An Evaluation of Self-Organizing Map Networks as a Robust Alternative to Factor Analysis in Data Mining Applications.

Author List: Kiang, Melody Y.; Kumar, Ajith;

Information Systems Research, 2001, Volume 12, Issue 2, Page 177.

Kohonen's self organizing map (SOM) network is one of the most important nctwork architectures developed during the 1980s. The main function of SOM networks is to map the input data from an n-dimensional space to a lower dimensional (usually one- or two-dimensional) plot while maintaining the original topological relations. Therefore, it can be viewed as an analog of factor analysis. In this research, we evaluate the feasibility of using SOM networks as a robust alternative to factor analysis and clustering for data mining applications. Specifically, we compare SOM network solutions to factor analytic and K-Means clustering solutions on simulated data sets with known underlying factor and cluster structures. The comparisons indicate that the SOM networks provide solutions superior to unrotated factor solutions in general and provide more accurate recovery of underlying cluster structures when the input data are skewed. Our findings suggest that SOM networks can provide robust alternatives to traditional factor analysis and clustering techniques in data mining applications.

Keywords: Clustering Analysis; Data Mining; Data Reductive; Factor Analysis; Kohonen Networks

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#215	0.325	data classification statistical regression mining models neural methods using analysis techniques performance predictive networks accuracy method variables prediction problem measure
#263	0.229	instrument measurement factor analysis measuring measures dimensions validity based instruments construct measure conceptualization sample reliability development develop responses assess use
#81	0.151	applications application reasoning approach cases support hypertext case-based prototype problems consistency developed benchmarking described efficient practical address activity demonstrate effective
#249	0.087	network networks social analysis ties structure p2p exchange externalities individual impact peer-to-peer structural growth centrality participants sharing economic ownership embeddedness
#43	0.060	architecture scheme soa distributed architectures layer discuss central difference coupled service-oriented advantages standard loosely table services classification layered included update
#220	0.053	research study different context findings types prior results focused studies empirical examine work previous little knowledge sources implications specifically provide