Taxonomies

A taxonomy is a hierarchical classification system that organizes taxonomy terms. Taxonomy terms are a type of metadata, which you can use to classify objects.

You can use a taxonomy term to classify the object and the content that it contains. This makes those objects easier to find when you are looking for that information.

The taxonomy terms can also facilitate features like dynamic publishing portals and filtering if you generate an output from objects classified with taxonomy terms. This makes the information easier to find for end users.

Example of a taxonomy

A simple example of a taxonomy is a classification of animals, such as this:

  • Vertebrates
    • Reptiles
      • Turtles
      • Snakes
      • Lizards
    • Mammals
    • Fish
    • Birds
  • Invertebrates

The broadest categories in the animal taxonomy are at the top: vertebrates and invertebrates. Within the category of vertebrates are the categories reptitles, mammals, fish, and birds. Within the category of reptiles are the categories lizards, snakes, and turtles.

Each category becomes more specific and applies to a smaller group of animals. Additionally, if a specific category is applied to an animal, all the broader categories higher in the hierarchy are also applied. For example, if an animals is a turtle, it is also a reptile and a vertebrate.

Creating and editing taxonomies

An information architect uses IXIASOFT CCMS Desktop to create and update taxonomies. Users can then apply the taxonomy terms in these taxonomies using IXIASOFT CCMS Web.