Transformation Plots

The different levels at which each variable can be scaled impose different restrictions on the quantifications. Transformation plots illustrate the relationship between the quantifications and the original categories resulting from the selected optimal scaling level. For example, a linear transformation plot results when a variable is treated as numerical. Variables treated as ordinal result in a nondecreasing transformation plot. Transformation plots for variables treated nominally that are U-shaped (or the inverse) display a quadratic relationship. Nominal variables could also yield transformation plots without apparent trends by changing the order of the categories completely. The following figure displays a sample transformation plot.

Transformation plots are particularly suited to determining how well the selected optimal scaling level performs. If several categories receive similar quantifications, collapsing these categories into one category may be warranted. Alternatively, if a variable treated as nominal receives quantifications that display an increasing trend, an ordinal transformation may result in a similar fit. If that trend is linear, numerical treatment may be appropriate. However, if collapsing categories or changing scaling levels is warranted, the analysis will not change significantly.