Multi-Level Integrated Classifications Based on the 2001 Census

The purpose of this thesis is to describe and explain the processes and decisions that were
involved in the creation of the National Area Classification of 2001 Census Output Areas
(OAs). The thesis describes the creation of the classification: selection of the variables,
assembly of the classification database, the methods of standardisation and the clustering
procedures, together with some discussion of alternative methodologies that were considered for
use. The processes used for creating the clusters, their naming and description are outlined. The
classification is mapped and visualised in a number of different ways.

In order to enable a classification of OAs to be possible the document starts with a review of the
history of area classification and issues surrounding its future development. The methodological
and theoretical issues in the creation of a classification system are also discussed. In order to test
out the practicalitie s of creating a classification system, a classification of UK local authorities
was created prior to the construction of the OA classification.

The thesis describes the quality assurance procedures that the OA classification was put
through. This included an innovative consultation exercise. This ensured that the classification
was of enough quality and without error, enabling it to be published as a ‘National Statistic’.
Examples of use of the classification are presented, outlining the value and relevance of the
classification to social research. The OA classification is connected to other scales of
classification to form a multi-scale classification system enabling the socio-demographic pattern
of the UK to be examined at multiple scales.

The project had to overcome numerous methodological issues due to the size of dataset that was
used. The project used a new methodology to create the first free-to-use small scale
classification of the UK. The classification was published as a ‘National Statistic’ on the 29th
July 2005 and is freely available . The classification can be downloaded from the ONS website
at http://www.statistics.gov.uk/about/methodology_by_theme/area_classification/oa/default.asp
or via the School of Geography, University of Leeds website at:
http://www.geog.leeds.ac.uk/people/d.vickers/OAclassinfo.html. Alternatively it can be ordered
on CD by contacting info@statistics.gov.uk. The publication of the classification as a ‘National
Statistic’ has created a resource that can be used by private, public and academic researchers.