ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that how geodemographic classifications can be evaluated both quantitatively, for their relative discriminatory power, and qualitatively, to assess classification features against user requirements. Cross tabulations between classification typology have shown neighbourhoods possessing similar characteristics between the typologies. Quantitative evaluation will be complete using a total weighted deviation (TWD) method to examine the predictive power of classifications across a range of variables; and Lorenz Curves and Gini Coefficients to examine a single application of predicting the participation rates of young entrants to Higher Education. Through the comparison of OAC with Mosaic, it was also possible to see which Mosaic Groups are informed by data related to income, and which are absent from OAC. A series of classification were compared using a total weighted deviation and Gini Coefficients. These measure the ability for classification to account for variations in participation rates, and disaggregated participation behaviours at course and institution level.
