> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.storefront.co.za/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.storefront.co.za/storefront/roadmap/from-sql-to-solr-a-smarter-search-experience.md).

# From SQL to Solr – A Smarter Search Experience

<table><thead><tr><th>Release Type</th><th>Effective Date</th><th width="495.484375">Impact</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Major functional upgrade</td><td>Beta launch from 15 to 22 May 2025</td><td><p></p><ul><li><strong>User Experience:</strong> Significantly improved with faster, more responsive search interactions (no page reloads, suggested results).</li><li><strong>Performance:</strong> Improved search speed and scalability, especially noticeable on large product catalogues.</li><li><strong>Developer Flexibility:</strong> Enables greater customisation and frontend innovation via API-driven architecture.</li><li><strong>No Downtime Expected:</strong> The transition is seamless and will not require users or merchants to make any changes.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>

<figure><img src="/files/VumMYh9bkrjVm9rbpNtv" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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**🔄 What Changed:**

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* Replaced the legacy SQL-based search with a [Solr-powered](https://solr.apache.org/features.html) search engine.
* Introduced real-time suggested search terms to assist users as they type.
* Implemented Ajax-based search result loading, eliminating full page reloads.
* Aligned the search functionality with our ongoing headless architecture transition, enabling API-driven, decoupled frontend capabilities.
* Laid the groundwork for future enhancements like search filtering, personalisation, and AI-driven ranking.

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**✅  Key Enhancements:**

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**1. Suggested Search**

Users will receive real-time search suggestions as they type, dramatically improving the speed and relevance of product discovery.

**2. Ajax-Based Results (No Page Reloads)**

Search results are now fetched dynamically without a full page reload, offering a fast, seamless user experience—a core benefit of our headless transition.

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**🧠  Why** [**Solr**](https://solr.apache.org/)**?**

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Solr is a robust, enterprise-grade search engine that enhances:

* Performance & Scalability: Handles large product catalogs with ease
* Relevance & Speed: Delivers accurate, lightning-fast results
* Flexibility: Supports future enhancements like AI ranking, advanced filtering, and personalisation