The search algorithm of bol
On this page, you can read how bol makes your items discoverable, how the item order works, and how you can improve the findability of your items.
The main factors for search results via bol and their order (ranking)
- To find relevant items, we first try to understand what the customer is actually looking for. This involves using various functionalities, such as: determining the category of a search term, automatic correction of spelling errors, using a synonym list to include similar terms in the search results, and normalizing language use. Additionally, the following are removed: conjugations, singular and plural forms, suffixes for diminutives, and other similar adjustments.
- The search algorithm not only checks the content of items but also assesses if items are relevant in other ways. For example, a customer might use the term ‘water bottle’ for their search query, but then see items in the ‘water bottles’ category, even if the term is not explicitly in the content.
- Finally, anonymous interaction data is also used to assess whether search results are relevant for a search query. We also check for fraudulent interactions, for example, if they originate from clickbots or clickfarms.
Example 1
The customer searches for 'wireless speakers'. The customer will then also see results that contain the term 'wireless speaker’.
Example 2
The customer searches for 'drinking bottle'. The customer will then also see results that contain the term 'drinking bottles' or 'small drinking bottle'.
What you can do to improve your findability
- Use the bol search trends. If you want to know what customers typically search for, you can consult the search trends in your seller account. It's wise to always check these when improving your content and title. A keyword that seems logical to you might be different from the terms or combinations that customers actually use to search. Use keywords that you believe are relevant, but don't overdo it. As described earlier, we ensure that spelling errors, synonyms, conjugations, and diminutives are automatically included in the search results. Therefore, these do not need to be added explicitly to the title, for example. An overly long title does not significantly increase visitors to your items. In fact, it can even be perceived as annoying or irrelevant by customers. You can find more about bol search trends here.
- The item is assigned to the correct product category
- The content is fully completed (item features/attributes & images) and interesting for the customer (matches search query, good price, good delivery time, etc.).
It is also good to know that new items need at least 2 days before they are easily discoverable. Are you adjusting the content of an item that is already online? Then it takes at least 1 day for these changes to be implemented.