Search (2 results, page 1 of 1)

  • × author_ss:"Ballard, T."
  1. Ballard, T.: Library systems : transaction log fever; analyzing patron searches can reveal solutions to increase search success (1996) 0.05 
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    Abstract
    Describes research into unsuccessful searches of OPACs by analyzing searches and computer messages, explaining how data was collected and analysed in a study at Adelphi University in 1994. Discusses ways of bridging the gap between users' formulations of subjects and the terms used in authority files and subject heading schemes
  2. Ballard, T.: Keyword / subject : finding the middle path (1998) 0.04 
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    Abstract
    Offers a third alternative to the debate over subject vs. keyword searching in libraries. Provides a background of this facts underlying the debate, including the high failure rates among patron subject searches, driven by the public's overall failure to adequately learn proper controlled vocabulary syntax, and the high percentage of erroneous matches generated by keyword searches, driven by the fact that book titles may have nothing to do with the contents. Describes a hybrid approach that uses a keyword index of the subject field, and that reduces failure rates by 75% among one library's patrons. Reports that, in spite of a few remaining imperfections, this system seems to represent 'the ideal marriage of keyword and formal subject heading searching' for library patrons. Lists the Web site location of the catalogue on which the new system was developed