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
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.