When developing a web application, the ability to search for and filter data is essential for enhancing user experience. Ransack is a popular Ruby gem that simplifies searching and filtering ActiveRecord collections. In this article, we'll walk through the process of creating a search page using Ransack and routing the results back to the same page, making it easier for users to find the information they need without leaving the page.
Understanding the Problem
Imagine you have a Rails application displaying a list of products. Users want to search through these products based on different attributes like name, price, or category. By default, when you submit a search, it can be confusing for users if the results lead them to a different page. Our goal is to maintain a seamless experience by allowing users to search and display results on the same page.
Setting Up the Scenario
Let's assume you have a Rails application with a Product model, and you want to implement a search feature using Ransack. Below is an example of what the original code might look like before implementing Ransack for searching.
Original Code
class ProductsController < ApplicationController
def index
@products = Product.all
end
end
View Template (index.html.erb)
<% @products.each do |product| %>
<div>
<h3><%= product.name %></h3>
<p>Price: <%= product.price %></p>
<p>Category: <%= product.category %></p>
</div>
<% end %>
Implementing Ransack for Search
Step 1: Adding Ransack to Your Gemfile
First, you need to include Ransack in your Gemfile. Open the Gemfile and add the following line:
gem 'ransack'
After updating the Gemfile, run the following command to install it:
bundle install
Step 2: Updating the Controller
Modify your ProductsController to enable Ransack searching:
class ProductsController < ApplicationController
def index
@q = Product.ransack(params[:q])
@products = @q.result(distinct: true)
end
end
Step 3: Creating a Search Form in the View
Now, update your index.html.erb file to include a search form:
<%= search_form_for @q do |f| %>
<div>
<%= f.label :name_cont, "Search by name:" %>
<%= f.text_field :name_cont %>
<%= f.label :price_gteq, "Minimum Price:" %>
<%= f.number_field :price_gteq %>
<%= f.label :category_eq, "Category:" %>
<%= f.select :category_eq, Product.pluck(:category).uniq, include_blank: true %>
<%= f.submit "Search" %>
</div>
<% end %>
<% @products.each do |product| %>
<div>
<h3><%= product.name %></h3>
<p>Price: <%= product.price %></p>
<p>Category: <%= product.category %></p>
</div>
<% end %>
Step 4: Enabling Pagination (Optional)
For a better user experience, consider adding pagination to your search results using the kaminari gem. Add it to your Gemfile:
gem 'kaminari'
And update your controller:
@products = @q.result(distinct: true).page(params[:page]).per(10)
Unique Insights and Benefits
By implementing a search feature with Ransack, you provide users with:
- Improved Usability: Users can easily find products without being redirected to a new page.
- Enhanced Performance: Ransack handles queries efficiently, returning results quickly.
- Flexible Filtering: Users can combine different search criteria to refine their results.
Example
Imagine a user searching for "laptop" under a specific price. With this setup, they can enter the search term, set the price limit, and click "Search." The filtered products will appear on the same page, allowing them to browse without interruption.
Conclusion
Creating a search page using Ransack and routing results to the same page greatly enhances the user experience in your Rails application. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up a powerful and intuitive search feature that keeps users engaged.
Additional Resources
By integrating Ransack into your application, you not only improve functionality but also create a user-friendly interface that fosters engagement. Happy coding!
