Daily Knowledge Valuation in Organizations

4Classifications and Aggregation of Traces

4.1. Classification

Classification or categorization is defined [COH 05] as the process in which ideas and objects are recognized, differentiated and understood. Categorization implies that objects are grouped into categories, usually for some specific purpose. Ideally, a category illuminates a relationship between the subjects and objects of knowledge. Categorization is fundamental in language, prediction, inference, decision making and in all kinds of environmental interaction. Categorization first appeared in the context of philosophy in the work of Plato who, in his Statesman dialogue [EST 78], introducing the approach of grouping objects based on their similar properties. This approach was further explored and systematized by Aristotle in his categories where he analyzes the differences between classes and objects. Aristotle also intensively applied the classical categorization scheme in his approach to the classification of living beings, thus establishing the basis for natural taxonomy. The classical Aristotelian view claims that categories are discrete entities characterized by a set of properties, which are shared by their members.

It is believed that data can be conceptualized into abstract hierarchized concepts in the human mind. Concepts will then be associated with one another as structured knowledge registered in long-term memory. Thus, classification is crucial in obtaining knowledge. Classification is the meaningful ...