Web Search, Enterprise Search, Real-Time Search, Semantic Search

In the second part of the Search Terminology series, let me explain some very common, widely used expressions: Web Search, Enterprise Search, Real Time Search and Semantic Search.

Web Search

Search action, initiated on the internet, with the intent to find (public) web content.

Enterprise Search

Enterprise Search connects people to the information they need to get their jobs done. The goal is to make enterprise content findable, both inside and outside the organization.

Enterprise Search is controlled, maintained, and owned by the organization. Therefore, customizations and custom developments are possible, and in most cases also needed.

Real-Time Search

Real-time search provides real-time data, rather than indexed content. Real-time search applications are used in big data scenarios, on social networks, etc. They are not typically used in enterprise search scenarios, but might be required. Due to the crawling model, it is not feasible in SharePoint / Office 365.

Semantic Search

Semantic Search’s goal is to improve search relevancy by understanding the searcher’s intent, and the context of searching. It uses natural language techniques, concept matching, synonyms, query generalization, and specialization, etc. It is widely used for discovery scenarios.

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