Angel Tsvetkov (Progress Software) asked a question.
Search functionality is a crucial component of any content management system. However, the way companies use search can differ depending on their needs. In some cases, a simple search across a specific list of items may be enough. But for more complex requirements, a more sophisticated approach may be necessary. Regardless of the complexity, having a strong search functionality is essential for any CMS to be effective.
We are introducing changes in the upcoming weeks to improve the out-of-the-box search service that is part of Sitefinity Cloud. The new search service will be based on Lucene and will provide an unlimited number of search indexes and storage (up to 250GB) for them. This will be a significant improvement from the current search service, which was based on Azure Search and had a limitation of 15 search indexes. With the new search service, this limit will be removed.
In addition to the basic search service, Sitefinity Cloud also offers an Advanced Search add-on for customers who require faceted search or search scoring profiles that are natively supported in Sitefinity but require Azure Search. This add-on provides 3x (50) search indexes than it used to, which is a significant improvement for customers who require more advanced search functionality.
Sitefinity Cloud also allows customers to integrate their search service that suits their needs better. This is a great option for companies that have specific search requirements or have already invested in a search service that they would like to continue using.
Overall, the changes that we are introducing will provide you with a much-improved basic search service and the option to purchase an Advanced Search add-on for more advanced search functionality. Additionally, customers can always bring and integrate their own search service if they have specific requirements.
@Angel Tsvetkov (Progress Software)
Thanks for the heads up and the great news.
Is there any transition period to move existing azure-search to Lucene search to keep things ootb ?
And for sites wanting to remain on Azure Search, is there any development/configuration change required? Or will this just be a licensing issue?
Jochem
Great questions, @Jochem Bökkers (enso DX) ,
The main execution objective for this transition is to be extremely smooth with no destruction for the customer. To achieve that, we will execute it gradually in batches. The first batch of customers will receive additional information over email by the end of May. The batches are determined based on detailed analyses of the customer's subscriptions and we will start with those that will be less affected.
In the main scenario, this transition doesn't involve any changes on the customer's side. For the customers, that have a custom code based on the Azure Search API, we will provide further guidance and collaboration.
@Angel Tsvetkov (Progress Software)
Quick and to the point with only good news - as always :)