Implementing a Solr Query Suggestor in Sitecore

 📘 Introduction

In modern digital experiences, search suggestions significantly enhance user engagement by offering real-time query completions. If you're using Sitecore with Solr, you can implement a powerful auto-suggest feature using Solr's SuggestComponent. This blog walks you through the process of setting up a Solr query suggestor and integrating it with Sitecore.

🧱 What is Solr's SuggestComponent?

Solr's SuggestComponent is a search component that provides auto-complete or type-ahead functionality. It uses a dictionary built from indexed documents to return suggestions based on partial user input.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Implementation

1. 🔧 Configure Solr

Navigate to your Solr core's configuration directory (e.g., solr/server/solr/<core_name>/conf) and open solrconfig.xml.

2. 🔄 Rebuild the Suggest Index

After restarting Solr, trigger a suggest index build:

    http://localhost:8983/solr//suggest?suggest.build=true

🧪 Testing the Suggestor

You can test your suggestor directly in the browser:

    http://localhost:8983/solr/your_core/suggest?suggest.q=hel

✅ Conclusion

Implementing a Solr query suggestor in Sitecore is a powerful way to enhance your site's search experience. Whether you're using SXA or building a custom solution, Solr's SuggestComponent offers flexibility and performance.