What is it?
The Google Search Appliance is server hardware and software that functions just like Google does, but within our own web site. It provides a sitewide search tool.
What does it do?
The Google Search Appliance creates an index of our website, just like Google would. Because we have control of the appliance, we have many more options at our disposal, some of which are outlined below.
Keymatches and Synonyms
Keymatches prioritize and establish a specific result in response to a particular search term. For example, a search for Kronos will direct users to the time clock information page. Keymatches are highlighted in a light blue tint and appear at the top of the search results page.
Synonyms work on the same principle. If a user searches for majors, we suggest an alternative search for programs, which may yield better results.
If you'd like to suggest additional keymatches and synonyms (please do!), use the form at the bottom of this page.
Collections
The GSA allows us to create collections, which are small parts of the main index. By utilizing collections, it will be possible to search only a specific part of our website, such as the library or athletics.
And more!
We can remove pages from search results, or we can prevent them from being indexed in the first place. We can also have the appliance generate useful reports and statistics. The Google Search Appliance gives us several powerful tools to make finding content on the website easier.
How can I tell if my search box goes to the correct version of Google?
Type a search term into the box at the top of one of your templated pages. If your results page looks like this, you are using the old search and need to swap out the code:
If your results page looks like this, you have the correct code:
The Google code page provides all the details to edit your site template. If you are a Contribute editor, or if we have created your templates for you, contact us and we'll make the change for you.
Submit your search terms and keymatches
If you have questions or concerns about the Google Search Appliance, don't hesitate to contact us. We'd be happy to help.