[Sigcr-l] defining classification

[Susanne M Humphrey]

The reason I searched google for
classing classification

is that I had a vague memory of someone imprinting on me the distinction, which 
is classification is devising the classification scheme and classing is 
implementing the scheme.  I wish I could recall where I first heard the classing 
vs classification distinction.  The only person who comes to mind is Irene 
Travis.  Alternatively, perhaps it was the ISKO (Ingetraut Dahlberg, etc) crowd.

I might add that I don't think "classing" has caught on, and people still use 
classification for both classing and classification. 

The google search had several references to classing of cotton.  I then did 
google search:
classing definition
with results in which classing of wool prevailed.  Of particular interest:

www.wordiq.com/definition/Wool
with a link to:
www.wordiq.com/definition/Wool_classing

This latter Web page defines wool classing as a profession designed for the sole 
purpose of grading the spinning capacity or designated purpose for the wool 
produced.  The characteristics which a wool classer may examine are:  wool 
crimp, wool strength, and wool colour.

Albeit a brief one, I would suggest that crimp, strength, and colour comprise 
the classification scheme by which the classer classes (not classifies) the wool 
at hand.

Susanne Humphrey