Spatial keyword query processing

TLDR

Geo‑textual indices are crucial for spatial keyword querying, yet no systematic comparison exists, making it hard to identify the best technique for specific functions. The study surveys 12 state‑of‑the‑art geo‑textual indices and proposes a benchmark to compare their spatial keyword query performance. The authors conduct a comprehensive survey and develop a benchmark framework for evaluating spatial keyword query performance across indices. Applying the benchmark revealed insights that can guide index selection and inform future research.

Abstract

Geo-textual indices play an important role in spatial keyword querying. The existing geo-textual indices have not been compared systematically under the same experimental framework. This makes it difficult to determine which indexing technique best supports specific functionality. We provide an all-around survey of 12 state-of-the-art geo-textual indices. We propose a benchmark that enables the comparison of the spatial keyword query performance. We also report on the findings obtained when applying the benchmark to the indices, thus uncovering new insights that may guide index selection as well as further research.