Matrix (1983-85)

As stressed above the classification is designed to be modified. For the 1983-85 editions the design can best be described in terms of the classification matrix and specifically in terms of the definition of its 'semantic cells' on the basis of the levels (rows) and columns in Figure 7. As pointed out above, the choice of levels, columns and cells resulted from an iterative process aimed at ensuring an interesting and functionally meaningful balance within the pattern as a whole.

With the switch in emphasis from pure classification to one in which functional relationships are to be highlighted, it is clear that any resultant matrix can usefully be compared with models of human social systems. One of the most interesting theoretical explorations of this kind is the investigation of Erich Jantsch as reflected in three volumes (19,20,21).

The current procedure resulted from design interaction between the following steps or approaches.

The design envisaged was perceived as a compromise between three major 'orientations': production of a practical classified directory; facilitation of experiments on classifications to develop improved versions; and an emphasis on incorporating richer patterns of relationships between activities to facilitate understanding of functional integration. These are detailed separately below.

1. Practical orientation

In the light of the above survey, the factors affecting the design of a practical system may be summarized as follows:

Reproduced from A Piutti 1925

("lanthanides" and "actinides" not shown)

(inverted and with "lanthanides", 58-71, and "actinides", 90-103, not shown)

Reproduced from J W Spronsen. The Periodic System of Chemical Emements: a history of the first hundred years. Amsterdam, 1969

The Yearbook of International Organizations (Volume 1) in 1996 describes or lists over 28,036 bodies which can in some way be considered international organizations. Whether governmental or nongovernmental, their activities interweave in a myriad ways in the processes of the international community.

Sections of this Article (accessed via the links on the right)

• Introduction
• Design considerations
• Design procedure
• Functional self-organization
• Implementation
• Pattern interpretation possibilities
• Envisaged developments
• Comments
• Conclusion
• References