A comparison of searching the Cochrane library databases via CRD, Ovid and Wiley: implications for systematic searching and information services

Abstract

Background: The Cochrane Library databases are available via different interfaces; evidence in the literature, together with anecdotal evidence, shows interfaces perform differently. To ensure the quality of searches, a study was undertaken to systematically explore the functionality of interfaces. Objectives: To demonstrate differences in functionality when searching the same databases across different interfaces; to discuss the implications this may have on searching; and in a wider context, to suggest a 'best match' for comparable searching. Methods: Detailed cross-comparisons of a selection of search functions including MeSH terms, free text, proximity operators and truncation were undertaken in databases accessed via CRD, Wiley and Ovid. Up to three terms per function were selected and analysed. Results: Differences were identified in the way searches for MeSH headings are executed, which fields are searched, how proximity operators perform, the word order searched and where terms are searched. This adds to a body of evidence demonstrating a lack of consistency in searching across different interfaces. Conclusions: A 'best match' for comparable searching is suggested. Differences between interfaces offering the same database content can have implications for the success of a search, on user education, and on database evaluation and purchasing decisions.

Thirty years of practitioner‐based projects

“…This issue showcases the range and breadth of manuscripts submitted to the Health Information and Libraries Journal , informing both strategy and operational practice at an organisational and individual level, and innovative practices to inspire and continue to extend the perceived role of the health library and information worker …”

“…Related to the above, Craven et al . provide a practical comparison of a single database, the Cochrane Library, via a range of database platforms (CRD, Ovid and Wiley).…”

“…and Libraries Journal, informing both strategy [1][2][3][4] and operational practice [5][6][7][8][9] at an organisational and individual level, and innovative practices to inspire and continue to extend the perceived role of the health library and information worker. [8][9] The challenges for health libraries in demonstrating their contribution to organisational objectives are explored by Chamberlain in his grounded theory study using focus group data, library statistics and an analysis of the literature.…”

“…Related to the above, Craven et al 5 provide a practical comparison of a single database, the Information skills training to improve search skills is a key recommendation of Alvarez et al 6 following their semi-structured interviews and focus group exploring HIV and AIDS researchers to perceptions of their abilities to search for and use scientific information. Alvarez et al note the particular importance of researchers developing an ability to interact with librarians in what has changed to largely digital environments.…”

Search results outliers among MEDLINE platforms

“…Some studies used queries that were designed to study reproducibility across platforms by comparing recall and precision for retrieval sets across platforms [17–19]. However, different query syntax across platforms has been highlighted as an important problem itself [20, 21]. One small study, for example, compared search queries and results among different interfaces to the CINAHL database and reported reproducible search strategies except for queries that contained subject-keyword terms [22].…”