Patent ID: 8260771
Filing Date: 2012-09-04
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A computer-implemented method of assisting users in refining searches, the method comprising: identifying search criteria submitted by each of a plurality of users to search for items represented in a data repository; programmatically identifying a plurality of items that are associated with the search criteria, wherein the plurality of items are identified, at least in part, by analyzing item-specific actions performed by the plurality of users; programmatically analyzing attribute information of the identified plurality of items to select at least one item attribute that is useful for subdividing at least a portion of said plurality of items into multiple groups of items; at least partly in response to selecting the item attribute, creating, in a computer memory, an entry that associates the search criteria with the attribute; and in response to a subsequent submission by a user of a search query that includes said search criteria, looking up the attribute from the entry in the computer memory, and providing to the user an option to use the attribute to refine the search query.