Knowledge Management Principle Two of Seven (Rendering Knowledge by David Snowden)
We only know what we know when we need to know it. Human knowledge is deeply contextual and requires stimulus for recall. Unlike computers we do not have a list-all function. Small verbal or nonverbal clues can provide those ah-ha moments when a memory or series of memories are suddenly recalled, in context to enable us to act. When we sleep on things we are engaged in a complex organic form of knowledge recall and creation; in contrast a computer would need to be rebooted.
An important principle both for authoring and creating useful topic maps.
A topic map for repairing a jet engine could well begin by filming the repair multiple times from different angles.
Then have a mechanic describe the process they followed without reference to the video.
The differences are things that need to be explored and captured for the map.
Likewise, a map should not stick too closely to the “bare” facts needed for the map.
People using the map will need context in order to make the best use of its information.
What seems trivial or irrelevant, may be the clue that triggers an appropriate response. Test with users!
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PS: Don’t forget that the context in which a topic map is *used* is also part of its context.