crosssearchability
Crosssearchability refers to the ability to search across multiple data sources or repositories using a single query and retrieve relevant results from each source. It enables a unified discovery experience when information is spread across databases, digital libraries, content management systems, or cloud data stores. Crosssearchability is facilitated by integrating indexing, querying, and metadata practices so that users can access diverse content without knowing where it resides.
Implementations typically fall into two broad categories. Federated search distributes the query to each source and
Benefits include improved discovery, reduced time to locate information, and a more coherent user experience when
Challenges encompass data silos, inconsistent metadata quality, varying access restrictions, and licensing. Heterogeneous data models require
Future developments in crosssearchability include AI-assisted query expansion, automated metadata alignment, and the use of knowledge