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Also known as: Collection
An unordered grouping of SKOS concepts assembled for convenience or shared characteristics.
DESCRIPTION
SKOS collections cluster concepts without implying hierarchical broader/narrower relations. They use skos:member to list concepts and can be nested. Collections support navigation, thematic grouping, and user interface organization. Unlike concept schemes, collections do not define a coherent scope for an entire vocabulary. They are useful for curated lists, facets, or topical bundles.
ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS
W3C
A meaningful collection of concepts.
Emphasizes grouping without hierarchical semantics.
W3C
Collections are used to create groupings of concepts, without implying broader/narrower relationships among the members.
Highlights absence of hierarchical implications and use of skos:member.
RELATED TERMS
SKOS Concept Preferred Label Alternative Label Hidden Label Scope Note Notation Member Concept Group Thesaurus
COMPETING TERMS
KNOWLEDGE AREAS
Semantic & Knowledge Modeling Metadata Management Data Modeling
TARGET AUDIENCE
Data Steward Information Analyst Data Modeler Data Architect BI Specialist
EXTERNAL SOURCES
- Wikipedia - Simple Knowledge Organization System
- W3C - SKOS collections specification
- W3C - Primer explanation of collections
TOP QUESTIONS
What is a SKOS Collection?
It’s an unordered grouping of concepts for convenience or shared characteristics, without hierarchical implications.
Category: Definition
How do SKOS Collections differ from Concept Schemes?
Collections group concepts ad hoc; schemes define a coherent vocabulary with governance and scope.
Category: Misunderstanding
Why use SKOS Collections?
They support UI navigation, topical bundles, facets, and curated lists without altering the vocabulary’s hierarchy.
Category: Relevancy
How are members recorded in a SKOS Collection?
Use the skos:member property to associate concepts with the collection.
Category: Requirements
What risks exist with SKOS Collections?
Overusing collections can fragment navigation and confuse users if themes overlap excessively.
Category: Risk
Can SKOS Collections be nested?
Yes, collections can contain other collections, enabling multi-level groupings.
Category: Opinion
How are SKOS Collections visualized?
As groups or lists of concepts separate from taxonomic trees, often displayed in filters or navigation menus.
Category: Example
Where to learn more about SKOS Collections?
Consult the SKOS Primer and SKOS Reference sections on collections.
Category: Overview
Are SKOS Collections part of governance?
They can be curated, but governance typically centers on the concept scheme and its policies.
Category: Management