Document Retrieval for E-Mail Search and Discovery Using Formal Concept Analysis

This paper discusses an document discovery tool based on conceptual clustering by formal concept analysis. The program allows users to navigate email using a visual lattice metaphor rather than a tree. It implements a virtual le structure over email where les and entire directories can appear in multiple positions. The content and shape of the lattice formed by the conceptual ontology can assist in email discovery. The system described provides more exibility in retrieving stored emails than what is normally available in email clients. The paper discusses how conceptual ontologies can leverage traditional document retrieval systems and aid knowledge discovery in document collections.