%% topic-ex:: source-ex:: related-ex:: parent-ex:: children-ex:: siblings-ex:: created-ex:: 2024-12-15 15:21 modified-ex:: 2024-12-15 15:21 %% # Best Practices for Tag Systems 3-Sentence Summary: Create a clear, consistent tag vocabulary before you start tagging. Use broad tags for general categories and specific tags for details, but avoid over-tagging. Regularly review and maintain your tag system to prevent sprawl and inconsistency. --- Detailed Summary: Start with a core set of essential tags rather than creating tags on the fly. Think of your most common search needs and build your initial system around those. Consider creating a simple tag hierarchy with primary categories (like "finance," "projects," "personal") and subcategories, but keep it shallow and flexible. The key to success is consistency in naming conventions. Use singular forms ("invoice" not "invoices"), decide on capitalization rules, and stick to them. For dates and versions, establish a standard format. When working in teams, create and share a tag glossary to ensure everyone uses the same terms. Most importantly, resist the temptation to create new tags for every slight variation. Focus on tags that will be useful for future retrieval. If you'll never search for something by that attribute, it probably doesn't need to be a tag. --- Nested Outline: * Essential Practices * Planning Phase * Define core categories * Establish naming conventions * Create tag hierarchy * Implementation * Use consistent formats * Apply tags systematically * Focus on retrievability * Maintenance * Regular tag reviews * Clean up unused tags * Update conventions * Best Habits * Tag while processing * Use tag combinations * Think about future searches --- | Best Practice | Why It Matters | How to Implement | | :---------------- | :---------------------- | :------------------------------ | | Consistent Naming | Prevents fragmentation | Create naming guidelines | | Core Tag Set | Provides structure | Plan essential categories first | | Regular Review | Maintains system health | Schedule monthly cleanups | | Future-Focused | Improves retrievability | Tag for search needs | | Combination Use | Increases flexibility | Use multiple relevant tags | | Template Tags | Ensures consistency | Create common tag sets | | Shallow Hierarchy | Keeps system simple | Limit to 2-3 levels | | Team Guidelines | Aligns usage | Share tag vocabulary | | Tag as Created | Prevents backlog | Make tagging part of workflow | | Simple Tags | Reduces complexity | Use clear, single concepts |