Differences between search and retrieve

Use the search or retrieve functions to access data.

Understand the difference between search and retrieve to ensure efficient data retrieval.

1. Search. When you perform a member search by entering demographic information on the Search Identity or Search Household page, the software creates a “virtual member” record. From that virtual member, the application's algorithm compares the attributes against other records to determine potential candidates. A score, reflecting the confidence of a match, is assigned to each record. The score is based on a comparison between the criteria specified in the search and the candidate itself. The higher the score, the more likely the candidates match the search criteria.
2. Retrieve. If you enter information on the Retrieve page, the application “gets” the requested record. This record is not compared against any other record during the “get” process. A retrieve only displays the specific record requested. However, if the record is linked to other records by Entity ID, the records are returned as an entity or linkage set.

Although, the application can operate with limited input criteria, the key to achieving accurate search results is that the more information (search criteria) you provide, the better the results.