Classification Scheme

Classification is the process of grouping related items together. It makes retrieving information easier by using a controlled set of terms to describe records. This way, everybody is using the same language to title and index records.

Classification aims to create folders that accurately describe the contents of the folder, not the organisation of the person who sent the documents. This guarantees that relevant information can be found over long periods of time and reduces dependence on remembering the name of the organisation that sent the record.

The classification scheme consists of broad headings or keywords. These keywords are followed by more explicit words, activity descriptors that further describe the keyword. There may be more than one descriptor used but they are always used in the same order. For example:

TREES – NATIVES – BANKSIA
forms a hierarchical arrangement that further describes a type of tree and the species.

If the classification scheme does not have a suitable keyword or activity descriptor, please complete the Request for Change to Classification Scheme.