Context - Current GSIM Cardinality:
Classification Item:
Classification Item 1..* Level (Mandatory, Many)
- Classification Item is grouped by Level
- A Classification Item must have at least one Level
Classification Scheme:
Classification Scheme 1..* Classification Item (Mandatory, Many)
- Classification Scheme contains Classifications Item
- A Classification Scheme must have at least one Classification Item
Classification Scheme 0..* Level (Option, Many)
- Classification Scheme has Level
- A Classification Scheme does not have to have Level
Issue:
If a Classification Item is required to have at least one Level and a Classification Scheme is required to have at least one Classification Item, then by inference a Classification Scheme will require at least one Level. This is contrary to the current GSIM definition of Classification Scheme.
Solution Options:
Option A: Classification Scheme has Mandatory Level
Change the definition of Classification Scheme such that it must contain at least one Level.
- Classification Scheme 1..* Level (Mandatory, Many)
Option B: Classification Item has Optional Level
Change the definition of Classification Item such that it is optional to be grouped by a Level.
- Classification Item 0..* Level (Optional, Many)
Recommendation:
Option A is recommended for the following reasons:
- It is generally accepted that a classification is hierarchical, even if it is a single level hierarchy.
- It allows for a Classification Item to be linked to one level currently; and in the future if other levels are required they can be added without the necessity to create a new Classification Item which is linked to a Level.