What does a Slice Search Box look like?
Below is an example of a Slice Search Box that searches different Slices of NHL.com.
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Why would I want to use a Slice Search Box?
This feature is another way to help users find exactly what they're looking for. It will allow
users to optionally decide which part of your web site they wish to search before they submit their search query. With
this feature, they can either search your entire web site (the current style) or just within certain slices of your web
site.
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How does my web site have to be organized in order for Slice Search to work?
If your web site content is divided into different folders (directories) then you're ready to use the
Slice Search Box. However, if your web site files and folders are rather scattered about, without organization, then the
Slice Search Box may not be an applicable solution.
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How is a Slice defined?
A single Slice is made up of three settings:
1. The Slice account: If you have several accounts, you can select which account this Slice will search.
2. The Slice title: The name of the Slice -- this will be displayed in the drop-down option search box.
3. The Slice URL masks: The URL patterns that the search results must match (or not match, in terms of the Anti-URL
mask).
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What is a Slice URL Mask?
This is the most technical aspect of the Slice Search Box. A Slice URL Mask is really a set of
rules that say, "In order for a search result to qualify as being in this Slice, it must match one of these
lines." So, for example, if you have a web site at http://www.nhl.com and you want to define a Slice called
"NHL Players", here's what the settings might look like:
The Slice account: NHL.com (http://www.nhl.com)
The Slice title: NHL Players
The Slice URL masks: http://www.nhl.com/players/
What this means is that, if someone selects this Slice from the search box, it will search the NHL.com account. However,
only results that have a URL that match the Slice URL mask above will be shown. As you can see, it is helpful to have
your web site content divided into separate folders. However, it is not necessary. You can also reference filename
prefixes or naming conventions in the Slice URL mask, instead of folder/directory names.
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What is a Slice Anti- URL Mask?
This is the exact opposite of a URL Mask. It says, "If any search results have a URL that
matches one of these lines, then do not display it in the search results." Most people would not need to use an
Anti-URL Mask, however, it is just another way to refine the search within any defined Slice.
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How do I set up my Slice Search configuration?
First, you must be logged in. Second, click on the Search Box Options tab. Next, click on
the Slice Search Box Configuration menu option.
If this is the first time you're defining your Slices, you will see two slices. This Site and The Web. If you're
defining some new slices, rename This Site to Entire Site. Do this by highlighting (clicking) This Site in the main
Slice Search list box. Next, scroll down to the Title of the Selected Slice and replace the text with Entire Site.
Now click the Update Title button. Notice how the main Slice Search list box has been updated.
Now, to add Slices, click the Add New Slice link, located to the right of the main Slice Search list box. Notice how a
new Slice titled: [New Category] is now in the Slice Search list box. Highlight (click) the new Slice.
Make sure that you select the appropriate account for this slice. You should see a listing of your accounts along with
The Web (an optional selection if you wish to keep a web search function within your search box). Select your desired
account.
Next, type in a title for this Slice. This is how it will appear on your drop-down option list on your search box.
Next, type in the URL Mask(s). To learn what a URL mask is, please read the answer to the question: What is a Slice
URL Mask? If you leave this field blank, it will be equivalent to searching your entire account. Next, type in
any Anti-URL Mask(s) if any.
To preview what your search box will look like, click the Preview button located to the right of the Slice Search list
box. When you're satisfied, click the Update button located near the preview button. To cancel all changes, click
the Cancel button.
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Do I have to change my search box code on my site?
If you have the JavaScript or hyperlink version of the search box code entered on your web site, then
the answer is no. Your search box will be updated immediately.
However, if you're using the HTML version of the search box, you must go to the Search Box Options > Use Search Box HTML
Source area to obtain your new search box code. If you make ANY changes to your Slice Search box, it is required
that you update your search box HTML code. (Note to advanced HTML authors: The <select csid> code is updated
completely and dynamically whenever you make changes to your Slice options [even if you just move them up and down throughout
the Slice Search list box]).
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