Yes, I fully understand the arguments and engineering trade-offs in the areas of tagging and taxonomies.
In our case, on this site, here is my estimate of the problem of tagging on UNIX.COM today:
- 90% Lack of members tagging threads.
- 10% Issues with similar tags (not fully harmonized)
So, I'm more interested in focusing on the 90% problem and not the 10% (or less issue).
When the balance reverses (and becomes a serious problem), we can address the problem of harmonization and similar tags; but for the foreseeable future, the focus should be tagging without any worry or concern about similar tags, etc.
When I see there is a bonafide problem in the tag space, I will address; but for now, I really think it is not an issue.
Also, moderators and admins can add and delete (and change) tags. It's fun and just takes a second to delete misspelled tags, delete unnecessary tag variations or add additional tags to thread.
Thanks.