget in Elementor, leveraging the powerful features of the Unlimited Elements Ajax Search widget. This widget offers a seamless and interactive search experience for visitors on your Elementor-built website. Follow these step-by-step instructions to integrate an efficient and visually appealing Ajax search functionality.
Why Add an Ajax Search to Your Elementor Website?
These points highlight the key benefits of incorporating an Ajax Search Widget into your Elementor website, emphasizing faster search results, customizable design, reduced server load, dynamic content loading, integration with custom post types, and filtering options for a more refined search experience.
Faster Search Results
Ajax search delivers real-time results without the need for page reloads. Users experience quicker responses as the search dynamically fetches and displays relevant information as they type.
Customizable Design
Elementor offers a high level of customization for website design, and AJAX search widgets are no exception. You can easily integrate and style the search widget to match your website's theme, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing search experience.
Reduced Server Load
Traditional search mechanisms involve reloading the entire page or sending multiple requests to the server for each keystroke. AJAX search reduces server load by fetching and displaying search results asynchronously, minimizing the server requests and distributing the load more efficiently.
Dynamic Content Loading
Ajax search allows for dynamic loading of content, enhancing the user experience by providing instant access to relevant information. Users can preview and explore content without navigating away from the current page.
Integration with Custom Post Types
Elementor's Ajax search widget typically supports integration with custom post types. This feature ensures that users can search and find content from various sources on your website, including custom post types tailored to your specific needs.
Filtering Options and Faceted Search
AJAX search widgets often come with advanced filtering options, allowing users to refine their search results based on various criteria. This faceted search capability enhances user satisfaction by empowering them to quickly narrow down and find the exact content or products they are looking for.
Step by Step Guide
Step #1: Install and activate Unlimited Elements Pro for Elementor
Before getting started you will need to purchase Unlimited Elements pro from the link below to access the before after widget.
Then follow these steps:
Go to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin.
Choose the zip file you downloaded, upload, and then click Activate.
Once activated, you’ll need to enter your license key.
Now that you have the plugin installed, it’s time to start creating your ajax search.
Step #2: Adding the Advanced Ajax search widget to your Elementor website
To build a advanced ajax search you need to install the Ajax search widget from the Unlimited Elements Widget library.
Go to Unlimited Elements in the WordPress Dashboard
Got to Widgets -> Post Filter & Tool Widgets
Hover over the Ajax Search widget and click install
Then, in the Elementor editor, Find the Ajax search widget and drag it to the desired part of your page.
Step #3: Customize the Widget Settings
Once the widget is added, customize its settings according to your preferences. You may configure parameters such as search sources, layout, appearance, and animation effects to tailor the widget to match the design and functionality of your website.
Enable Connection to Ajax Post Filters
Activate Ajax for real-time data updates and refine results dynamically using post-filters for a seamless user experience.
Search Button Open New Window
Configure the search button to launch results in a new window, optimizing user navigation and focus on search outcomes.
Search Result open New Window
Direct search results to open in a new window, providing users with an uninterrupted view and preserving the original search context.
Search Placeholder
User input with a placeholder offering example queries or hints for effective searches.
Search Button Icon
Customize the search button icon for a visually appealing.
Show Search Lable
Display a clear and descriptive label with the search input.
Layout
Enhance user interaction by displaying suggested searches, offering quick and relevant options for efficient and intuitive exploration.
Show Suggested Searches
Improves user interaction by displaying suggested searches, providing quick and relevant options
Step #4: Configure Ajax Search Sources
Define the search sources, which could include post types, pages, categories, or custom post types, depending on your website’s content structure. This ensures that the Ajax search widget retrieves relevant and accurate results.
Step #5: Style the Ajax Search Widget
Fine-tune the visual aspects of the Ajax Search Widget to seamlessly integrate with your website’s overall design. Adjust color schemes, typography, and other styling options to create a cohesive and visually appealing search experience.
Use the testing and tools section to style certain elements inside the editor that are hidden by default without any user interaction.
Step #6: Test the Ajax Search Functionality
Preview your Elementor-built page and test the Ajax search functionality. Ensure that the widget accurately displays real-time search results as users type into the search bar, providing a responsive and efficient search experience.
Usage Example
Below is an example of what you can achieve using the Ajax Search widget. Interact with the search bar to experience a live demo of the widget.
Wrapping it Up
Congratulations on successfully integrating the Advanced Ajax Search Widget into your Elementor-built website! With this powerful tool, you’ve elevated the search experience for your visitors, providing them with a seamless and dynamic way to discover content on your site. The Advanced Ajax Search Widget goes beyond traditional search functionalities, offering advanced features that enhance user engagement and satisfaction.
