GIR has a number of interesting features and properties which are made possible by the combination of IR with grid computing.

Distributed searching and distributed collections

GIR promotes interoperable distributed searching, drawing on the experiences of past efforts in this area. Grid computing however allows closer integration of distributed components than was possible in the past. GIR also seeks to distribute the collection, processing, and indexing of documents in a standardized way, which is a notable departure from traditional monolithic IR systems.

Dynamic, personalized creation of IR systems

Since grid services are instantiated in a consistent manner, IR systems in the GIR model can be created dynamically as needed. Unlike current personalization which is generally performed on the "server side," GIR allows personalization to be managed on the "client side," which provides more flexibility.

Customizable security models

The distribution of IR using the VO model allows multiple subsets of organizations with heterogeneous security requirements to exist simultaneously. For example, organizations that wish to provide limited document access can still provide searching access within a VO of other organizations that may have different access restrictions.

Based on IR implementation experience

The architecture of GIR draws upon more than 10 years of experience with international IR standards development and system implementation. In addition, the incorporation of Z39.50 expertise takes advantage of decades of work done by veterans of the IR standards community.

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