A resilient,evolving resource

Abstract

This article presents a basic review of taxonomy from the viewpoint of its growing importance for information professionals. It traces the practice and definition of taxonomy back to the 19^th century to show the way in which the field has evolved into a systematic means for the organization of knowledge and the provision of a hierarchical structure of concepts by means of terms that assist in the development of a common language for knowledge sharing. It shows how interest in taxonomy has been boosted in recent years by two factors connected with the development of the World Wide Web: the need to improve the way in which knowledge sharing can be improved through its classification and retrieval; and the way in which taxonomies play a vital role in the working of the so-called ‘semantic web’. The article notes that taxonomies can help to avoid the problems created by similar sounding words or words with multiple meanings, and can help to give web resources a more professional, organized look, and improve site navigation. A basic guide is provided for implementing taxonomies by covering some of the basic issues involved, including: the software needed to get started; coordination of work through colleagues; tiers and testing; and implementing the finished taxonomy.