SPIN offers three search modes as outlined below. You may also choose ready-to-run searches such as Impending
Deadlines and New/Modified Opportunities from the SEARCH menu.
- Basic Search: This is the default mode. It operates much like Google where you set up your search strategy
and terms. See the “Help Menu – Basic Search Help” for examples of useful search strategies.
- Keyword Search: This search mode allows access to the SPIN Keyword Thesaurus, arranged by category.
Clicking “Select Keywords” (above the box) brings up a category list of search terms in a separate screen in
which you drill down to view available keywords. Explorer tab allows you to select keywords via checkbox; your
selected keywords appear to the right.
There are no limits on the number of keywords selected. Use the
Searcher tab to quickly locate terms in the SPIN Keyword Thesaurus. Once you have made your selections, click
on “Save Selections and Continue” up at the top right of the screen. Your selected keywords will appear in a box
at the top of your screen. Click on the “Locate Funding” button to the right of this box and potential funding
sources appear in table format. SAVE YOUR SEARCH at this time. - Advanced Search: This search mode provides more user control. The initial field comes up with Full Program
as the default but is a drop-down menu. To add additional criteria, click the Add New button. Selecting distinct
fields creates AND queries while selecting the same field multiple times creates OR queries.
For all three search modes, results come up in table format. Save your search if you plan to run again or if you would like
to create automatic notifications (Step 5). The default is 25 opportunities per page; you may increase up to 100 per page
or choose All. If you would like them arranged by sponsor or other heading, drag and drop the heading to the line above.
