In our last usability research, Aliuser confirmed that users had a very strong tendency to search products with photo images. We also discussed casually how photo images were handled in Photo Talks  in May.  Alibaba.com (HKSE 1688) is now developing its image search and has it first phase online.

To be more accurate, the image search does not let users search for product images, it’s more like a directory search. Unlike Google or Yahoo, users would not be able to see an image tab on the search bar and won’t be able to find the SERP with loads of product photos.

Instead, users will see an array of related product images that match the keyword at the bottom of pages after doing a keyword search. Once users click on a matched photo, it will lead to an image index page or directory whereas 20 images will be displayed.

According to the release, the first phase covers 288 Product keywords  only and the B2B company will devote more efforts to furnishing its tools. Aliuser sees it as a nice move while in the meantime, Aliuser thinks that the image match tool requires more hard work and time to make it perfect!!

Aliuser suggests the project team spending more effort in improving its search relevance and the way it presents the product images. For example, users should be able to choose how many products can be displayed at one time, pagination can be kept more closely with the products on the result pages and having the related photo images at the bottom of each page may not be very helpful since users tends to ignore them anyway.

On the pro side,  the UI helps users and robots to find product through numeric figures e.g. 3-wheel bikes, 4 ports USB hubs etc.

Want to learn how to make use of the image search?  You can visit Alibaba image match  

 

Alibaba Search image

Alibaba Search image

 

 

 

 

 

Related Articles:

 

    Bookmark and Share