A good definition of a database is “an integrated collection of logically related records or files which consolidates records previously stored in separate files into a common pool of data records that provides data for many applications. The structure is achieved by organizing the data according to a database model.”

While on the surface the Internet may seem to have a bunch of information in a common pool and in a structured format – it does not. It is largely unstructured data, and there certainly isn’t a database model.

You’re right that this poses serious challenges for those seeking information.

On the other hand, the “search engines” themselves aren’t very strong at text based search – most of the majors don’t even support full Boolean logic, and none of them offer more user control over search relevance, through configurable proximity and term weighting, giving you a real chance at finding what you need.

Semantic web technology will definitely help in the future, but it is not a magical solution, as it is system-defined (YOU know what you’re looking for – the system doesn’t really know – it “guesses”).

Your advice of continuing to think about your searches, observing the results, and recalibrating based on what you’re getting is spot-on. Thinking is the most important aspect in search.

Well said!

-Jim

Animal makes a great point, that the internet is a “finicky” database. The whole point of this post is to get people thinking differently about search. We talk about sourcing in locations where people already gather as opposed to waiting for them to come to us. It’s important to think like the person you’re trying to find; that will ultimately make your search easier and more fruitful.

Thanks for the comments and feedback everyone!