[Helen Bantock]

Hi
I am quoting another client on producing a directory on their website. I have used Connections before (3 times) and have done some research on how to create custom fields for this particular project. The client has come back asking me if his directory will be able to have a search facility on it. I would very much like to find out the following details:

Can I use the search facility on the basic template (which I usually slightly restyle and reorder)?

Can I customise it to find information in the new fields I have made?

Can you place a search box for Connections in a widget (sidebar or footer)?

I welcome your advice and input.
Many thanks
Helen

[Steven Zahm]

@ Helen

RE: Can I use the search facility on the basic template (which I usually slightly restyle and reorder)?

If you use the Search widget included in the Widget Pack the Default template will work correctly with it. That said, I would recommend the cMap template instead (the Searhc widget also works with cMap if you want to use both).

RE: Can I customise it to find information in the new fields I have made?

If they are text field, yes. All you need to do after you add the fields is navigate to the Connections : Settings admin page and click the Search tab. You will find your newly added text field as search options. Enable them to have search query those fields. I would recommend keeping the number of field to a minimum as to keep the results as relevant as possible for your users.

RE: Can you place a search box for Connections in a widget (sidebar or footer)?

Yes, the Search widget can be placed in any widget area that the theme supports.

I hope I have thoroughly answered your questions!

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