screenshot of Lulo app for mobile

Defining seach in edge computing

Redesigning the search experience in IBM's Edge Application Manager.

illustration of woman in front of IBM edge application manager

Background

Search is integral to IEAM

IBM's Edge Application Manager (IEAM) enables developers to manage edge computing environments, where data is processed closer to its source, reducing latency and improving performance.

Search functionality is critical for developers using IEAM, allowing them to efficiently monitor nodes, modify environments, and deploy policies. This case study explores the creation of an intuitive search experience that simplifies navigation within this complex tool.

Comparative Analysis

We studied precedents

Our research into advanced filtering and multi-variable search revealed key principles:

  • Users search iteratively by continuously refining parameters as they explore results
  • Multiple filter entry points provide intuitive ways to refine searches
  • Customized filter presentation works better than uniform approaches, with each category needing its own tailored interface

Low Fidelity Exploration

We experimented to see what doesn't work

We created low-fidelity prototypes to stress-test various search components using our IEAM variables. Each option had its unique benefits, so we collaborated with the UX Research team to test and make a data-driven decision.

Solution

Final Anatomy

From our research and testing, we created a pattern consiting of three parts: a filter menu, a search bar, and a display bar.
three screenshots of the Lulo mobile app against a pale green background

Filter menu 01

To accommodate a potentially infinite number of filter categories, users can refine searches through:

  • Dropdowns for categorical filters
  • Map-based search for location-based filters
  • A numerical sliding scale for quantitative filters
  • A miscellaneous "More filters" button modal for less frequently used filter categories
  • +62.5% engagement increase

Search bar 02

The search bar works alongside the filter menu, allowing users to search by category or specific node name — offering flexibility in how they refine results.

  • +52.00% CTR
  • -50% time spent completing task

Display bar 03

The display bar tracks applied filters from both the search bar and filter menu, displaying them as dismissible tags.

The display bar also employs AND/OR filtering. When two or more filters are applied, users have the ability to sift through different parameters with a "match any/match all" dropdown that appears, furthering their ability for a nuanced search experience across generally large datasets.