Hovedgrupper

Hovedgrupper is a Norwegian term used to describe the main categories or primary groupings within a classification system. The word combines hoved meaning "main" or "chief" and grupper meaning "groups." In practice, hovedgrupper occupy the highest level in a hierarchical taxonomy and provide an overview of the subject area, while more detailed items are organized into undergrupper or subcategories.

The exact meaning and scope of hovedgrupper can vary by field, standard, or dataset. They are intended to support data analysis and reporting by aggregating related items into a manageable number of broad categories. Hovedgrupper are commonly used in statistical classifications, cataloging, and data schemas to structure information so that users can navigate, summarize, and compare data more easily.

In many contexts, a dataset or classification starts with a set of hovedgrupper. Each hovedgruppe may contain multiple undergrupper that describe more specific topics, sectors, or phenomena. For example, in an employment dataset, hovedgrupper might include sectors such as industry, public administration, and services; within each, undergrupper detail specific occupations or activities. In health or education classifications, hovedgrupper group broad domains like diseases, treatments, or subject areas.

Hovedgrupper are often defined in a data dictionary or metadata documentation to ensure consistent interpretation across datasets and organizations. See also undergrupper, klassifikasjon, and kategorisering.