Fuzzy models in regional statistics

Many regional data are not provided as precise numbers, but they are frequently non-precise (fuzzy). In order to provide realistic statistical information, the imprecision must be described quantitatively. This is possible using special fuzzy subsets of the set of real numbers ℝ, called fuzzy numbers, together with their characterising functions. In this study, the uncertainty of measured data is highlighted through an example of environmental data from a regional study. The generalised statistical methods, through the characterising function and the δ-cut, that are suitable for the situations of fuzzy uni- and multivariate data are described. In addition, useful generalised descriptive statistics and predictive models frequently applicable for analysis of fuzzy data in regional studies as well as the concept of fuzzy data in databases are presented.