How to Search on SearchVIC using 3-Tier-Search ^TM Technology

The databases supplying information to SearchVIC's Search Engine work at three main levels.  We call this proprietary system, originally developed by SearchSA, 3-Tier-Search ^TM technology.

Please make time to read about the technology as it will help you to get the most benefit from the information stored in our web site databases - it's all about Victoria!

Tier One - The Open Index

At the basic level, the Search Engine uses the Open Index.  Listed entries in this index can be input for free using our submission form page at http://www.searchvic.com.au/addURL.aspx.  As at November 2007, the Open Index contained about 4,000 web page entries on topics all about Victoria.

It takes a few days for a web site entered through this "AddURL" form to appear in the Open Index because all entries must be manually inspected by SearchVIC staff before they are accepted into the SearchVIC information system.

If an entry in the Open Index is assigned up to four category codes at the time it is entered, that web site address will be available to appear in one or more of our Directories.  Currently, we have more than 400 directory categories listed in the Open Index and this number will increase over time.  You can view the main directory page at http://www.searchvic.com.au/directory/Directory.asp.

Tier Two - The Vertical Portal Index

The second level is what we call the Vertical Portals.  These are lists of web sites that we have stored in our Vertical Portal Index.  These lists have been sub-divided into about 65 groups, broadly based on industries or activities readily identifiable with Victoria.  The wine industry and accommodation for the tourism industry are examples of groups currently assigned in the Vertical Portals.

Inclusion in this Vertical Portal Index is free of charge, but this is expected to change in the future.

You can view the vertical portal index page at http://www.searchvic.com.au/vortals/Vertical_Portals.asp.

Tier Three - The Feature Pages

The third level is represented by our range of Feature Pages (Feature VIC).  These are web pages that contain a link URL to a web site as well as a brief description about six or eight Victorian web sites closely related to a selected topic.  For example, "Rental Property in Victoria ", or information on Used Cars are two topics that have their own Feature Page due to their relevance to Victorians.

The information on a Feature Page can also be dedicated to a particular company and, where this is the case, the page is clearly identified as being "sponsored" by that company or group.

Inclusion on a Feature Page is currently free, but this is expected to change in the future.

Anyone can apply to have their web site included on a Feature Page, but inclusion on SearchVIC remains solely at the discretion of SearchVIC Communications.

You can view the index of the Feature Pages at http://www.searchvic.com.au/feature/Feature_Pages_VIC.asp.

How to Search the Databases

The Open Index - Tier 1

You can search the Open Index by entering text into the text box located below the SearchVIC logo at the top left corner of the page and then by clicking on the button labelled "Find It".  A "search results" page will appear if any result has been found.

If "no result" is found from the text entered into the text box, a "No Results" page will appear and you will be able to continue with your search using a Google^TM search box, if you wish.

The Open Index - Directories

You can search through the Directories on the Open Index by selecting the hyperlink labelled "VIC Directory" located below the Open Index search text box and in the left margin of most pages on the site.  This link will take you to a page containing a comprehensive list of the available directories.

You can also link to many of the 400+ Directory Pages by scrolling down the left margin of our Home Page.

The Vertical Portal Index - Tier 2

You can search through the Vertical Portal Index by selecting the hyperlink "Vertical Portal Index" located below the Open Index search text box on most pages on the site.  A separate set of links is provided about halfway down the Home Page, for which the left margin is slightly different from all other pages on the site.

This link will take you to a page containing a comprehensive list of the available Vertical Portals.

The Feature Pages (Feature VIC) - Tier 3

You can open a list of all the current Feature Pages by clicking on the hyperlink "Search Feature VIC" located below the Open Index search text box.  This list is the most dynamic of all the search types, so you should check regularly to see what information is available through the Feature Pages.

Please Note: The Open Index includes references to many of the entries in the Vertical Portals and the Feature VIC sections of our Search Engine.  As such, the Open Index is a good place to start with your search.