A new central on-line database has been created by Property Intelligence called FOCUS. The service provides a single reference point for published information about commercial property in the United Kingdom, drawn from a wide range of sources. Subscribers can access the information via a microcomputer in their office linked to the FOCUS computer at Property Intelligence, via normal British Telecom lines.
Information on the FOCUS database is stored in the form of individual property records, each with its own reference number, address and associated text providing whatever published information appropriate to that record is available.
The text for each property is divided into two sections. First, a brief description of the property is given, in terms of size, usage, number of floors, date of construction, amenities and site area. Second, information is provided on owners, developers, tenants, funding institutions, contractors and deals involving the property and its planning.
Subscribers access property records by a variety of fixed-format inquiry screens designed to enable the easy retrieval of information relating to ownership, deals, rent reviews, planning and development and property available for sale or to let. Within these categories inquiries can be defined according to geographical area, property size, usage and tenure. Records are coded and indexed to allow easy information retrieval.
Several firms have assisted Property Intelligence with a “pilot” scheme including Knight Frank & Rutley, Chestertons and St Quintin. The main launch of the system will take place early this summer.
The FOCUS system is based on Cap Gemini Sogeti’s Multitrieve software, which in turn is based on the Status Scientific text-retrieval system from the UK Atomic Research Centre at Harwell. Details from Michael Nicholson on 01-839 7684.
