Vivisimo clustering engine organizes search results to make research faster.
Serials Solutions has launched Results Clustering technology in its Central Search federated search service. The new feature improves the organization of deep web-based searches. Serials Solutions, a division of ProQuest Information and Learning, is an industry leader in e-resource access and management solutions.
Federated search tools are used by institutions (such as libraries) that rely upon internet-based databases to support serious research. Central Search allows unrelated databases to be searched in a single interface — just as a casual user would search the open web.
Clustering technology “reads” patterns in search results, clusters them into related groups and organizes them under headings on the results screen. In addition to superior organization, the technology reveals relationships among results and assists users in discovering topics that otherwise might have been missed.
“Clustering is an ingenious way to deal with the problem of too many citations from too many resources,” says JR Jenkins, group product manager for Serials Solutions. “It provides searchers with a useful and informative overview of the terms, dates, resources, and authors found in the citations. Searchers can drill down into specific topic areas quickly and easily. They are exposed to concepts that surround the search — providing them with a global view of the term and presenting a powerful springboard into high quality research.”
Within minutes of the launch of the Results Clustering technology, more than 30 major academic and research libraries implemented it. Serials Solutions is providing the service to its clients at no charge and its web- hosted model requires no local software loading, making implementation of Results Clustering effortless for Central Search clients. As with all Central Search user interface features, Results Clustering is customizable.
Among those implementing the technology are The University of Arizona Libraries. “When we were considering federated search products it was the clustering technology which really made a difference in our decision making,” said Thomas Hogan, Cataloging and Metadata Librarian. “It makes Central Search stand out as a product and is certainly best for patrons.”
The Results Clustering feature is the result of integrating the well-known Vivisimo Clustering Engine with Serials Solutions Central Search. Clustering happens automatically with each search, delivering results that are organized in a way that’s intuitive and easily understood. Library user satisfaction is greatly enhanced, as is the librarian’s workflow.
“We are thrilled about the integration of Vivisimo Clustering in Central Search,” said Jane Burke, ProQuest Vice-President and General Manager of Serials Solutions. “Vivisimo is a global leader in search and results clustering. Their greatest strengths — rapid performance, superior usability, and high quality cluster creation — are perfect additions to Central Search’s robust searching power. With the integration of this new technology, Serials Solutions has indeed taken federated search to the next level.”
Serials Solutions is offering free webinars and demonstrations for those who want to see Results Clustering at work. You can register for a free upcoming webinar at http://www.serialssolutions.com/webinarlist.asp or request a free demonstration by emailing info@serialssolutions.com.
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