SharePoint Online provides a powerful search engine that enables users to quickly find the information they need. However, the quality of search results depends largely on how well the site is optimized for search. In this blog post, we’ll explore some best practices for optimizing your SharePoint Online site for better search results and also discuss PowerShell scripts that can help you achieve this.

Use Managed Metadata:

Managed metadata is a hierarchical collection of centrally managed terms that can be used to tag content in SharePoint Online. By using managed metadata, you can ensure that your content is consistently labeled, which can improve the accuracy of search results. PowerShell script can be used to create and manage term sets and terms.

Customize Search Refiners:

Search refiners are used to filter search results based on specific criteria such as file type, author, or date. By customizing search refiners, you can make it easier for users to find the information they need. PowerShell script can be used to create custom refiners based on managed metadata.

Optimize Page Titles and Descriptions:

The page titles and descriptions are used by the search engine to index the content of the page. By optimizing these elements with relevant keywords, you can improve the visibility of your pages in search results. PowerShell script can be used to update page titles and descriptions.

Use Friendly URLs:

Friendly URLs are human-readable web addresses that are easy to remember and type. By using friendly URLs, you can make it easier for users to find your content and improve the visibility of your site in search results. PowerShell script can be used to set friendly URLs for pages and sites.

Enable Searchable PDFs:

PDF files are a common format for documents, but they are not always searchable by default. By enabling the searchability of PDF files, you can ensure that their content is included in search results. PowerShell script can be used to enable PDF search in SharePoint Online.

By following these best practices and using PowerShell scripts, you can optimize your SharePoint Online site for better search results. PowerShell scripts can help you automate the process of managing and optimizing your site for search, making it easier and more efficient to achieve your search optimization goals.

Adnan, a distinguished professional, boasts an impressive track record as a Microsoft MVP, having achieved this prestigious recognition for the eighth consecutive year since 2015. With an extensive career spanning over 18 years, Adnan has honed his expertise in various domains, notably excelling in SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, the .Net Platform, and Microsoft BI. Presently, he holds the esteemed position of Senior Microsoft Consultant at Olive + Goose. Notably, Adnan served as the MCT Regional Lead for the Pakistan Chapter from 2012 to 2017, showcasing his leadership and commitment to fostering growth within the tech community. His journey in the realm of SharePoint spans 14 years, during which he has undertaken diverse projects involving both intranet and internet solutions for both private and government sectors. His impact has transcended geographical boundaries, leaving a mark on projects in the United States and the Gulf region, often collaborating with Fortune 500 companies. Beyond his roles, Adnan is a dedicated educator, sharing his insights and knowledge as a trainer. He also passionately advocates for technology, frequently engaging with the community through speaking engagements in various forums. His multifaceted contributions exemplify his dedication to the tech field and his role in driving its evolution.

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