Listening field note
Why define topics instead of only adding tags?
A short project-specific definition helps indexers and recipients apply a topic consistently, distinguishes nearby concepts, and makes the exported passage set more understandable without claiming an ontology or automatic thematic analysis.
Use a bounded vocabulary
Hundreds of improvised tags can recreate the search problem. Start with the concepts needed for the project decision. Write the decision in plain language and retain the original source separately so the index can be audited against something outside the browser project.
Review definitions with examples
A label such as access or repair can mean different things across projects; state what qualifies in this interview set. Review the result as a retrieval aid rather than a conclusion. Human-authored fields must remain visibly distinct from exact source-derived text.
Do not infer from word frequency
A segment can concern a topic without naming it, and a repeated word can be irrelevant. Human judgment stays explicit. Carry the limitation into the frozen edition and passive handoff so a recipient can understand what was checked, what was not checked, and what remains their responsibility.