For most mobile applications, including a search function is a perk for users. Some mobile developers do a good job of adding it to their existing framework, even though it may not be essential.
For most mobile applications,
including a search function is a perk for users. Some mobile developers do a good job of adding it to their existing framework, even though it may not be essential. In this regard, a search function is more of a bonus for users than a mandatory addition. On the other hand, there are apps that simply cannot function without a search feature. Regardless of which category your enterprise falls under, if it relates to any of the five following apps, then you should at least consider adding a search function.
Classifieds
If by chance you are designing an app for local or region classified listings, then you will most certainly need to include a search function. It goes without saying that your users need to be able to search the listings on your app for it to be successful. Without it, they would simply have to look through each and every listing whether it specifically pertains to what they are looking for or not, which is undoubtedly a waste of time. To improve the user experience of your classifieds app, you should work with your design team to create an algorithmic search function that allows users to navigate for words included in the featured listings.
Social Media Suites
Including a search function on a social media suite app is essential for users to have an effective presence on any social network. Whether someone uses your app to access their Twitter feed, Facebook page, or another social network, having a search function is vital for networking with new friends, checking the current trending topics, and a number of other aspects of social media that require searching for specific words.
Investing
If you are designing an app for tracking a user's investment portfolio, then you will most certainly want to include search capabilities. Whether it is for the stock market, forex trading, or one of the many other investments, users of your app will need to search through the plethora of options in any given market in order to find their next investment. For such reason, you should include a search function that will allow users to sift through the various markets, as well as track their portfolio.
Weather Forecasts
Besides the weatherman not always being on-point with predictions, mobile device users can get frustrated trying to check the weather, and not just in one place. Users like to look at the weather where they will be traveling, or perhaps even where a friend lives, which is why a weather forecasting app must have a search function. Without one, it is almost impossible to check the weather, regardless of where someone is located.
Music
Just like the previously mentioned apps, without a search function, it is nearly impossible to enjoy a music library. Just look at Spotify, Pandora, or any of the other Internet radio apps, they all have a search function that allows users to look and subsequently listen to their favorite songs, artists and albums. Without a search function, using your app would be like flipping through the phone book every time a user wants to hear a specific song — tedious and boring.
Conclusion
There may still be a chance that your app simply does not belong to any of the aforementioned categories, however, if it does, you should definitely consider adding a search function. What's more, doing so may give your users a better experience when navigating your mobile offering and subsequently encourage them to use it more frequently.
