Abstract: Systems and methods of providing a configurable table of rules that defines a repository/archive search priority that includes multiple repositories/archives. In this manner, repository/archives are successively searched and after a first result is returned the search is stopped. Repository/archives searched in priority order based on location in pre-configured “tiers.” This enables searches to be directed to repository/archives that are best able to handle load for different types of searches, and for different types of studies as well. A duplicate priority list enables an administrator to designate which repository/archive will appear on search results list if duplicates are found. For example, in clinical study archiving systems, the search priority enables an administrator to direct searches to repository best able to handle load for different types of searches and for different types of studies.