Homepage search box not link
homepage-search-box-not-link
Home page: search box, not a search link. Advanced search is not the default (most people use one or two terms; advanced as default increases mistakes). Tiny/single-page sites may omit search.
Description
USWDS home pages provide a search box, not a search link that sends people elsewhere before they can type. Advanced search is not the default because most people use one or two terms and advanced-as-default increases mistakes. Tiny or single-page sites may omit search. A home that only links away to search, or that opens on advanced search, fails the pattern.
When to use
Placing search on a site home where people expect an immediate query field.
Not when
Tiny single-page sites that omit search, or advanced search forced as the default.
Agent hint
Put a simple search field on the home page; do not default to advanced search.
Home offers a search field (unless the site is tiny/single-page and omits search); default search is simple, not advanced.
Home search is only a link to another page, or advanced search is the default.
Citations
USWDS — Search
https://designsystem.digital.gov/components/search/