I\'m new to Solr and am looking for a way to record searches (or keywords) to a log file or database so that I can then analyse for data visualisation.
The SolrLogging wiki page says you can use JDK logging (in Solr 1.0 to 1.3) or slf4j logging in Solr 1.4.
About your own Solr analyzer - it depends on your needs. In many cases, using your own analyzer helps for specific retrieval requirements.