3 Ways Coupa’s Development Team Designs Effective Search Functionality
Effective search functionality is critical to enhancing Business Spend Management (BSM), especially during economic downturns when supply chain issues or travel expenses could play major roles in a business’s success. However, not all searches surface the most relevant results or provide a user-centric experience.
For many engineers who want to design effective search, they know that inadequate functionality can lead to frustrating user experiences, poor purchasing decisions, and even compliance issues. So, how can engineers make search functionality more effective for BSM professionals?
Here are three considerations for designing effective search that our development team uses at Coupa.
1. Start with good data
The key to effective search functionality starts with rich, high-quality, current data.
Rich data
When designing search functionality, it’s important to include clean-fielded, basic data, like product names and prices. But more effective search happens when you layer in rich data, such as detailed descriptions, images, part numbers, manufacturer information, and more. For example, if a person wants to search by brand, part number, or use, that information must be part of the data. If it’s not, users may encounter irrelevant search results — or, worse, no search results at all.
High-quality data
Like many things, “garbage in” leads to “garbage out.” It does not help the search experience to add large volumes of poor, irrelevant data. For instance, if you have a list of items with accurate titles but unstructured or unclear descriptions, it might be better to avoid including those descriptions. The information should also be relevant and specific to the data. For example, generic placeholder text — like TBD, N/A, or office supply — in fields rarely adds value.
Current data
When users search, they want current information instead of outdated results. Many search algorithms are even biased toward more recent information. While this is a balance with performance considerations, keeping information curated so it is up to date and actively indexed makes for more effective search.
2. Use best-in-class search technology
After years of continuous improvement, search technology is more robust and effective than ever. Doug Cutting originally wrote Lucene in 1999, which was his fifth search engine. Today, Lucene is the foundation for both Elasticsearch
and SOLR, as well as a wealth of other search engine technologies. At Coupa, we use Elasticsearch as our search technology foundation.
Here are several things search technology does that a traditional relational database does not do.
Tokenize text into words
People rarely know the full title or phrase for what they are searching. Instead, they usually expect to type a few words and find what they need. Tokenization breaks all data into words so that can happen, and it must work with every language. At Coupa, that’s why we use Unicode Text Segmentation
to support global companies.
Understand the language
Modern search technology understands the formal and informal nuances of languages across the world. For example, a person might type a plural or a singular word, even when they likely expect to find both in search results. Similarly, a person might accent a word or not, regardless of whether the formal language says it should be accented. Still, they probably want both versions to appear in search results. At Coupa, our shopping search
supports over 30 different language models.
Technology that handles mistakes
End users make mistakes. They mistype or misspell. Search technology can check near variations to find matches. At Coupa, for instance, we use Elasticsearch to find spelling equivalents of terms that users may spell incorrectly in their search queries.
3. Iterate, iterate, iterate
There is no silver bullet with search. The best search comes from constant improvement. Google, for instance, changes their algorithm over 500 times per year. Similarly, our development team at Coupa finds a balance between algorithm changes being too conservative and slow to change versus making too many changes too quickly, which can disrupt customer satisfaction. Here are a few ways that we iterate on our approach to effective search.
Analyze the data
Search is extremely data-sensitive. An algorithm that works well on some data may work poorly on other data. That’s why it’s so important to analyze the data and understand its nuances. At Coupa, we analyze customer data and community data to do this. That data is then put to use in our AI-based classifiers to make the search results most relevant for a given customer's users and products.
Monitor user behavior
Search is ultimately about connecting a real-life user to search technology. To do that, it’s imperative to fully understand user behavior to achieve the right balance in search functionality. Our method of doing this at Coupa is to use our internally developed customer tool, Content Insights, to understand the searches being run and how effective they are.
Tune for probability, not perfection
There is often no "right" answer in search since the exact same search might mean one thing to one user and something else to another. Ultimately, tuning search for user behavior is a probability game — you have to engineer search functionality to provide the most relevant or likely results that address a user’s search intent.
Effective search is a journey and a never-ending one at that, but if users can quickly and easily find what they are searching for, they will thank you for it.
