Classification paths and hierarchies
You can develop a classification structure by joining two or more classifications into a hierarchy. In a classification hierarchy, the next level up is called the parent, and the next level down is called the child. Each child (which is also a classification) can become a parent and can have its own child levels. This pattern can continue indefinitely. The structure from the top-level parent to the child is called the classification path.
You can also use a numbering system in which a number describes the position of the classification in the classification structure. The number of digits describes the level in the hierarchy. Numbering systems are suitable only if they are not subject to change, because the identifier of the classification (PUMP, 30612456, ROTARY) cannot be changed. The identifier can be deleted only if it is not used in a classification hierarchy.
Example of a request for information
Someone calls the service desk to get information about the facilities. The service desk uses classifications to categorize the ticket as an informational request. The ticket is associated with the classification path INFORMATIONAL QUESTIONS \ FACILITIES \ WHERE DO I.

Example of a request for software installation
Someone contacts the service desk and requests a Microsoft Windows XP installation. A service request and change ticket are created. The ticket is associated with the classification path IT \ SOFTWARE \ INSTALLS \ WINDOWS XP Professional.
10 minutes later, the service desk receives a printer-related call. The service desk can use the same classification structure to classify the printer incident ticket as was used to categorize the earlier request.
