# Finding Products

This guide covers all the ways you can find a specific product in the catalog — from search tricks to barcode scanning.

## Using the Search Bar

The search bar is the fastest way to find what you need.

### Basic Search

1. Click the **search bar** at the top of the catalog.
2. Start typing. You can search by:
   * **Product name** — e.g., "office chair" or "wireless mouse."
   * **SKU / Item code** — e.g., "SKU-12345."
   * **Part number** — If your company uses part numbers.
   * **Keywords** — e.g., "red," "large," "organic."
3. Results start appearing as you type.
4. Click a result to view the product details.

### Search Tips

* **Be specific when you can.** Searching "HP LaserJet toner" is better than just "toner" if you know the brand.
* **Keep it short if you're not sure.** "laser toner" will cast a wider net than a full product name.
* **Try different terms.** If "notebook" doesn't find what you want, try "laptop" or "computer."
* **Use the SKU** if you have it — it's the most precise search you can do.
* **Don't worry about capitalization.** The search is not case-sensitive — "CHAIR" and "chair" give the same results.

## Scanning Barcodes

If you have a barcode scanner connected:

1. Click into the **search bar** (or make sure it's focused).
2. Scan the barcode on the product or packaging.
3. The barcode number is entered automatically and the matching product appears.
4. Click the result to view it.

**If the barcode doesn't work:**

* Make sure the search bar is focused (click on it first).
* Try scanning again — hold the scanner steady and about 6-8 inches from the barcode.
* If the barcode is damaged, type the number printed below the barcode manually.
* The item may not be in your catalog — ask your manager.

## Browsing by Category

If you're not sure exactly what you're looking for, browsing by category is a great approach.

1. Open the **Catalog** from the sidebar.
2. Use the **category list** on the left side to explore.
3. Click a category to see its products.
4. Click a subcategory to narrow further.
5. Browse the results and click any product that interests you.

> **Tip:** This is especially useful when a customer says something like "I need cleaning supplies" but doesn't know the specific product.

## Using Filters to Narrow Results

After searching or selecting a category, you can use **filters** to narrow down the list:

* **Price range** — Set a minimum and/or maximum price.
* **In stock only** — Hide out-of-stock items.
* **Brand / Vendor** — Show only products from a specific brand.
* **Attributes** — Filter by size, colour, material, or other product attributes.

### How to Apply Filters

1. Look for the **Filter** panel or button (usually above or to the side of the product list).
2. Select the filters you want.
3. Products update automatically.
4. Remove filters by clicking the **X** on individual filter chips or clicking **Clear All**.

## When You Can't Find a Product

If your search comes up empty:

| What to Check  | Why                                                                           |
| -------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Spelling       | Even small typos can affect results                                           |
| Different name | The product might be listed under a different name than you expect            |
| SKU or barcode | Try a more specific identifier                                                |
| Category       | Browse the category where the product should be — maybe the name is different |
| Availability   | The product might be out of stock and hidden from the catalog                 |
| Catalog scope  | Your catalog might not include that product — ask your manager                |

> **Tip:** If a customer asks for something you can't find, don't just say "we don't have it." Check with a colleague or manager first — the product might be listed under a different name or in a different category.

## Next Steps

Found what you're looking for? Head to [Product Details](/end-user-guide/browsing-the-catalog/product-details.md) to learn about pricing, stock, and variations.


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