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How to Improve Product Discovery in Ecommerce Stores?
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Ecommerce

How to Improve Product Discovery in Ecommerce Stores?

Dziugas Alminas
Oct 28, 2024
4.5
min read

Having a vast inventory can be a huge advantage for Ecommerce stores, but only if customers can navigate easily. Streamlining product discovery boosts conversions and makes shopping a more enjoyable experience.

Many Ecommerce stores struggle with product discovery, particularly those with large inventories. Simplifying this process can significantly boost conversions. It also creates a more pleasant shopping experience for customers.

The strategies outlined below do more than just reduce friction. They encourage users to explore more of your catalog, increasing both engagement and AOV. Implementing these techniques ensures users will enjoy a smoother, more engaging experience as they shop.

Ways to improve product discovery

1. Flawless Search

A robust search function is crucial for stores with large product catalogs. Shoppers who use search convert at a higher rate than those who do not.

Incorporating smart search features such as autofill and autosuggest can significantly enhance the user experience. By guiding users with popular products, or collections in their search results, you're also creating an opportunity to market new arrivals and top-selling items.

Use search not only to fulfill users' needs but also to introduce them to new products. Use it as a marketing channel.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
2. Quiz

When customers are unsure where to begin, quizzes can be a powerful tool to guide them. Quizzes help narrow down choices and prevent analysis paralysis, allowing users to focus on the best products for their needs.

Visitors who take a quiz often have a higher conversion rate. To maximize engagement, prominently promote the quiz on your homepage. Additionally, feature it in other key areas of the site, such as navigation. This ensures the quiz is an accessible starting point for users.

Image source: Quizify Shopify app demo quiz
3. Clear Navigation

Your navigation should be straightforward, helping users discover products quickly and efficiently. A clear navigation menu can guide users through your product offerings without frustration. Additionally, search should be easily accessible within the navigation.

Consider experimenting with sticky navigation, ensuring quick access to search or product collections. A dedicated sales tab, displayed in a different color, can also grab users' attention quickly. Including imagery within the navigation is another idea to enhance visual appeal and make navigation more intuitive.

Breadcrumbs are another helpful element. They offer users a familiar way to retrace their steps. This contributes to both better usability and SEO.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
4. Product Carousels on the Homepage

Since the homepage is where most users first land, it serves as an ideal place to showcase your products. Product carousels allow you to highlight various items, from best-sellers to seasonal products.

Do not feel restricted to just one carousel—use multiple to feature trending products, bundles, or items with special promotions. This variety not only introduces shoppers to different categories but also encourages further exploration.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
5. Product Carousels on the PDP

Once a user is on a Product Detail Page, they have shown interest, but they could still be undecided. Displaying similar products in a carousel on the PDP can help convert users who are not entirely convinced about a specific item.

Additionally, showing recently viewed products keeps customers engaged. This is especially true for returning customers. They may have explored earlier but have not yet added items to their cart. These reminders can nudge them toward completing a purchase.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
6. Ratings on the Product Cards

Product ratings, shown with stars and review counts, help customers quickly gauge the credibility of products. Featuring these on product cards can increase the likelihood of users clicking through to the PDP. This moves them further down the sales funnel.

Once users are on the PDP, additional product carousels can help introduce even more relevant products. This creates a more personalized shopping experience.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
7. Filters

Filters are crucial for users who know what they want but need to narrow down their options. Effective filters enable shoppers to refine search results quickly. This improves the overall shopping experience.

Allow users to apply multiple filters at once. Include filters such as price range and product ratings. This prevents user frustration and makes their search more efficient. Consider making popular filters sticky so they remain easily accessible during browsing.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store
8. Product comparison

Items such as electronics, where comparing features is key. Shoppers need the ability to easily weigh their options side-by-side to make informed decisions.

Enable users to add products for comparison directly from collection pages. This allows them to assess important details before diving into PDPs.

Implement a comparison tool which highlights key similarities and differences across specifications. This not only aids decision-making but also keeps users engaged, helping them stay on your site longer.

Image source: Shopify theme demo store

Conclusion

Enhancing product discovery is vital for Ecommerce stores with large inventories. Tools such as smart search, clear navigation, and interactive quizzes can effectively guide users to the right products. Easy-to-use filters and product comparisons further improve the user-friendly shopping experience.

Offering product carousels and displaying ratings or reviews on product cards also increases product visibility. These tactics prevent users from feeling overwhelmed and help them find what they need with ease.

A well-designed product discovery process enhances user experience. It also increases conversion rates and fosters long-term success. If you are not sure, always run an A/B test to figure out the most effective approach. By making thoughtful adjustments, you create an experience which keeps customers coming back.

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