Classification as analytical tool for recreation planning

Abstract

This contribution demonstrates how classification procedures, based on the identification of needs, can enhance the effectivity of recreation planning. The use of classification procedures in recreation planning is briefly examined and an overview of several classifica­tion procedures is given. From this discussion, certain deductions are made about the nature and use of classification as an analytical tool, and reasons are given for the necessity of an approach that uses the identifica­tion of needs as a guiding principle for classification procedures. The taxono­my of Bradshaw (1972) was used as the basis for determining the recre­ation needs of specific communities. This taxonomy accommodates a variety of variables such as the opinions of respondents, authorities and experts and had been modified by adopting appropriate definitions of needs. Five categories of needs were used. The paper illustrates by means of an example how recreational facilities can be classified on the basis of the determi­nation of heeds and that this methodo­logy can form the basis for planning which seeks to satisfy recreation needs. Planning can then proceed more effectively, since it can be done in conjunction with a classification based on the community’s specific needs, and recreation provision can be made in a more successful and more cost-effective way.