Search facility in steemit

Need for In-app search

I have observed that when trying searching for any post or author on steemit, only google search is available. This really needs improvement as it looks unprofessional and an in-app search facility is very important.

Having an in-app search would help in the further collection of important data regarding user preference and further the ultimate goal of showing targeted advertisements to the users to generate revenue. It is important to note that the steemit whitepaper clearly states that steemit may collect user data.

Ideal Steemit Search
The search should be intuitive and not very elaborate. The reason being that users would have only a few search heads to look for. They may either be searching for author, post or tag.

I suggest that the search should be like the one available with flipkart.com.

The search heads, instead of mobile, backpacks, laptop bags should be:

1. author,
2. post,
3. tags,
4. latest.

Search Suggestions
Further, a search suggestions page needs to be there on similar lines to google:

I understand that showing suggestions would mean storing individual browsing data on steemd servers which steemit seems to be doing at very basic level. An alternate way could be storing the data in the browser itself (if feasible maybe through cookies).

Advantages

1. Easy search on steemit would enable users to find the needed content quickly which will enable increased user engagement leading to users spending more time on steemit.
2. A more professional looking website.
3. Easy availability of user preference data for future targeted advertisement.
4. Less dependence of third-party search provider like Google.

Disadvantages

1. None. (Some developers would need to spend some time on it but it will be totally worth it)

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Open Source Contribution posted via https://utopian.io

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