So, I want to find some items in my inventory, and just learned how to search, and..
FFXIV:
Type Enter. /itemsearch "item name"
Result: A list of items found that match.
Click the item in the chat list, select "Search For Item"
Result: A list of locations and how many of the item are in each.
Now, you have to open that location and mouse through it's contents to find the item..

WoW:
Open the bag / bank (or both)
Type the item name in the search box
Result: Matching items are highlighted by disappearing everything else. One easy step.