All search platform are created Equal...Myth or reality?

Abstract

Librarians are facing a lot of choices when they have to make a decision about which databases to order and on which platforms. What is financially beneficiary for the Library: Remote access or local load? CD-ROM or on line? Buy the data or follow the traditional way licensing the material? Do all search platforms offer the needed key elements? Multiple search capabilities, Accessible search tools -Thesauri and browsable indexes -, Results that are easy to review, multiple viewing options, ability to easily revise/save search strategies, Fast access to full text, ability to download into bibliographic management software.