Faceted Classification Schemes offer a flexible, multidimensional approach to organizing information, allowing multiple characteristics (or facets) of a subject to be represented simultaneously. This system is especially useful for handling complex and interdisciplinary subjects.
Key Features of Faceted Classification Schemes
1. Division into Fundamental Categories (Facets)
Faceted systems break down subjects into basic categories or facets, each representing a different characteristic of the subject.
- Example from Colon Classification (by Dr. S. R. Ranganathan):
- P – Personality (Main subject)
- M – Matter (Material or property of the subject)
- E – Energy (Processes or activities related to the subject)
- S – Space (Geographical location)
- T – Time (Chronological aspect)
2. Flexibility and Scalability
Faceted classification allows for the combination of facets in various ways, offering flexibility to represent complex or new subjects without restructuring the entire system.
- Example:You can classify "History of Mathematics in Europe during the 19th Century" by combining facets of subject (Mathematics), time (19th Century), and space (Europe).
3. Synthesis of Class Numbers
In faceted systems, class numbers are synthesised by combining notations from different facets, often using symbols like colons, commas, or periods.
- Example:In Colon Classification, B3:5 could represent Algebra (B3) applied to Engineering (5).
4. Hospitality to New Subjects
Faceted classification schemes are open-ended and can easily accommodate new fields of knowledge without disrupting the existing structure.
- Example:New technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence or Quantum Computing can be added by combining relevant facets.
5. Analytical Approach
Faceted classification employs an analytical-synthetic method:
- Analytical: Breaking down complex subjects into their fundamental facets.
- Synthetic: Recombining these facets to form specific, detailed class numbers.
6. Mnemonics and Predictability
Faceted systems often use mnemonics (memory aids) to make classification easier to learn and predict. Symbols or specific notations are consistently applied.
- Example:The use of S for Space or T for Time across classifications in Colon Classification.
7. Useful for Multidisciplinary Subjects
Faceted classification is particularly effective for interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary topics where multiple aspects of knowledge intersect.
- Example:Environmental Impact of Industrial Engineering in Asia (2020s) can be classified by combining environmental science, engineering, geography, and time facets.
8. Compatibility with Digital and Online Systems
Faceted systems are well-suited for digital libraries, databases, and online catalogues, where users can filter or refine searches based on multiple facets like subject, date, author, and location.
- Example:E-commerce websites like Amazon use faceted navigation allowing users to filter products by brand, price, ratings, etc.
Advantages of Faceted Classification Schemes
- Greater Flexibility: Can handle complex, evolving, and interdisciplinary subjects.
- Ease of Expansion: New topics can be added without restructuring the system.
- User-Friendly: Facilitates easy navigation, especially in digital environments.
- Precision in Classification: Allows for detailed and specific categorisation.
- Supports Advanced Searching: Ideal for databases and digital catalogues where multi-faceted filtering is common.
Examples of Faceted Classification Systems
- Colon Classification (CC) – Developed by Dr. S. R. Ranganathan.
- Art & Architecture Thesaurus (AAT) – Used in museums and cultural institutions.
- BSO (Broad System of Ordering) – Developed for international information systems.
- Facet-based online catalogues – Used in digital libraries and e-commerce platforms for advanced search filtering.