The Verizon Foundation had data coming from multiple external vendors that was being collected a variety of ways and accessible only via a SQL database.  The SQL Database was not publically available. The Verizon Foundation was launching a new Web site and had a grant requirement that the new site make the data searchable.  The new site was being created to "deliver free, top quality online educational resources to strengthen problem-solving, creativity and critical thinking skills". 

The Verizon Foundation worked with Fig Leaf Software, a Google Value Added Reseller (VAR) to purchase the Google Search Appliances and customize the search solution.  Utilizing deep meta tagging and database feed capabilities of the Google Search Appliance, Fig Leaf crafted a solution that pulls a uniform set of data from a SQL database and exposes a custom search interface through ASP.Net technology.  The interface enables public and authenticated users to search through content using a variety of different choices based on information type and user profile.  Content is pulled from more than eight content sources including the following organizations:

• American Association for the Advancement of Science
• International Reading Association
• National Center for Family Literacy
• National Council on Economic Education
• National Council of Teachers of English
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
• National Endowment for the Humanities
• National Geographic Society
• ProLiteracy Worldwide
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History
• The John F. Kennedy Center for the   Performing Arts

With Fig Leaf Software’s assistance, the Verizon Foundation was able to launch their new Thinkfinity search solution in a matter of weeks opening up tens of thousands of educational materials to educators, parents and students alike.  Visitors and authenticated users can search content by any of the following search criteria: Keyword, Subject, Grade, Resource Type, Content Partner.  Style sheets for the results display content with visual keys to show how content is tagged, i.e. by resource type, grade level, conformity to state standards, etc.