a searchable index is created using a query process and an indexing process . the query process cooperates with the indexing process to catalogue items that are located within a specified search scope . previously indexed items are evaluated to ensure that their indexes are up - to - date . items that are out - of - date have unreliable indexes that should be updated . items to be indexed within the specified search scope are grouped in batches for processing . as processing of each batch is completed their respective indexing results become available such that partially indexed search scopes are useable while the indexing process continues . since indexing results trickle in on an ongoing basis , users are permitted to process and / or view indexing results without waiting for the complete indexing process to be completed .