Build taxonomies that support retrieval
Course overview · 4 min reading + 12 min practice, estimated
Principles and method
A taxonomy organises terms so people can find and compare relevant records. Define concepts, preferred labels, synonyms and boundaries. Job titles are not identical to skills, and skills can have different levels or contexts. Avoid forcing every nuance into a rigid hierarchy. Use a controlled term where consistency helps and retain supporting evidence where interpretation matters. Version the vocabulary and provide a route to propose changes. A term should have an owner and examples so different users apply it similarly.
Worked example
PLC programming and automation engineering overlap but are not interchangeable. The vocabulary links related concepts while recording specific evidence and proficiency context separately.
Put it into practice
Create a ten-term vocabulary with synonyms and two examples of terms that must remain distinct.
Use fictional information and keep your work in your own notes.
Compare your approach: self-review guidance
Define inclusion examples and ambiguous cases. Avoid treating a keyword match as verified competence. Show how an unfamiliar term can be reviewed without immediately creating a duplicate label.
Sources and further reading
Original Academy teaching and fictional examples. These references provide context, not endorsement. Edition 2026.09; updated 2026-09-24.
- GOV.UK: Responsible AI in recruitment
UK guidance on procuring and deploying recruitment AI.
- NIST: AI Risk Management Framework
Voluntary framework for organising AI risks and controls.