DataTags & Search
DataTags are structured metadata fields you attach to items. They make your content searchable and filterable across every environment, even as your library grows into hundreds of items.
What DataTags are
Every item in Knovis can carry a set of metadata fields: a title, description, keywords, notes, date, link, and more. These fields are called DataTags. They're separate from the item's label and thumbnail; they're the information layer beneath the surface.
You fill in DataTags in the item dialog under the DataTags tab. They're stored with the item file, so they follow the item wherever it's placed.
Standard fields
| Field | Use it for |
|---|---|
| Title | The full name of the content (distinct from the canvas label) |
| Description | A short summary, one or two sentences |
| Keywords | Searchable tags, semicolon-separated |
| Notes | Your personal observations, context, or reminders |
| Date | Publication date, air date, or any relevant date |
| Link | A related web URL (separate from the item's target) |
| Collection Role | How this item fits in the collection (e.g. Overview, Reference, Deep Dive) |
| Flagged | Mark items you want to surface quickly |
Keywords
Keywords are the most flexible field. Separate them with semicolons: research; history; primary source; 2024. Use them to describe topic, category, source, status, or whatever helps you find things later. The more consistently you tag, the more useful search becomes.
Searching
The search bar at the top of the window searches across all DataTag fields of all items in your library, not just the current environment. Type any keyword, part of a title, or a phrase from a description, and matching items appear in the results panel.
From the results panel you can open an item, jump to an environment it appears in, or drag it onto the current canvas.
Saved searches
A search can be saved as an item. The saved search item always reflects the current results; it's a live filter that updates as your library changes. Place it on a canvas and it shows a grid of whatever currently matches the search criteria. This is useful for building dynamic views like "all flagged items" or "everything tagged with a specific keyword."
Custom DataTag templates
The standard fields cover most use cases, but Knovis lets you design your own metadata schemas using the DataTag Editor. Custom templates can define their own field names, types, and option lists, which is useful for collections with specific organizational needs like research archives, course curricula, or media libraries.