ConnectedText versus Ndxcards

Posted by Stephen Zeoli
Oct 22, 2007 at 06:32 PM

Having dabbled with various wiki-style PIMS (the concept of which I like, but have yet to get over the hurdle of adapting to all the conventions required to use them effectively), it seems to me that there are some functional differences between wiki-style linking and cloning in an outline. In the wiki the connections are instantly visible as you are reviewing the content of the note, whereas you have to look for and search an outline to understand the context. I would also suggest, though this is just my own theory, that the connections in a wiki are more organic—that is, they arise more naturally as the content develops—than in an outline (whether or not this is a benefit probably depends upon your purpose).

Finally, a wiki allows for connections between notes without imposing a judgment about which is the superior thought or idea. That isn’t always benefit, as it is important to be able to create that kind of organization, especially when writing—which, I assume, is why CT has now added the outlining feature.

Steve Z.