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There are five different layers to specificity which are based upon the layers of the Cognitive Model. (See xapend.i_cog_model).

Figure 1: Cognitive Model

1. Data - Data that is a raw concept; it simply exists and has no significance beyond its existence (in and of itself). It is the basis upon which Information concepts are built
2. Information - A concept aggregating data concepts together, in other words, Data that has been given meaning by way of relational connection
3. Knowledge - A concept relating appropriate collection of Information concepts together, such that it's intent is useful
4. Understanding - An interpolative and probabilistic concept that reflects Wisdom concepts
5. Wisdom - An extrapolative and nondeterministic, non-probabilistic concept which is built upon Understanding concepts.

The flow between the cognitive layers is bidirectional and can have many-to-many relationships. For example, any particular Wisdom concept can be associated with any number of Understanding concepts. The inverse is also true; Understanding concepts can also be used to help support any number of Wisdom Concepts.

• data
• information
• knowledge
• understanding
• wisdom