Sorting Through Online Systems

Librarians often ask if there's a simple way to keep online systems straight in order to help users and conduct efficient searches. Although there is danger in oversimplifying the complexities and contrasts among the hundreds of online systems and databases to which libraries provide access, all but full-time online searchers should practice a simple coping mechanism. First recognize the similarities rather than the differences (today's commercial online services are more alike than not) and then focus on the few important differences that make each system stand out.

pp. 32-34