Clarification on the DAM related language we use
Do you find DAM-related jargon confusing or just annoying? We find that as with most specialist industries, DAM system providers tend to use them a lot. Often we find it does more to confuse the subject matter than to explain each providers features. Today we deal with the language of classification, and dispel the confusion surrounding these DAM-related terms.
- Taxonomy – This refers simply to the science or technique of classification. So, how we name and file digital files and images in a logical way.
- Controlled vocabulary – Standardized words and phrases which ensure consistency in classification. So, the naming conventions and words we use when naming those digital files.
- Metadata – Data which describes the item to which it is attached. This includes how and when it was created and what it is as well. This is in addition to what the items contain. We find that good use of metadata will often improve search ability of files in any form of DAM system.
- Category tree – A classification system using words arranged in an expanding tree like structure of nodes (groups). Sub-nodes support these, each possessing some quality or qualities in common. This mechanism was a real breakthrough for our team, and improved the performance of our own DAM system significantly.
- Keywords – These are words or phrases that describe content. Well, self-explanatory really.
- Synonyms – Words or phrases that mean exactly or nearly the same as other words or phrases in the same language. As any digitally minded professional knows, how we develop this pool of related words is very useful commercially.
