IEEE has launched a substantial upgrade to the IEEE Xplore digital library. The new product's intuitive user interface and customizable search tools make exploring IEEE's more than 2 million documents of trusted research easier, faster and more productive. Users can now spend less time researching and more time developing better products and pioneering technology.

"This major upgrade marks a milestone in the evolution of the IEEE Xplore digital library, enabling our customers to truly discover an altogether smarter research experience," said Karen Hawkins, IEEE director of Product Management. "The innovative new features of the IEEE Xplore digital library were implemented as a direct result of the feedback we've received from our customer base as well as the user research we've collected."

The task of updating a Web resource with such a vast amount of information was complex, requiring an in-depth, multi-functional team approach. The new IEEE Xplore digital library is the product of collaboration between IEEE and hundreds of librarians, faculty, scientists and engineers, as well as IEEE professional and student members and volunteers. Individual users and large and small organizations can subscribe at various levels, with new features that include:

• New efficient, easy-to-navigate design - The new IEEE Xplore digital  library enhances the search and browse tools with a clean and more efficient design. A global search box on every page provides an opportunity to begin a search from anywhere on the site, and the  prominent browse feature allows users to peruse thousands of journals,  magazines, conference proceedings, standards, books, educational  courses, and more. 
• Enhanced search engine with flexible features - Smart "Refine this  Search" capabilities allow for filtered search results via multiple  facets and provide the ability to easily add or remove search  elements. A convenient type-ahead feature shortens search time and  search suggestions decrease the possibility of zero search results.  Custom saved searches can be created directly from the search results  page. Users can also sign up for RSS feeds and e-mail alerts to stay  current with newly added content. 
• Advanced search mode - For power users who appreciate a more hands-on  search experience, a free-text command search with Boolean operators  is available in Advanced Mode. Included with other features is the  ability to search external sources such as CrossRef and scitopia.org. 
• New personalization features - Several personalization options are  available for guests, members and users at subscribing institutions.  These new options include the ability to set search preferences, save  searches and set alerts to receive instant notification when new  research relevant to your search is published in IEEE Xplore. 
• Institutional branding for customers - Co-branding, which includes an  organizational logo as well as information about the organization's  subscription, is visible to authenticated users throughout the site.  This feature promotes the subscribing organization and educates end  users that this content is made available by their institution's  subscription. 
• Enhanced online support - Page guides, online help and support have  been consolidated into one common area with localized files available  in several languages.