Parts of an Index

This topic discusses:

• Queries and Search Definitions.

• Search Categories

Queries and Search Definitions

The PeopleTools Search Framework requires queries to build searches. Queries and connected queries are pre-defined for all indexes provided by PeopleSoft. Query security must be granted to the callback user defined on the Search Instance page to build and generate queries. Modifications to queries should always be well documented.

A deletion query is also provided where necessary, to synchronize indexes and transaction tables.

Queries are associated with search definitions and define all searchable portions of the data. Fields, also known as attributes, which can be used in a search, are authorized on a search definition. Some fields can be turned on or off without needing to modify the search page. This is the case with component Keyword Search and Global Search. The number of fields that are indexed can affect performance. A search definition can also be thought of as the physical index that is created.

Facets are also defined on a search definition and can be turned on or off.

Note:

When modifying facets, or attributes, associated with a search definition you must also make similar changes to the search category. The number of facets that are indexed can affect performance.

See Understanding Performance Considerations within Financial and Supply Chain Management Search

Search Categories

Search Categories are objects that are used for searching. A search category contains a search definition or a group of search definitions also known as indexes. In order to search across multiple indexes for values, the indexes must first be combined into a single search category. Predefined search categories are provided by PeopleSoft.

Important:

Modifications to existing search categories, facets, or attributes that are associated with a search definition is considered a minor customization and should be well documented.