Knowledge Organization Systems: comparative analysis and modeling of knowledge representation instruments

Objective: The scientific area called Knowledge Organization encompasses the study and development of Knowledge Organization Systems, among which are the glossary, taxonomy, classification system, conceptual map or semantic network, thesaurus and ontology. The objective of this study is to distinguish the main types of Knowledge Organization Systems through a theoretical contextualization and reporting of practical experience. Method: This is a descriptive, qualitative study of an applied nature. Initially, with a scientific article as the domain, a content analysis was conducted using the thematic categorical analysis technique to identify the categories that represented the content. After coding and categorization, six knowledge representation instruments were developed with the help of software (Atlas.ti, CMAP, THESA and Protege). Result: The glossary and faceted taxonomy developed supported the development of the classification system, thesaurus, conceptual map and ontology. For ontology, the most complex instrument, in addition to the faceted taxonomy, the prior elaboration of the conceptual map was essential. Conclusions: The association of theoretical contextualization with practical development enabled greater clarity regarding the distinctive aspects of each instrument, as well as the observation of the interdependence between them. The iterative nature, inherent to the construction process, was highlighted, as well as the importance of using support software.