Classification Made Simple (3rd ed.)

Citation

Trickey, K. (2010), "Classification Made Simple (3rd ed.)", New Library World, Vol. 111 No. 9/10, pp. 442-443. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801011089378

It is always a pleasure to catch up with an old friend, so it is with Hunter's book. This work has been kept to hand since first published in 1988, then the second edition in 2002, and now in a shiny green cover and a third edition. Some 16 pages longer than the second edition this updated classic makes a welcome appearance to carry on the excellent work of the previous editions. The edition has been updated and examples are built from the current editions of the respective classification schemes.

We open with an introduction to classification as a process. This is followed by illustrations of the use of classification in contexts ranging from libraries to wood finishing. Chapters 3 and 4 deal with faceted classification, a topic that deserves more serious consideration by database builders. Hunter then explores hierarchical classification and gives examples of the use of synthesis in hierarchical schemes.

Having identified the two major approaches to building schemes Hunter then provides details on elements common to all classification schemes: notation, schedule and citation order. We are then given a review of the relationship between classification and language based subject indexing and thesauri and the use of classification as a search tool. As systems become more sophisticated in their search capabilities, the significance of a well‐structured classification as a powerful subject search option will become more important. Hunter then briefly reviews the possibilities of classification on the internet. Given the internet is such a rapidly moving target this chapter will date rapidly. Hopefully, the examples given by Hunter will provide evidence of good practice to be emulated.

The level of detailing in the chapters develops step by step this allow the novice to gain telling insights into classification in a limited number of pages. Hunter's text is lucid, however the matters he is dealing with are complex so the judicious student will re‐read a section where they are uncertain – or back track to the previous section to pick up the thread earlier to establish clarity before proceeding. This will allow for the secure development of your understanding of the topics covered.

In the wonderful world of web 2 and associated mash ups it is reassuring that this work continues in print. As the digital world seems determined to spawn chaos on the net by the overindulgent personal customising of data, the principles that Hunter outlines remain a beacon of hope for the successful structuring of data in databases large and small. Data structuring groans under the shameful record of poorly articulated content that is virtually impossible to navigate unless you were the originator of the data structure, Hunter has again done an excellent job to try and stem this rising tide.