How to Optimize Dropdown Search and Improve Multi-Field Search Performance in Bubble

Tips
1

Hello everyone, this is IF-DEV, your trusted Bubble development agency! :blush:

Today, I’m here to share some practical tips on implementing dropdown search functionality and optimizing multi-field search performance in Bubble projects.

:one: Enabling Searchable Dropdowns

For a simple and effective solution, you can use the MultiSelect Dropdown Plugin. This plugin allows users to search within a dropdown menu by typing text directly into the dropdown. While it’s called “MultiSelect,” you can adjust the settings to allow single selection only.

:point_right: Link to the plugin documentation: Select2

This is an excellent way to combine dropdown selection with search functionality for a smoother user experience.

:two: Optimizing Multi-Field Search

2-1. Add a ‘Search Keywords’ Field

If you’re currently using Merge With to search across multiple fields (e.g., Title and Content), this can cause unnecessary workflows and slow performance. Instead, we recommend creating a ‘Search Keywords’ field when saving your data:

  • Combine all searchable fields (e.g., Title + Content) into one “Search Keywords” field.
  • Later, use the contains filter to run searches against this single field.

This approach simplifies your search logic and speeds up your application significantly.

2-2. Optimize Data Structure

If you suspect that your site is running slow due to heavy Do a Search operations, here’s what you can do:

  • Check if any heavy fields are being loaded unnecessarily in your Repeating Group.
  • Divide your data into lighter and heavier datasets, such as Reviews[Search] (light version) and Reviews[Details] (detailed version).
    Screen Shot 2025-01-08 at 5.38.22 AM

This way, you only load the minimal data needed for searches and pull in the full details when users view a specific item.

We hope these tips help you enhance your app’s performance and user experience! :rocket:
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment.

:globe_with_meridians: if-dev.io | :e-mail: support@if-dev.io | :speech_balloon: KakaoTalk Inquiry

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