While the central GILS server need not support searching on such a term, the special groups may wish to implement their own Harvesting server for local term searching. If the attributes and values are embedded in their data, they can provide a topic-specific search engine for their needs Use of traditional library cataloging practices may stump the public searcher. For example, the use of LC subject headings requires advanced training to navigate and locate records. By contrast, simple subject controlled-vocabularies can be used by citizens through browsing without prompting. By imposing two or more attribute values during searching, substantial improvement in precision and recall can be realized.
Attention naturally turns to the use of fielded searching using the metatag attirbutes.
However, such a tool is but one aid to public discovery of government information. It will be important for Oregon to create a 'whole cloth' discovery set to meet public need. The formation of a Steering Committee is critical to injecting stakeholder preference and expectation into the GILS product. It is advisable to get prospective Committee members involved early in the planning effort. Within 4 to 6 weeks, the project should be under the guidance of Steering Committee and Stakeholders.