A simple checkbox saying a search was run or a statement relying on the experience of the investigator is far more open to scrutiny. Keeping search sentences brief and later combining them also helps. With the help of a librarian, information specialist, or AWIC staff member, a search strategy can be designed that minimizes time online. It is up to the investigator, however, to find and review appropriate articles from the resulting citation list to determine if alternatives to the proposed study are found. Whether it is the institution or the investigator, somebody pays the cost for searching.
Many university libraries give students and staff free access to online databases.
Costs also depend on which databases are accessed. Some database systems like PREX offer unlimited use of a set of databases for one subscription fee. CD-ROM's are another option that involves subscription fees only. Some facilities have included literature search costs as part of their operating budget or the costs are built into grant or study proposals. Appropriate animal numbers can be justified by consulting with a statistician.