Authority lists

The input in the ODIS database is systematised and regulated by means of authority lists. Relations between the data entities are also optimised in this way. The use of a limited set of option terms allows for more systematic search operations later.

Since is is difficult to systematise historical facts all at once, this directional input must be set up in an adequately flexible way. For this reason ODIS employs closed and open authority lists.

• The closed lists include a fixed set of pre-agreed terms which normally will not be changed.
• The open authority lists include a basic set of terms that were introduced in advance in a balanced and considered way. These lists can also be supplemented (by a central agent) at the input stage.

At the moment ODIS uses about forty authority lists.