As a Senior Product Manager, I’m fortunate to be at the crossroads of technology, leadership, and strategy. My focus is on harnessing the power of AI-driven solutions to transform business spend management. This journey is about more than just implementing cutting-edge technology — it’s about creating meaningful solutions that make a real difference for businesses and their people. Throughout my career, I’ve discovered that the key to true innovation is a deep understanding of business needs and user experiences. AI is revolutionizing business spend management, and its potential is immense — not just in its technology but in how it’s strategically applied with leadership, collaboration, and real-world impact. AI: A Game Changer for Business Spend Management AI has the ability to revolutionize how businesses approach financial management. It goes beyond automating repetitive tasks — it empowers organizations to make smarter, more data-driven decisions that align with their strategic goals. By analyzing vast amounts of data in real-time, AI uncovers valuable spending patterns, predicts future trends, and provides actionable insights that can shape success. What excites me most is that AI doesn’t just help businesses save money — it enables them to strategically invest their resources for greater impact. AI creates opportunities for businesses to allocate spend with purpose, whether for innovation, optimization, or securing a brighter future. This transformation is what fuels my passion — helping organizations become more efficient and focused on long-term success. Bridging Engineering and Business Management In my role, I have the privilege of bridging the technical brilliance of engineering with the strategic vision of business management. I work closely with engineering teams to transform complex technical concepts into intuitive, user-friendly solutions that solve real-world business challenges. This collaboration requires a deep understanding of both technology and user needs, and I take pride in making that connection seamless. Equally important is working alongside business leaders to ensure our AI solutions are perfectly aligned with the organization’s overarching goals. The challenge is to blend technical excellence with business relevance, and I’m driven by the rewarding task of turning ideas into solutions that deliver measurable results. Leadership with Empathy: Fostering Innovation I truly believe that technology alone is only part of the equation — leadership is what drives true, sustainable innovation. I lead with empathy, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives, and every team member feels heard, valued, and empowered. Compassionate leadership isn’t just about managing — it’s about inspiring teams to bring their best ideas forward and trust in a shared vision. By creating a culture of open communication, I’m able to draw out the best in every team member. Encouraging collaboration and creativity allows us to innovate together and deliver solutions that exceed expectations. This approach doesn’t just lead to successful products — it creates a vibrant atmosphere where everyone feels motivated and empowered to contribute. Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Business Spend Management The future of AI in business spend management is filled with immense promise. As AI continues to evolve, so will its ability to predict trends, automate processes, and provide deeper, more insightful data. The real opportunity lies in applying AI in ways that support the broader objectives of the organization. Our mission is powerful: to develop AI solutions that are not just cutting-edge but deeply user-centric, driving transformative business outcomes and fueling long-term growth. The future of business spend management is about pushing the boundaries of technology while staying deeply connected to the human needs behind it. Conclusion AI is transforming the landscape of business spend management in exciting and positive ways, and I’m thrilled to be part of this transformation. Through purposeful product management, compassionate leadership, and a strong commitment to collaboration, I’m dedicated to developing AI-driven solutions that not only increase efficiency but also empower organizations to make smarter, more strategic decisions. Looking ahead, I’m filled with excitement and optimism, knowing that the work we’re doing today is setting the stage for lasting change tomorrow. It’s a mission that motivates me each and every day — to help organizations unlock the full potential of AI to drive success, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Coupa recently refreshed its core values to reflect the new chapter of Coupa, which includes its branding, vision, mission, and new leadership team. Two learning consultants with Coupa for nearly four years shed some light on what these refreshed values mean to them. Matt Daack, Sr. Manager of Learning & Development, is based out of Missouri and is a member of our veterans employee resource group, Encourage. Before Coupa, he spent 25 years in the Air Force as a pilot and organizational leader. Kristi Gay, Sr. Manager of Education & Training, is a member of Empower, Coupa’s women’s employee resource group and is based out of Wisconsin. Before Coupa she spent 20 years as an engineering manager and programmer at a scale manufacturing company.
