Non-locational

Describes something that does not depend on or relate to a specific place or position. It refers to concepts, data, or processes that are independent of geographic coordinates or spatial references. This term often applies in contexts such as data analysis, abstract modeling, and the study of relationships where physical location is irrelevant. non-locational information emphasizes attributes and interactions without considering geographical context, focusing instead on characteristics, connections, or chronological order. The focus is on the 'what' and 'how,' not necessarily the 'where.' It often deals with concepts which are universal and can be applied anywhere, not tied to a single location.

Non-locational meaning with examples

• In a customer relationship management (CRM) system, the analysis of customer purchase history is often non-locational. The focus is on buying habits, preferences, and frequency, regardless of where the customers physically live or shop, allowing companies to tailor promotions and marketing to the person themselves. The value comes in the information, not its location.
• A time-series analysis of stock market fluctuations is a non-locational process. The data concerns stock values over time, irrespective of where the stocks are traded. The focus here is on patterns and trends in price movements, which are inherently non-locational, facilitating predictions and insights.
• Network analysis, such as studying the spread of information across social media, is often non-locational. The focus is on connections, interactions, and the propagation of content, not the geographical location of users. Therefore, this makes its influence and patterns very complex.
• A study on the psychological impact of trauma, analyzing shared emotional responses across different groups, is fundamentally non-locational. The location of the trauma is of secondary importance compared to the shared experiences and the mental processes of the victims, providing a global outlook.
• Algorithms that determine the best route for package delivery, prioritising time and cost efficiency over geographic positioning, may use non-locational data. The process can evaluate factors independent of the address, focusing more on the relationship of routes, time, and delivery success to provide an efficient solution.