This wiki is one great self refactoring living pattern. Structuring it dynamically will eventually show more and more defined categories. Categorizing it intentionally will enhance this development and the awareness of its users --Harry (aka Anonymous Donor)
To throw away taxonomy is to Reinvent The Wheel...Once And Only Once is enhanced by categorization.
The establishment of Categories on pages should be a way of connecting On Topic pages to the Wiki's Starting Points. If a page cannot be logically categorized using an existing or sensible new category, several options are indicated:
Refactor the page to translate it into a page which can be categorized
Merge the page with another page which is properly associated and categorizable
Move the content of the page elsewhere
Tag the page as a candidate for deletion with reasonable explanation as to why it should be.
Leave it be; some pages may prove to be the exception to any rule or classification
Other possibilities
A narrative on "Why Classify Every Page On Wiki?"
Q: Are we supposed to have each page in no more than one category as well?
A: Multiple categories for a single topic is logical. For example: an automobile is a vehicle, but it can also be a deadly weapon; the various stellar constellations are astrological icons, but are also mythological icons and can be used as a compass; etc. This is the essence of multiple inheritance.
A page often fits into several categories. So put all of those category words at the bottom of the page (which puts that page into all of those categories). For example, Limits Of Hierarchies is in more than one category (and discusses the fact that a single category per page is insufficient).
Q: If the category system isn't unique what additional use does it fulfill by being exhaustive? I cannot think of a single addition functionality added by exhaustiveness in the absence of uniqueness.
A: Alternate Wiki Navigation Methods are essential because Wiki Is Nota Tree. Exhaustive classification of every topic on Wiki enhances Once And Only Once and assists Refactor Mercilessly.
Category Category is a dynamic and valuable part of this Wiki. Not everyone wants to either blunder around the labyrinth (although it can be fun) or blunder around the Deeply Intertwingled depths of a search result. Much like a site map, a complete category system assists the Wiki Zen to make a Bee Line for their chosen topic.
Every page could be categorized without harming the Wiki, as long as the categories are refined and continue to be dynamically moving and growing.
The only way classifying every on wiki could be destructive is if we just stopped categorizing. As long as everyone keeps classifying, both single and multiple categories, then Category Category will be useful for all.
See original on c2.com 