La Cadena Datos-Information-Knowledge (DIC), called ‘Information Hierarchy’ or ‘Knowledge Piracy’, is one of the most important models in information management and knowledge management. In general, the structure of the chain has been defined as an architecture in which each element is raised on the next lower element; however, there is no consensus on the definition of the elements, nor on the processes that transform an element from one level to one of the next level. This article reviews the Data-Information Chain and Knowledge by examining the most relevant definitions of its elements and its articulation in the literature, in order to synthesise the most common meanings. The elements of the DIC chain are analysed since Peirce’s semiotic; this approach allows us to clarify the meanings and identify the differences, relationships and roles they play in the chain from the point of view of pragmatism. Finally, a definition of the CID Chain is proposed based on the triadic categories of signs and unlimited Peirce semiosis, Stamper’s sign system levels and Zeleny metaphors.