Move Global Search Group and Project filters to left sidebar
Problem to Solve
Our current filters in Global Search are within a left rail/sidebar, with the exception of the Group and Project filters. Having filters spread out across the page makes it more difficult to manage and understand what is selected. As we work to redesign the Global Search results page to better support the additional filters we have added (and will continue to add), it makes sense for us to relocate the Group and Project filters to the left sidebar as well in order to maintain a consistent location for all filters/selections.
Research
Problem Validation
In &8269 (closed) users expressed how filters are spread out on the result page, making it challenging to review and utilize the filters to refine their search.
Solution Validation
In https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/ux-research/-/issues/1959, we tested an updated layout of the results page, where all of the filters were grouped together on the left sidebar/rail. This tested well with participants, as there was a clear understanding of where they could refine their results.
We also tested a couple different layout options for the search header with moving the Group and Project filters to the left sidebar ( https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/ux-research/-/issues/1959), to identify any effects in participants ability to review results or recognize the left sidebar/rail filters. Overall, the participants were pretty evenly split between the two layouts, with a slight favor for Version A (search field aligned above results). Most participants mentioned either option working well for them, with the main benefits for Version A being scannability (referencing search query aligned with results), modifying searches (shortening distance from results to field), and visual preference of the search field aligned with results.
Proposal
Relocate the Group and Project filters to the top of the left sidebar/rail (as they are highest in hierarchy and have a direct impact on the options below).
Implementation Guide
TBD based on changes in #382328 (closed)
Advanced Search information change covered in #366230
Results information bar is covered in #361579