Proposed TNRS architecture

This page summarizes results of discussion by architecture subgroup.

Essentially two models were proposed

(1) TNRS embedded within TROPICOS as an internal application. Would use mostly existing taxonomy within TROPICOS database, with additional nomenclatural input from IPNI, and glolbal checklist produced in collaboration with IPNI/Kew. Would allow for rapid development due to internal consistency of TROPICOS database and applications. Not clear how external sources of synonymy would be incorporated. Could provide excellent and largely complete coverage for Americas, but less so for for rest of the world or "Tree of Life" as a whole.Building TNRS within TROPICOS would enable use of additional resources within TROPICOS database, such as regional occurence data and literature. This version was presented by Chuck Miller.

(2) TNRS as external application, with external sources of names and synonymy mapped to core db via common schema incorporating elements of Taxon Concept Schema (http://www.tdwg.org/standards/117/). Taxonomic data would come various source, including but not limited to TROPICOS. Would require longer development time, in particular due to conflicts in content between different taxonomic sources. Would ultimately enable more global/phylogenetically complete coverage. Open model more amenable to collaboration outside of TROPICOS, particular iPlant developers. Two slightly different versions of the this model were presented by Brad Boyle and Paul Morris.

For diagrams of the models discussed, see TNRS_architecture