The BASIRA team is delighted to announce the launch of several enhancements to our search interface. You are cordially invited to take a fresh look at the site. Please let us know what you think about the changes!
Tool Tips
We think that the most helpful enhancement for many users will be the deployment of “tool tips,” which provide concise explanations of specialized terms. If a term in the facet lists is followed by a small letter “i” in a circle, then you can hover your pointer over that “i” icon to reveal an explanation of that term.
Type-able Date Ranges
In the “Date” facet, one is now able to key in specific dates. The date slider bar still functions, but we find that the ability to type in exact dates is more convenient and precise.
“Creators” and “Repositories” Tabs
Note two new tabs at the top left of the Search window: “Creators” and “Repositories.” Each tab opens a search window: within this, one can input a word or name in the free-form field at the right. (The gear-wheel icon opens filters for sub-selections within the lists.) Search results via this portal presents lists of all the works by that artist or in that repository which are included in the BASIRA database.
View Recent Search History
Just below the Creator and Repository tabs is the general free-form search field. Below that is a new field in blue letters: “View Recent.”
Clicking on this link takes you to a very useful display of your current browsing session’s search history. Here, clicking on the double-page icon at the far right will copy the link for that search to your clipboard, permitting you to save it and send it to others. Clicking on the arrow icon will re-run the search. Please note that, in each case, the search will re-run in real time using the same parameters, such that the search results may not be identical in the future (as the database expands). Please note that this “View Recent” summary will disappear at the end of your browsing session. Accordingly, you may find it helpful to use links of saved searches as documentation for your work with BASIRA.
There have been other, less noticeable enhancements to the facets which we think will enhance the user experience. One particular area needs a “Stay Tuned” notice, however: a new field for “Script Type” under “Script” will be subject of focused attention by the BASIRA team over the coming months, as we revise our paleography schema. As always, user opinions and advice are welcome. Please contact us at info@basiraproject.org.
