• by Gavin O'Malley  @mp_gavin, May 1, 2007

In an effort to make its Web content more searchable, Reuters on Monday said it will acquire text analytics company ClearForest. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Like many online publishers, the breadth and variety of content carried by Reuters has mushroomed in recent years to include blogs and consumer-generated content, along with more traditional news reporting and analysis. One challenge this presents for publishers is how to make this influx of material easily accessible to readers.

In that vein, Reuters has created a new strategic search group within the company, which will be led by former head of search for AOL, Gerry Campbell.

"This technology has the potential to impact the user experience across all Reuters products," said Campbell, who will officially oversee the integration of ClearForest's search services as global head of search and strategic development.

Reuters has used ClearForest's text analytics and tagging technologies for about a year, according to a Reuters spokesman. The acquisition will now enable Reuters to develop new ways to improve its online experience for readers.

ClearForest will continue to help existing and new business clients to manage and facilitate access to large amounts of textual content. The Reuters spokesman said he expects the deal to close within 30 days.

Reuters plans to retain and continue to work with the existing management team and their workforces based in the U.S. and Israel.