Functional Classification

As indicated above, it is highly probable that improvements will be made to the procedure for coding words, to the classification schemes used, and to the various computer programmes used in selecting organizations for allocation to one or more categories. It is also expected that greater use will be made of "manual" coding methods to handle the more subtly defined subjects as well as categories of organizations. This will permit better treatment of subjects denoted by compound words.

Part of the original intention was to experiment, with patterns which highlight and clarify functional relationships. Ideally the matrix should help to show how different functional concerns are related to, or distant from, one another. In its present form it offers a healthier approach to the insidious problems created by the "pecking order" in the sciences. This is reflected in university departments and the perceptions of intergovernmental agencies (or their divisions) of the relative "relevance" of certain functions.

1. Matrix (1983-85)

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:

The Yearbook of International Organizations (Volume 1) in 2003 describes or lists over 25,979 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. Although organizations are listed in alphabetical order of titles and abbreviations in Volume 1 of the Yearbook and a multilingual index is provided in this volume, this nevertheless fails to provide an ordered, comprehensible overview of how such activities interrelate.

Commentary on an experimental subject configuration for the exploration of interdisciplinary relationships between organizations, problems, strategies, values and human development¹

This article is about an experimental subject configuration for the exploration of interdisciplinary relationships between organizations, problems, strategies, values and human development, from the Yearbook of International Organizations.

This article is about an experimental subject configuration for the exploration of interdisciplinary relationships between organizations, problems, strategies, values and human development, from the Yearbook of International Organizations.