Information retrieval software comes in many varieties. A simple web search using one of the popular Internet search programs is adequate for many searches, but sometimes a specialized search is required. The type of information you need often determines which of the many Internet search applications you select for use in business. Some are designed for a general search and some for more in-depth information or for specific types of information.

Understanding how Internet search engine software works helps you know how to search. Though you get results immediately when you use a search engine, the process actually began before you started to search with behind-the-scenes steps. Search engine applications function to ensure the correct results are available as it processes a search for specific information.

Three steps web search engines take are:

1. Web crawling with spiders that automatically gather information from web pages and store it for later use.

2. Indexing content of each website the spiders find, to know what it's about and where to store the information.

3. Searching to compare the search query to what’s in the index and provide the best matches to the searcher.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Download free toolbars and other Internet search applications

Download free information search software that becomes part of your browser, giving you more search options right where you need them. These toolbars put search engine applications one click away, making many search tasks easy. The Firefox web browser allows you to add specialized search engines of all types, including news searches and music searches and reference materials such as dictionaries.

I recommend: The WebFerret search toolbar allows you to search multiple search engines at once. Google Toolbar adds functions including search suggestions and a button gallery to allow you to search your favorite sites. If you use Firefox, you can add specific drop-down Search Engine Add-ons for Firefox right to your Firefox toolbar.

Buy Internet search software solutions

Information retrieval software can add even more search-related functions to your arsenal. Save your search results for future use, or remove broken links so you don't waste time. Automatically highlight the searched term on any of the results pages to help you find it quickly in a long document.

I recommend: Two options of Internet search software include Copernic Agent and ISYS Search Software.

Use search engine software to add searching functions to your website

If your business website is extensive, adding a search function makes it easy for your customers to find what they need. Website search engines will be configured differently depending on whether the searcher is looking for information or products.

I recommend: Add a search engine to your site using ASPseek or SiteSearchPro.

Use specialized search engine applications

The Internet is not just a collection of text documents. You can search for a specific kind of media, either a book or an audio file, picture, or video. Use specialized search engines for specialized types of information as well, including education-related information, news media websites, and government-related information.

I recommend: Search for text and media files in the Internet at the Internet Archive. Use the list at NoodleTools to help you find the right search engine for the job.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read the search tips or help information at your favorite search engine applications to learn the best way to use the tools they provide.