Illustrates a simple nonparametric alternative that can be used to test a hypothesis that two proximity matrices on the same set of variables or objects reflect a similar pattern of high and low entries. (RC)

Presents an exposition of two data reduction methods--single-link and complete-link hierarchical clustering. Emphasis is on statistical techniques for evaluating the adequacy of a completed partition hierarchy and the individual partitions within the sequence. A numerical reanalysis of data illustrates the methodology. (RC)