AFS has released a new core search functionality which will allow students
to search by geo-location and view those results on a map, as well as
through a more traditional list view.
Pushing the boundaries of search
As AFS continues to attract more users and properties, additions to the
existing search function were the most requested feature at our recent
student focus groups. The new search is based on Elasticsearch, which
enables us to deliver results back to our users within milliseconds.
The main benefits will be to enable a more accurate and user-friendly
search, including by
- City
- Street name
- Postcode
- Student area
- University building
- Landmark
With the number of properties listed on AFS continuing to increase, this
will be of particular benefit in larger towns and cities, enabling students
to quickly find an exact match for their requirements. It is likely to
result in even more enquiries for our partners, as they are more precisely
matched with relevant tenants, regardless of the volume of property
listings in a particular area.
View on map
Search results will be also be displayed on a map as well as in a list
view. This feature was also introduced following student feedback, allowing
users who prefer this option to view properties and their proximity to
relevant amenities and areas of interest.
Continuous improvement
This latest release is just one of the many on our journey of continuous
improvement. Since 2018 we have consistently launched new features to
further improve our website and service. It is one of main reasons AFS has
benefited from a dramatic increase in the website traffic (40%) and
enquiries (17%) in 2021.
Throughout this process we have been customer led, using data and
real-world insight to prioritise areas for improvement. If you would like
to take the opportunity to give us some feedback on AFS and help shape our
strategy, you can do so here.
https://goupinsight.typeform.com/to/GkGnLjUw