There are many great benefits to working at Coupa, and one that truly makes a difference is our robust Volunteer Time Off. While many companies and organizations encourage employees to take time off to volunteer, offering at least 8 hours a year, Coupa provides a generous 40 hours - a whole week. This extended time allows our employees to make a significant impact in their communities, and many Coupanians across the globe are proud of the difference they are making. Here’s why they love this robust benefit and how they give back:
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Steve Taylor, VP of Inclusion and Impact, shares his inspiring journey from program developer to human resources. “It’s been a tapestry of experiences,” he says. Read on. I started my career as a program developer, working closely with our customers. I had the opportunity to collaborate with various clients, including Coupa, which sparked my passion for customer interaction. I enjoyed what I did immensely; however, as time passed, I felt a shift in my journey calling me toward a new challenge—a pivot to the support side of our organization. The turning point in my career came unexpectedly. During a casual encounter, I met Susan Toyhama, our Chief Human Resources Officer, and we started conversing while preparing for an upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. Day presentation. That conversation opened up new ideas and perspectives on what inclusion and diversity genuinely mean to me. My passion became clear: connecting with people, understanding different cultures, and championing their stories. Soon after, an opportunity arose for a Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) expert role. My curiosity was piqued, and rather than jumping in headfirst, I sought the counsel of my trusted circle—my wife, friends, family, and mentors. However, a conversation with a general, who has become a dear friend, ultimately shaped my decision. He encouraged me by saying, “This is the perfect job for you. You have a natural ability with people and communication. You can’t pass this opportunity up.” For three months, I weighed the decision, ultimately realizing that it was my duty—my requirement as a human—to help my brothers and sisters grow and learn. The only thing holding me back was the misconception that HR wasn’t for me. I had my doubts, but eventually, I understood that this role was about more than just policies and procedures; it was about connecting with individuals and making a difference in their lives. Although navigating this new terrain felt natural and unnatural at times, it was clear that my purpose aligns with the job: talking to people, listening to their stories, and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. It is an honor and a privilege to have the platform to engage with diverse perspectives and to create a positive impact in our organization. Ultimately, my journey has taught me that embracing opportunity often requires stepping outside your comfort zone. My passion lies in the world of inclusion and impact, and I look forward to the road ahead, filled with meaningful conversations and lasting connections.
In the world of product development, success isn’t the result of one hero’s solo mission. It’s about assembling a team of specialists—each with unique superpowers—who unite to tackle challenges, defend against bugs, and deliver experiences that delight users. Think of it as forming your very own Avengers™ team, where Product Management (PM), Development, Quality Engineering (QE), and User Experience ........(UX) team up to save the day
What an incredible week we had! Thanks to the passion and dedication of our amazing Coupa family, we celebrated Global Impact Week like never before! With 13 countries participating and 38 local-led events, we exceeded last year’s participation with over 500 employees stepping up to make a positive change. We truly could not have done this without each and every one of you—thank you! Here are some of the highlights that made this week so special:
Q & A from our Sales Team
Most people at Coupa say they love this company because of the great culture and joy of working with “The Village,” a term referring to our global workforce. This year, we are double-clicking on what behaviors make that culture thrive by creating nine “Leadership Competencies,” or ways we want to interact with each other regardless of your title, background, team, or length of time at Coupa.
I am Maggie Mae Joy, Senior Director of Product Management, supporting our Source-to-Contract and Spend Analysis product teams. I’ve been at Coupa since August 2013, based in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. I started my career out of college as a consultant supporting the SAP implementation of a global automotive warranty system for one of the big three. Leveraging that consulting experience, I joined Coupa as a Solution Architect, supporting our customers and partners in implementing the Coupa platform before transitioning into a Product Management role. What I enjoy most about working at Coupa is the opportunity to use my time here as a professional and personal growth platform. Coming to Coupa with a background in systems implementation allowed me to hit the ground running in my first position as a Solution Architect. Those skills and a deep passion for improving the user experience helped me take my career in a different direction and join the product team. Through Coupa’s incredibly supportive culture, I found mentors & leadership training that enabled my development in product management. As I’ve transitioned between supporting different product areas over the past eight years, I’ve continued to be challenged to expand my knowledge, learn new skills, and connect with more of the Coupa community.