Auto-Graphics, Inc – Resource Management Solutions, Products & Services

AGent Enterprise: FAQ

Where do users begin searching with AGent Enterprise?

The web-based AGent Enterprise search interface can be integrated into your organization’s intranet or offered as a portal with a dedicated URL. Searches can be performed in-office or remotely.

How does AGent Enterprise simplify the login process?

Users save time by logging into AGent Enterprise only one time. The application’s user authentication protocols can then reference individual user profiles to automatically log them in to all other password protected sites, such as subscription content sources (LexisNexis, Gartner, etc.) and public member databases (New York Times online, MSN, etc.). No more logging in and out to switch databases.

Why is AGent Enterprise often called a Federated Search, Metasearch, or Single Search Tool?

These are all generic terms that accurately describe how our powerful, yet easy-to-use product significantly improves the search experience for users by searching multiple resources at once. Users quickly find the valuable information they need, without wondering which resources to search first. Results can be saved and re-implemented at any time.

Why is the difference between Federated Search, Search Engines and Native Database Tools?

The federated search method is different than a search engine on two main points. First, search engines use indexing to periodically update searchable content and do not always have the latest and most accurate content available. Second, search engines are generally more limited in their support of content formats and their ability to access licensed or fee-based databases. Native database tools are even more limited than search engines in that they are built to mine a single database platform, not unlimited content sources.

What are the main benefits of using AGent Enterprise?

Fully compatible with ALL available databases
Displays full text in true native interfaces (no screenscraping)
Single login via multiple authentication methodologies. Full support for proxy servers, referring URL, userid and passwords
Supports LDAP, EAP, IP and Proxy remote user authentication
Unlimited number of databases can be included in a search
Parse citations for all databases
Intelligent results management featuring de-duplication, sorting and configurable displays
Complete statistics package, including in-office and remote user stats, tracking by user, search types basic, advanced and qualified searching. Tools to add in collection development and resource usage justification. Extensive web traffic stats for hosted sites.
Flexible delivery options – hosted, hosted license and licensed solutions
Robust Web Services integration to existing applications
Available as a Web Services integration or portal

How is AGent Enterprise maintained?

AGent Enterprise can be maintained through Auto-Graphics' Software as a Service (SaaS) delivery model. With the SaaS option, the system is fully supported, fully backed up, and fully maintained by us, on our servers. All of this is included in our pricing with no hidden costs. Auto-Graphics is one of the pioneers in hosting and maintaining systems for customers and has been doing so for nearly a decade.

Does AGent Enterprise integrate with other applications?

Yes. AGent Enterprise supports Web Services (API or application programming interface), providing seamless integration into corporate intranets and enabling organizations to easily integrate other tools and applications to continue growing their solution. AGent Enterprise even extends e-commerce functionality by allowing customers or partners to search inventory and order products or services, with the ability to recognize variables such as customized partner pricing or special discounts.