title: Coding: why and how.
abstract: Codes are used in every aspect of our daily lives, and many of the coding schemes in use are inappropriate, poorly implemented, or too fragmented in their coverage. This paper describes various approaches to coding, pointing out their strengths, weaknesses, and most appropriate applications. Those attempting to set up a coding scheme are strongly advised to analyze their needs, select the approach that is best for the application at hand, and carefully monitor the implementation of the coding system they choose. Only by understanding and monitoring our coding schemes can we minimize the amount of inappropriate and exasperating codes in our daily lives.
authors.affiliation: State University of New York, Buffalo.
authors.forename: C W
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Bishop
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Dombrowski
mesh_terms: D003628:Database Management Systems; D004282:Documentation / Q000379:methods*; D012984:Software