Persian Search Engines: Evaluating Search Features, Information Retrieval, Precision and Recall and Their Overlaps

To identify and evaluate Persian search engine's features, specify the best one regarding retrieving related information, precision and recall and their overlaps. It's an applied research using an analytical survey. Search features of 5 general and available Persian engines were compared using a self-designed checklist. The rate of retrieving related result was calculated based on 50 retrieved pages using 7 keywords and phrases separately. Also, the precision and recall with and without overlaps were measured. The extent to which engines had overlaps was acquired during calculating recall. Persian search engines have appropriate features so one can have confidence about their performance. There are siginificant differences between search engines regarding retrieving related information and precision. Those engines having more search features were more efficient in retrieving related information and had higher level of overlapping. The identified gaps existed in search engines must be taken into consideration in order to support strengths and overcome weaknesses of these tools.