Artifact Decision Tree

Status: Working draft

Purpose

This decision tree supports provisional identity classification after characterization is complete.

Characterize first, classify second.

Use FEMS-1 dimensions before applying the tree.

Decision Order

tool
↓
standard
↓
notation
↓
taxonomy
↓
ontology
↓
model / reference architecture
↓
methodology / process
↓
framework
↓
pattern

Use Rules

• Start with the dominant observed function, not the most familiar label.
• Stop at the first level that clearly explains the artifact's identity.
• Record capabilities separately from identity.
• Do not assign framework grammar unless framework characteristics are present.
• Do not assign primitive composition unless a reasoning structure exists.
• Preserve unresolved ambiguity in notes.

Decision Prompts

Tool

Does the artifact primarily execute work or provide direct operational capability?

Standard

Does the artifact primarily establish requirements, conformance, or mandated consistency?

Notation

Does the artifact primarily provide a syntax or representational convention?

Taxonomy

Does the artifact primarily classify things into categories?

Ontology

Does the artifact primarily define concepts and semantic relationships?

Model / Reference Architecture

Does the artifact primarily represent reality or provide reusable structural guidance?

Methodology / Process

Does the artifact primarily prescribe how work should be performed or sequenced?

Framework

Does the artifact primarily guide reasoning through reusable concepts, relationships, boundaries, and outputs?

Pattern

Does the artifact primarily capture a recurring solution or design move?