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ISO 25964-2:2013 — Thesauri Interoperability with Other Vocabularies
Mapping strategies between thesauri, classifications, taxonomies, ontologies, and terminologies
1. Mapping Structural Models
ISO 25964-2:2013 addresses interoperability between thesauri and other vocabularies including classification schemes, taxonomies, subject heading schemes, ontologies, and terminologies. Three structural models are defined. Structural Unity merges vocabularies into one system. Direct-Linked maintains separate vocabularies with pairwise mappings. Hub Structure uses an intermediate schema as a switching point, reducing complexity from O(n²) to O(n) for multiple vocabularies.
Hub structure is ideal for digital libraries and enterprise data portals needing to connect many vocabularies efficiently.
| Model | Complexity | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Unity | High initial | Low | System migration |
| Direct-Linked | O(n²) | High | Two-system integration |
| Hub Structure | O(n) | Medium | Multi-vocabulary portals |
2. Equivalence and Mapping Types
The standard distinguishes simple equivalence (one-to-one), compound equivalence (many-to-one or one-to-many), and complex equivalence (many-to-many). Simple equivalence is straightforward. Compound equivalence requires Boolean operators for proper search implementation. Inexact equivalence addresses overlapping meanings between terms from different vocabularies. The standard recommends recording confidence values and specific mapping types based on semantic overlap. Chapter 14 covers computer-assisted techniques including string matching, co-occurrence analysis, and structure-based methods, while emphasizing that human review remains essential for quality assurance.
Compound equivalence requires careful Boolean operator selection that significantly affects search recall and precision.
3. Vocabulary Types: Classifications, Taxonomies, Ontologies
Chapter 17 covers classification schemes using hierarchical notation and enumerated classes. Chapter 19 addresses enterprise taxonomies with simpler hierarchical structures. Chapter 21 covers ontologies using RDF/OWL with inference rules beyond traditional thesauri. Chapter 20 covers subject heading schemes and Chapter 22 covers terminologies including ISO 1087. The mapping data model (Chapter 15) tracks provenance including creator, date, validity period, and confidence level for production environment management.
ISO 25964-2 supports SKOS-to-OWL conversions, bridging informal vocabulary control and formal knowledge representation for semantic web applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can mappings use SKOS?
A: Yes. Properties align with skos:exactMatch, closeMatch, broadMatch, narrowMatch, and relatedMatch.
A: Yes. Properties align with skos:exactMatch, closeMatch, broadMatch, narrowMatch, and relatedMatch.
Q: Handling different granularity?
A: Use compound equivalence with Boolean operators or hierarchical expansion per Clause 11.
A: Use compound equivalence with Boolean operators or hierarchical expansion per Clause 11.
Q: Maintaining mappings over time?
A: Clause 15.3 recommends version-controlled stores with audit trails, expiry dates, and periodic reviews.
A: Clause 15.3 recommends version-controlled stores with audit trails, expiry dates, and periodic reviews.
Q: Are automated mapping techniques covered?
A: Chapter 14 covers computer-assisted methods but emphasizes human review for quality assurance.
A: Chapter 14 covers computer-assisted methods but emphasizes human review for quality assurance.
