The Technology

Boolean search is by far the most common approach used in search tools. It is a well established and mature technology but despite this it is not a panacea for the complex challenges ‘search' presents. For example it:-

• can only recover information the user specifically asks for and knows about
• it cannot discover information buried in the data that they don't know about or didn't think to ask for
• cannot explain the real meaning of information found
• cannot understand the different contexts that exist for users queries
• burdens users with long lists that are difficult & time consuming to sift through to uncover the information they need

SOPHIA has been designed to address these recognised limitations. SOPHIA is unique in that it addresses the ‘search problem' from a linguistic view point as opposed to from a purely mathematical perspective.

It is based on an established model of language called Semiotics which describes how we understand and interpret the meaning of signs and texts in context.

We don't argue that SOPHIA should replace Boolean search entirely - moreover it is a complementary tool that provides an enriched search experience that enables users to browse, navigate, discover and understand their information in context.