Classification – Short Conceptual Explanation

When used in content marketing, the term classification describes the placement of similar elements in an existing web offer, for instance photos, into specific categories. This can make sense when these elements have clearly differing qualities or depict different contents. Doing so makes it possible to undertake a simplified appraisal of the value of the content. Instead of evaluating every element in detail, it is sufficient to appraise the value of each category. Classification is also vital for online searches.

Classification versus categorization

The term classification is often used synonymously with the term categorization. Strictly speaking though, it goes further. Categorization focuses on the factual differentiation of content. For an online shop that sells household goods the categories might include the areas kitchen, bathroom, office, etc. A further diversification in sub-categories such as pots and pans, dishes, cutlery, etc. would be possible in the kitchen category.

In contrast, classification focuses on a differentiation based on value or specific features. In the store presented above, one could define the categories as premium, standard and low-cost versions, for instance for pots and pans or bathtub fittings. However, one must emphasize that a differentiation between the terms classification versus categorization is seldom rigorously carried out in practice. Both terms focus on the separation of elements from web content based on the different features of these elements for the purpose of better structuring, assessment and findability.

Notes regarding classification
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Tagging is essential for online shops

As indicated above, a detailed classification is especially important in online shops. Potential customers browsing in a shop are often overwhelmed by the huge assortment; they therefore want a preselection based on clearly defined product features. This is why it is necessary to tag every item with a keyword. These so-called tags provide a distinctive label. These features can include color, seasonal suitability, materials, allergy tolerance, price level, etc. One could for instance create a category with blue household goods, or a category of mattresses suitable for allergy sufferers in the high-price segment.

If all the products available in the offer are thoroughly and precisely tagged, customers can use the search function of the shop to define their preferred features – the results will then be filtered and appear in a clearly structured list. The same is of course true when a prospective buyer enters these keywords in a search engine.

From feedback evaluation to lead analysis

There are numerous further applications where a classification is extremely useful. These include:

  • User feedback in social media (so-called sentiment analysis): Comments given by customers of a company for a sentiment analysis can be classified as positive, neutral or negative
  • Audio or video files: classification according to language, audibility or target audience
  • Photo galleries: Evaluation of the images with regard to G-rating, quality, content and format
  • Lead analysis: Separating the data sets of potential customers into warm and cold leads based on user behavior

Classification by online agencies

A classification of web content often includes huge amounts of fast moving data; for instance the tens to hundred of thousands of photos or user comments on social media platforms. If these huge amounts of data cannot be electronically evaluated, the company who wants a content analysis almost always lacks the necessary staff to deal with it.

Crowdworking agencies are perfect for these tasks. They have a simply structured, yet flexible workspace and a large number of readily available workers. Instructions for the task are generally of low complexity and easy to understand. High volume jobs can therefore be processed by agencies within a very short amount of time.

Click here for the clickworker service “Categorization & Classification“.