Discusses the growing gap between what is available on the Internet and what search engines can retrieve, particularly data lost in the breach of the unindexable, versus the unindexed, Web. Highlights include products designed to focus on content that is usually missed by search engines; and directories versus search engines. (Contains 10…

Discusses the search option on Web sites and explains how to develop a search engine. Highlights include search options, including Boolean operators, graphical interface, and language; platform and server compatibility; indexing; metadata; XML; customization options; installation and configuration; evaluation; usability; and cost. (LRW)

Explains seven types of subject descriptions commonly used in databases--hierarchical classification, category codes, subject headings, descriptors, faceted classification, post-controlled vocabulary, and natural language--and describes specific search techniques for taking advantage of the strengths of particular types of vocabularies. An overall…

Introduces HARFAX Industry Data Sources, a bibliographic database which provides access to international sources of statistics on 60 key industries. Criteria for inclusion of material in the database, indexing policy, and uses of the database are discussed. Sample searches are illustrated and exhibits containing facts on the file are attached.…

To assess value of abstracts in online information retrieval, this study attempts to match free-text search phrases to index terms and provides classification of documents indicating form of retrieval to be expected by searching three databases--Energyline; Management Contents; and America, History and Life. Results of a sample search are…

Examines trends in World Wide Web searching; reviews new search services; and describes changes in major Web search services. Highlights include commercial sites, subject access, target audience, custom interfaces, concept searching, and results lists. (LRW)

Considers patent subject searching capabilities of major online databases, noting patent claims, "deep-indexed" files, test searches, retrieval of related references, multi-database searching, improvements needed in indexing of chemical structures, full text searching, improvements needed in handling numerical data, and augmenting a…

Discusses the Vocabulary Switching System (VSS), an experimental, automated switching system, which specifically addresses the problems of heterogeneous database vocabularies and indexes and the difficulty these pose for users who wish to combine more than one database in a single online search. (CWM)