[Sigia-l] Re: Core set of classification terms

[mahons1 at eircom.net]

>
> What I'm noticing is the emergence of a core set of web-based 
> classifications, regardless of the language. Classifications like: Home, 
> About, Contact, Feedback. Even if this is not always the case, it is 
> certainly true that within English-language websites, these terms are 
> beginning to dominate.
>
> This emergence of a core set of classification terms can be, I believe, 
> very useful. It supports the ability of the person to quickly find their 
> way around a website because they see terms they are familiar with. It 
> also makes the job of classification design that bit simpler and faster.

Whilst I am loath to argue with my fellow countryman I do have to point out 
that such terms would hardly be counted as 'classification' terms by 
purists. Classifying is the science (art?) of grouping items in similar 
categories (I know that is a short hand definition, but illustrative). What 
Gerry calls classification terms may be more normally known as descriptors. 

>
> The Web often reminds me of airports. It's an international space; people 
> are always moving from one website to another. Now, when you're designing 
> a new airport, I doubt the design team sits around asking questions like: 
> What are we going to call the Exit sign? What will we call Departures? 
> What will we call Arrivals?

In fact there is an international agreed (standard? I am not sure) set of 
pictograms in use here; for example there is a European agreed pictogram 
for 'fire exit' - rather important!!
>
> I'd be interested in finding out if other people have noticed the 
> emergence of a core set of classification terms, and what they are? Have 
> any studies been carried out here?

Not sure but there are certainly studies on classifications.

Bye, Barry Mahon