Relationships between higher‐order data array configurations and problem formulations in multivariate data analysis

A scaffold for detailed understanding of the concept ‘dimensionality’ in data analysis is furnished by a systematic classification of higher‐order data array configurations. Three major types of problem formulation in multivariate data analysis can be characterized for relevant data classes: 1 data description (intra‐class data structure modelling of inter‐object and inter‐variable relationships) 2 classification (inter‐class discrimination) 3 correlation, regression (inter‐variable relationships).