Clustering
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Clustering is a method of pre-qualification for the procurement of construction projects. It applies the concepts of cluster analysis (which is a statistical technique used in many fields, including marketing, social science and computer science) as a classification method often used for data mining purposes.
[edit] What is cluster analysis?
When used in statistics, cluster analysis is used to divide data into groups (clusters) based on similar traits or characteristics. The goal is to identify traits that are meaningful, useful or both.
Cluster analysis refers not to one specific algorithm, but to the general task to be solved. The appropriate clustering algorithm and parameter settings depend on the data being gathered and the intended use of the results. There are roughly 100 different types - but one that is correctly selected can help to resolve an unwieldy or seemingly illogical decision making process.
Consider this example: there are a number of items in a room and each item has a set of characteristics (size, shape or colour). How will the items be grouped? Will it be based on size, shape or colour? This decision may be based on many factors, depending on how many items there are, their properties, priorities and so on.
[edit] Clustering analytics
Construction projects often attract a large number of potential suppliers with numerous characteristics.Under these circumstances, the prequalification process can sometimes require a significant commitment of time and resources.
The cluster analysis technique can be explored to identify common traits. These traits can then be used to group contractors based on their shared characteristics or abilities. Its purpose is to remove subjective rationale behind supplier selection and instead relies more on a pure data-based on evaluation.
Ideally, clustering organises suppliers by assigning values to key selection criteria. The end result is ideally a rational selection process based on evaluating each vendor, assigning a classification making a selection.
The analysis of data may include discerning trends and patterns, their interpretation and communication.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
ECA digital series unveils road to net-zero.
Retrofit and Decarbonisation framework N9 launched
Aligned with LHCPG social value strategy and the Gold Standard.
Competence framework for sustainability
In the built environment launched by CIC and the Edge.
Institute of Roofing members welcomed into CIOB
IoR members transition to CIOB membership based on individual expertise and qualifications.
Join the Building Safety Linkedin group to stay up-to-date and join the debate.
Government responds to the final Grenfell Inquiry report
A with a brief summary with reactions to their response.
A brief description and background to this new February law.
Everything you need to know about building conservation and the historic environment.
NFCC publishes Industry White Paper on Remediation
Calling for a coordinated approach and cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to manage workforce development.
'who blames whom and for what, and there are three reasons for doing that: legal , cultural and moral"
How the Home Energy Model will be different from SAP
Comparing different building energy models.
Mapping approaches for standardisation.
UK Construction contract spending up at the start of 2025
New construction orders increase by 69 percent on December.
Preparing for the future: how specifiers can lead the way
As the construction industry prepares for the updated home and building efficiency standards.
Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment
A practical guide for built environment professionals.
Updating the minimum energy efficiency standards
Background and key points to the current consultation.
Heritage building skills and live-site training.