Classification of Data
Classification of Data
Classification of data
Preamble
Data classification is a simple concept. It is a scheme by which the organization assigns a level of sensitivity and an owner to each piece of information that it owns & maintains.
For
example: In a Hospital a data classification scheme would identify every piece of data from cafeteria menu to patient medical records.
Definitions
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The process of arranging data into homogenous group or classes according to some common characteristics present in the data. Data classification is the categorization of data for its most effective and efficient use
For example: Letters are classified according to the cities, areas, streets etc etc.
Data can be classified acc. to any criteria, not only relative importance or frequency of use.
For example: data can be classified according to its content, file type, file size megabytes or gigabytes.
Bases of classification
Qualitative Base:
When data are classified acc. to some quality. e.g. Intelligence, Literacy. When data are classified acc. to quantitative characteristics.e.g.Weights, heights ages.
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.Quantitative Base:
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Geographical Base:
When data are classifieds by geographical regions or locations. e.g. cities, provinces.
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Chronological Base:
When data are classified by their time of occurrence. e.g. years, months, weeks, days
Types of classification
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One-way classification:
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Two-way classification:
3.Multi-way classification:
Classification of data
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Acc. to nature:
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Acc. To source:
Quantitative data: Information obtained from numeral variables (e.g. age, bills) Qualitative data: Information obtained from variables in form of characteristics (e.g. birthdays, gender)
Primary data:
Secondary data:
4.According to measurement:
Discrete data: Whole numbers only Obtained through counting (corporate stocks) Continuous data: Decimals or fractions Obtained through measuring (volume of liquids)
5.According to arrangement:
Ungrouped data:
No specific arrangement
Grouped data:
Organized set of data
Purpose
The purpose of this data classification is provide a system for protecting information that is critical to the organization. All workers who may come into contact with confidential information are expected to familiarize themselves and use it constantly.
Practical tips:
We must apply those schemes for data classification for which we have resources and we can implement easily. Management should support data classification. Classification strategy should be approved by management. It should be followed strictly and it can benefit in several Ways.