A Distinguished Engineering Search Query

Early this week, Joyce Benik of SortFix, contacted me via this blog. She recommended that the Northstar Nerd should take a look at their new search engine ... you know ... better kind of mouse trap and all that kind of nonsense. While Google will remain my main search bookmark, I was pleasantly surprised with my SoftFix results and they are now part of my search tools. Let me explain the process (and give you some screen shots):

• Using the SortFix User Interface ... you enter your Google keywords
• SortFix runs your query, but suggests additional terms and keywords

Now ... I know what you're thinking. Doesn't Google already provided suggested alternative searches? While the answer to that question is yes, the SortFix graphical UI simplified the ability to make decisions on modifying my Google search query.

• Look at my initial query ...
  •  keywords: engineering, lecture, video
• In my second query ... some improvement
  • suggested keyword added: series 
• In my final query ... dramatically improved results
  • swapped suggested keyword: distinguised for series

I had not realized how prevalent the use of the word "distinguised" was when it comes to describing online engineering lectures. Here are just a few of the results which I need to assimiliate for addition to the Engineering Learning Wiki (research seminars section) are:

• Carnegie Mellon Computer Science Lecture Series
• Nokia's Distinguished Lectures on Cyber Physical Systems
• Society of Petroleum Engineers Distinguished Lecture Series

All of these lecture series are provided in the clear via web streaming without charge. I guess I should never agree to present unless it is part of a "distinguised" lecture series. However, this nerd has never been classified in that manner! Here are the promised search screenshots. Click upon any image for an expanded view.

   

Comments

[bezbob]

I agree
SortfIx is a trully distinguised search engine
nice one!

[Joyce Benik]

Hi Richard

Thanks for the post, hope you and your readers enjoy our new machine.

Joyce
SortFix