Web usage mining analysis of federated search tools for Egyptian scholars
Program: electronic library and information systems
ISSN: 0033-0337
Article publication date: 26 September 2008
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the behaviour of the Egyptian scholars while accessing electronic resources through two federated search tools. The main purpose of this article is to provide guidance for federated search tool technicians and support teams about user issues, including the need for training.
Design/methodology/approach
Log files were exploited to examine the behaviour of users of information retrieval systems. This study examined two log files extracted from federated search tools available to the Egyptian scholars' community for accessing electronic resources. A data mining approach was implemented to investigate user behaviour through deep analysis of these logs.
Findings
Results show that: none of the available tools provide error messages for dummy queries; most of the Egyptian scholars had short queries; Boolean operators are not used in about 50 per cent of the queries; federated search tools do not provide techniques for query reformation; the optimal days for system maintenance are the non‐weekend vacations; and early morning is the best time for maintenance.
Practical implications
To maximise the value of the federated search tools by understanding user trends when utilising federated search tools. The study shows that more attention should be given to the search capabilities through ongoing training and awareness in order to maximise the benefit from the available resources and tools.
Originality/value
The hypothetical value of the federated search tools has not been previously examined and analysed to understand user trends.
Keywords
Citation
Mohamed, K.A. and Hassan, A. (2008), "Web usage mining analysis of federated search tools for Egyptian scholars", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 42 No. 4, pp. 418-435. https://doi.org/10.1108/00330330810912098
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited