Reference guide
Understanding the language of the platform
The following definitions explain the terms used throughout Kestelwick. They are not technical specifications but practical explanations intended to help users understand how the platform works and how to interpret the language used across its pages.
Classification
The process by which an item of information is assessed and assigned to one or more categories within the Kestelwick system. Classification reflects judgements about the item's subject matter, its relationship to existing content, and its appropriate position in the category hierarchy.
Category
A defined grouping within the Kestelwick platform that brings together items sharing a common subject area or theme. Categories are arranged hierarchically, with top-level categories subdivided into more specific subcategories as the content warrants.
Subcategory
A more specific grouping within a parent category. Subcategories allow the platform to maintain a navigable structure even when a top-level category contains a large volume of material. Not all categories have subcategories; their presence depends on the volume and diversity of the content in that area.
Item
An individual unit of information within the Kestelwick system. Each item has been classified into at least one category and is presented in the platform's standard review format. Items are the basic unit of content that users read and examine.
Cross-reference
An editorial link between two or more items that share a meaningful relationship beyond their primary category placement. Cross-references are added by the Kestelwick team and reflect genuine thematic or contextual connections rather than superficial keyword similarity.
Arrangement
The order in which items are presented within a category or subcategory. Arrangement reflects the internal logic of that particular area of the system — which may be chronological, thematic, or based on relevance — and is maintained as new items are added.
Review
The act of reading and examining information presented within the Kestelwick platform. The review environment is designed to present content clearly and without distraction. Reviewing an item does not imply agreement with its contents or confirmation of its accuracy.
Navigation
The system of links and structural markers that allows users to move through the Kestelwick platform. Navigation reflects the classification structure, so that the path a user takes through the platform mirrors the way in which content has been organised.
Enquiry
A message submitted to the Kestelwick team through the enquiry form. Enquiries may relate to general questions about the platform, requests for access, support queries, or feedback about the classification of specific content. All enquiries are reviewed by the team.
Access
The ability to view and work with content within the Kestelwick platform. Access is not automatic and is arranged through the enquiry process. The scope of access granted to an individual or organisation depends on the nature of their request and the team's assessment of suitability.
Scope
The defined subject area covered by the Kestelwick platform. Scope determines what categories exist within the system and what kinds of content are considered appropriate for classification. Material that falls outside the scope is not included regardless of its quality.
Structure
The overall organisation of the Kestelwick platform, including the relationship between categories, subcategories, and items, the navigation layer, and the presentation format used for individual content. The structure is maintained deliberately and is adjusted as the content of the platform evolves.
Using this reference
The definitions above reflect how these terms are used within the Kestelwick platform specifically. Some of them have broader meanings in other contexts, including in information science, library classification, or computing. Where Kestelwick's usage differs from a more general meaning, the definition above takes precedence for the purposes of understanding this platform.
If you encounter a term used within the platform that is not explained here, or if a definition is unclear, please use the enquiry form to let the team know. We will consider adding or revising entries accordingly.