Skip to main content

Document Retrieval Systems

Specialized systems for storing, indexing, and retrieving documents and their metadata.

Supported Solution Fields​

When to Use​

  • When you need document-centric search
  • When metadata management is important
  • When you need version control
  • When you need document processing pipelines

When Not to Use​

  • When you only need simple file storage
  • When real-time search isn't required
  • When you don't need document processing
  • When you need general-purpose search

Tradeoffs​

  • Features vs Complexity: More features mean more complex setup
  • Processing vs Speed: Better processing means slower indexing
  • Storage vs Access: Better access requires more storage
  • Managed vs Self-hosted: Ease of use versus control

Commercial Implementations​

  • OpenSearch

    • Open source
    • Document-focused
    • Good scalability
    • AWS integration

  • MongoDB Atlas Search

    • Integrated search
    • Document-native
    • Good performance
    • Atlas platform

  • Azure Cognitive Search

    • AI-enriched search
    • Document cracking
    • Managed service
    • Enterprise focus

Common Combinations​

  • Content management
  • Digital libraries
  • Legal document systems
  • Research repositories
  • Enterprise archives

A law firm implemented document retrieval for their case files:

Challenge​

  • Complex document types
  • Strict security needs
  • Fast retrieval required
  • Version tracking needed

Solution​

  • Implemented OpenSearch
  • Custom security plugins
  • Automated metadata extraction
  • Version control integration

Results​

  • 70% faster document retrieval
  • Improved security compliance
  • Better document organization
  • Reduced manual filing work