The basic assumption in this paper is, that it will be possible to organise data in construction in a non-hierarchical way, following the lines of facet-based classification. This involves tagging data in a horizontal rather than a vertical order

We have experienced a long and intense discussion of how to organise data. At a glance the discussion can seem to be merely technical but indeed it involves a broader perspective regarding different understandings of how to perceive, present and organise knowledge. Actors (consultants – contractors) present solutions that are appropriate in relation to their own specific needs, but at the same time they can be difficult to use for other actors.

Empirical examples from the ongoing Danish debate will be included. A comprehensive and all-embracing system is promoted ("Digital Construction – a government initiative"). Theoretically the paper builds on "classical thinking" represented by the work of Linnés, and connects to contemporary theory on facet-based classification.

Facet-based classification has not affected the thinking in the construction industry. Presumably this is due both to the mental dominance of hierarchical thinking, and the (former) cost of powerful computer hardware. Today it seems obvious to take the facet-based approach into consideration, making it possible to specify ordering of data to the users' practice and frame of reference, rather than fixing the structure of data already when they are saved to the system.
KEYWORDS: Data organization, hierarchical classification, facet classification, user interface, Data filtering