Item Search — Empty Query Results
When you open the item picker with an empty search box, it now returns 100 active items instead of 15
On this page
Overview
When you open the new-ticket, new-estimate, or new-invoice picker with an empty search box, BlueClerk now shows the first 100 active items alphabetically instead of just 15. This ensures common services that sit later in the alphabet (like "Repair Labor", "Sink Repair", or "Leak Repair") appear in the initial list without requiring you to type a search query first. The picker still filters client-side as you type, giving you instant access to your full active catalog.
How It Works
Empty Search Behavior
When the picker opens without a search term:
- 100 items load - The first 100 active items sorted alphabetically
- Full catalog visibility - Common services after the A-K range now appear
- Client-side filtering - Type to narrow results instantly without server round-trips
- No performance impact - 100 items render smoothly in the dropdown
Why 100 Items?
The previous 15-item limit caused common services to be hidden behind the search box. With catalogs containing products (dumbbells, parts, equipment) and services (repairs, installations), alphabetically late services like "Repair Labor" or "Sink Repair" never showed unless you searched specifically. The 100-item default matches what the original useNewTicketForm returned and ensures your full active service list is visible on load.
Tips
- Still searchable - Type any part of an item name to filter the 100-item list instantly
- Active items only - Inactive items are excluded from the empty-query results
- Alphabetical order - Items appear A-Z by name, making it easy to scan
Questions
Q: What if I have more than 100 active items? A: Type a search term to find items beyond the first 100. The picker searches your entire catalog as you type.
Q: Why not load ALL active items on empty query? A: 100 is a safe limit that covers most catalogs while keeping the UI responsive. Larger catalogs benefit from typing a few characters to narrow results.
Q: Does this affect search performance? A: No - the picker still filters client-side as you type, so searching is instant regardless of the initial 100-item load.