Overview
Enhance the user experience on MakerWorld by adding a “Follow Search” feature. This feature allows users to save and follow specific search terms related to their interests (e.g., gadgets, vehicles, or tools) and receive notifications or see updates when new models matching those terms are added. The goal is to help users discover new, relevant designs without needing to manually repeat searches, making it easier to find models that enhance their ownership experience or solve real-world problems.
User Story
As a 3D printing enthusiast, I want to follow specific search terms related to my gadgets or interests so that I can be informed of new 3D printing models as they become available, saving me time and helping me discover useful designs I might otherwise miss.
Example Use Case
My Scenario: A user purchases a 2024 GMC Sierra truck and searches for models on MakerWorld using the term “GMC Sierra.” They find and print some designs but forget to check back regularly. Months later, they come back and search for something more specific, ‘a keychain’ and in the process discover a cupholder model (2024 GMC Sierra Hydroflask Cup Holder) that solves a problem (e.g., water bottle instability). Had they followed the “GMC Sierra” search, they would have been notified of this model sooner.
Outcome: Following a search term ensures users are proactively informed of new models, reducing missed opportunities and enhancing their ability to find practical or enjoyable 3D prints.
Requirements
- Search Term Following:
- Users can save specific search terms (e.g., “GMC Sierra,” “keychain,” “camera accessory”) to follow.
- The system stores these terms in the user’s profile for easy access.
- Users can add or remove followed search terms at any time.
- New Model Notifications:
- When a new model is uploaded to the platform and matches a followed search term, the user is notified.
- Notifications can be delivered via:
- In-platform notification center (visible when the user logs into the platform).
- Email alerts (optional, configurable in user settings).
- Bambu Studio/Handy push notifications.
- Notifications include a link to the new model and a brief description or preview.
- User Interface for Followed Searches:
- A dedicated section in the user’s profile or dashboard displays all followed search terms.
- For each followed term, show a list of new models added since the last user interaction or a specified time frame (e.g., last 30 days).
- Allow users to click a followed search term to view all matching models (new and existing).
- Search Matching Logic:
- The system matches new models to followed search terms using keyword-based search logic, similar to the platform’s existing search functionality.
- Matches should account for synonyms or related terms (e.g., “GMC Sierra” could also match “Sierra 2024” or “GMC truck”).
- Allow users to refine followed searches with filters (e.g., category: automotive, material type, or free vs. paid models), if supported by the platform.
- User Control and Customization:
- Users can toggle notifications on or off for each followed search term.
- Users can set the frequency of notifications (e.g., immediate, daily digest, weekly digest).
- Users can pause or archive followed searches without deleting them.
(I tried to look to see if there were any previous requests like this to +1, but if there are any I either didn’t see them or I my search abilities are lacking.)
Would you also find this to be a great addition to MakerWorld?
- Yes
- No