A designer often faces the challenges of incorporating data sorting and data filtering options within a mobile application design. These options are inevitably important for users to narrow down their search, and get relevant results within no time. Effective options are the ones, letting users go through a painless search, and reach their expected results without much effort.
There are a few designing ways in which you can enable best in the class filtering and sorting options integrated within your app.
Filtering through a partial onscreen slider
Herein, the filters slide over and overlap the original screen, as soon as the filters are tapped. They lay over the actual screen, and you can close it anytime you want. There are many apps already using it. However, for examples, check out the Etsy, or Amazon app.
Where it is useful?
Such design can be used when there are not too many filtering options to deal with. It is possibly the best way to display search results efficiently.
Filtering through a full screen onscreen slider
Very similar to the first design, with the only difference of filters occupying the entire screen by completely replacing the original screen, as soon as they are tapped. They appear and take the place of actual screen, making room for an expanded real estate, for filters. There are many apps already using it. However, for examples, check out the Kayak, or AirBnB app.
Where it is useful?
Such design can be used when there are many filtering options to deal with, because of more space available. It is possibly the best way not to let the users distract from the context.
Sorting
Sorting is not confided by any constraints like filtering. It does not limit users with the search results being shown up. Most popular and basic sorting options are - alphabetic order, reviews and ratings, and price. However, you can insert sorting options of your own, changing the way results are displayed. As examples, you can check out Kayak or TripAdvisor apps that uses a slideover approach in sorting, while HostelWorld app uses a full screen approach in sorting.
Where it is useful?
Sorting is important if you want your app to work on extremes. This is like finding out something with the cheapest price, or costliest price. Or, something with best reviews, or worst reviews.
