| 20110314052 | ENHANCED SEARCH SYSTEM AND METHOD - Systems and methods are described to enable enhanced searching of data, particularly for larger volumes of data where the data has a plurality of attributes. Conventional search systems require complex and intelligent search input from a user or require a large amount of processing power and complex database access functionality to process searches based on complex data. The system described uses predefined search criteria, wherein each search criterion is associated with at least one attribute. In one aspect, images are stored together with an association with a search criterion. The images are provided for display to a user and input is received from the user to select at least one image and therefore the search criterion and attribute associated with the image. The items of data are searched to retrieve items having the at least one selected attribute and a first intermediate list of identifiers of the retrieved items is stored. A total number of items identified in the first intermediate list is calculated and a list of attributes associated with the items identified in the first intermediate list is determined. A revised set of search criteria is then provided for display wherein each search criterion has at least one of the attributes. Further input is received to select a second image and hence a second search criterion and attribute. The retrieved items identified in the first intermediate list are searched to retrieve items having the second selected attribute. A second intermediate list of identifiers of the retrieved items is generated and a total number of items identified in the second intermediate list is output for display. Other features and aspects of the system are also described. | 12-22-2011 |
