However, the import feature is somewhat outdated, so the user might have to find the least common denominator between the file format to import and askSam's capabilities. Along with importing documents, users can input text in askSam like in a word processor. Although limited functionality is available, it is doubtful that the user will want to give up their word processing software. The real power of askSam is the searching and reporting capabilities. The search utility includes boolean, proximity, and field searches.
Boolean searches allow for the combination or exclusion of keywords.
The widespread use of search engines on the World Wide Web has popularized boolean searching. Proximity searches limit unwanted results further by specifying the distance separating two or more keywords. And finally, the more structured researcher can search by fields and specifically for dates or numbers within the data areas. Eventually, the researcher will want hard copies of his or her information. AskSam's report utility, like the initial use of the toolbars, requires some orientation.