# ELAN > ELAN is a tool for creating annotations on multiple layers on audio and video resources **Wikidata**: [Q126084937](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q126084937) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/elan-q126084937 ## Summary ELAN is a software tool designed for creating annotations on multiple layers for audio and video resources. As an instance of software, it functions as a non-tangible executable component of a computer system, serving as a creative work and a utility for processing media data. ## Key Facts - **Primary Function:** ELAN is a tool specifically for creating annotations on multiple layers on audio and video resources. - **Entity Class:** It is an instance of **software** (non-tangible executable component of a computer). - **Classification:** As software, it is a subclass of creative work, written work, means, and product. - **Collections:** ELAN is listed in the **Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace** and the **Text Analysis Portal for Research (TAPOR)**. - **Documentation:** It is described at `tapor.ca/tools/1111` and `marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/G8unY0`. - **Composition:** Like all software, it consists of computer programs and data. - **Academic Study:** The entity falls under the study of software engineering and software studies. ## FAQs ### Q: What specific function does ELAN perform? A: ELAN is used to create annotations on multiple layers specifically for audio and video resources. ### Q: How is ELAN classified within computer systems? A: It is classified as software, which is the non-tangible executable component of a computer, distinct from physical hardware. ### Q: Where can ELAN be found in academic or research directories? A: It is included in the Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace and the Text Analysis Portal for Research (TAPOR). ### Q: What are the structural components of ELAN as a software entity? A: As software, ELAN is composed of computer programs and data, characterized by source code and specific software architecture. ## Why It Matters ELAN matters because it provides the specific executable logic required to analyze and annotate complex media formats like audio and video. By enabling multi-layer annotations, it transforms general-purpose computer hardware into a specialized tool for detailed media analysis. Its presence in specialized repositories like the Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace and TAPOR highlights its relevance in academic and research contexts. As a form of software, it embodies the dual nature of being both a creative written work and a functional product, bridging the gap between raw data (audio/video) and structured knowledge (annotations). ## Notable For - **Multi-layer Annotation:** Specifically designed to handle complex annotation tasks across multiple layers on media resources. - **Audio-Video Processing:** Distinguished by its capability to interact with and annotate time-based media (audio and video). - **Research Utility:** Recognized by and included in specialized research portals like the Text Analysis Portal for Research. - **Non-Tangibility:** Exists as executable logic and data rather than a physical object. ## Body ### Definition and Classification ELAN is formally defined as a tool for creating annotations on multiple layers on audio and video resources. It is a specific instance of **software**, which constitutes the non-tangible executable component of a computer system. Taxonomically, ELAN falls under the subclass of creative work, written work, means, and product. It is functionally the opposite of computer hardware, defined by its lack of physical form and its nature as executable logic. ### Functionality and Application The primary utility of ELAN is the creation of annotations on audio and video resources. This function allows users to layer information onto media files, a process essential for detailed analysis in fields such as social sciences and humanities. As a tool, it serves as a means for a computer to perform logical operations on these specific media types. ### Components and Characteristics As a software entity, ELAN shares the fundamental characteristics of its class: * **Composition:** It is composed of computer programs and associated data. * **Architecture:** It possesses a software architecture and source code. * **Quality Factors:** Its performance is subject to software quality standards and testability. ### Collections and References ELAN is cataloged and described by several key entities and URLs: * **Social Sciences and Humanities Open Marketplace:** A collection where ELAN is listed. * **Text Analysis Portal for Research (TAPOR):** Another collection featuring the tool. * **Described At URL:** The tool is documented at `https://tapor.ca/tools/1111` and `https://marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/G8unY0` (English, retrieved November 2022). ### Context within Software Entities ELAN exists within the broad category of software, which includes diverse implementations ranging from programming languages like **Java** (1995) to productivity tools like **Google Docs Editors** and specialized systems like **Chainlink** (2017). It shares the classification of "software" with these entities, all of which are studied under the disciplines of software engineering and software studies. ## References 1. [Source](https://marketplace.sshopencloud.eu/tool-or-service/G8unY0) 2. [Source](https://tapor.ca/tools/1111)