Search Page Renewal

Overview

Lancers is one of Japan's largest freelancing platforms, and the search page is the primary entry point for clients looking to hire freelancers. The existing search page had a complex information architecture that had become difficult to navigate as the platform grew. Users struggled to find the right talent quickly, leading to high drop-off rates.

I was tasked with redesigning the search experience — with an aggressive two-week deadline that demanded ruthless prioritization and efficient execution.

Process

• Analytics deep-dive — Used Google Analytics to map actual user behavior: which filters were used most, where users dropped off, which search result types got the most clicks, and common search patterns.
• Content prioritization — Identified a gap between what the page surfaced and what users actually needed. Many prominent UI elements had very low engagement, while high-value filters were hidden in secondary menus.
• Rapid wireframing — Sketched multiple layout concepts in the first two days, focusing on surfacing high-usage filters and simplifying the results layout. Reviewed with stakeholders to align on direction quickly.
• UI design & handoff — Designed the final UI with clean typography, clearer visual hierarchy, and streamlined filter interactions. Worked closely with engineers on feasibility within the tight timeline.
• Launch & monitoring — Coordinated with the engineering team for a smooth launch. Set up dashboards to monitor key metrics post-launch.

Results

Despite the compressed timeline, the redesign delivered meaningful improvements:

• Improved search-to-hire conversion by surfacing the most relevant filters and content based on analytics data
• Simplified the visual hierarchy, reducing cognitive load and making it easier for clients to scan results
• Completed the full redesign — from research to launch — in just 2 weeks, demonstrating effective rapid iteration
• Established a data-first design approach that the team continued to use for subsequent feature work