About Maps

DNE Maps manages information and processes in terms of maps. Each map is composed of one or more kNowledge Element or NE (represented by geometrical shapes in the example but can be represented by any graphic), each of which can mange any amount of information, either in the form of a database entry in the green fields area or as a file in any format linked to the NE.

Click any object on the map above to find a quick description.

Central NE

Maps are always viewed context sensitively, with the central NE as the "you are here" point. Whichever NE is central (in the example, Association), that NE provides the context for the map. All information displayed on the map is displayed in relation to the central NE. The other visible NEs are all related to the central NE in some way, and their locations and the connecting lines say how they are related. Context-sensitivity means that not all NEs necessarily appear on the map: there may be other NEs on the map that cannot be seen, but those NEs do not stand in a relation to the central NE.

Associated NEs

All NEs are represented graphically, and the graphic can represent the NEs function in the map. In the example, the hexagons, squares and circles each represent different kinds of things. Map builders using the DNE determine what shapes and images to use in the maps they build. Maps are always read from left to right. The NEs on the left of the central NE have an impact on the central NE, directly or indirectly, while the NEs on the right of the central NE are impacted on by the central NE, directly or indirectly. This means that you can always tell the relation between the central NE and any other NE on the map. Note that direct as well as indirect relations are displayed on the map: Association is related directly to R1, and related indirectly to R3, via R1.

Fields

Structured information - both fixed and user-determined meta-data - on all NEs and all files can be accessed on the fields area, which is the green area on the NE. There are three pages of user-determined fields that can be updated in DNE Maps, plus a fourth page of fixed properties. Fields come in the following varieties: books and text labels, check boxes, lists, ranks and dates.

Files

Like NEs, files can also have fields. Files are listed in the bottom, charcoal-colored area of the NE.