The increasing database indexing of publicly accessible information has created the need for investigators to understand the organization of information as well as its content. The individual searching for information must understand the parameters of the database and know the subject matter well enough to sort out irrelevant information. With regard to modem accessible information it is important to note the difference between standing databases such as location information and interactive databases such as Dialog. Standing databases have one theme and limited access. They are useful when the information consumer knows specifically what they want, like an address.
Interactive databases allow for broad cross-data searching.
In addition to cross-file searching, interactive databases allow for refinement of inquiries. If the searcher's initial search phrase draws too many or too few results the search can be refined based on that information. Information hits can be reviewed at various levels such as headline, search phrase in context or full article. All of this requires ongoing analysis and judgment. It is an investigative process not an errand.