A maximum likelihood methodology for clusterwise linear regression

Abstract

This paper presents a conditional mixture, maximum likelihood methodology for performing clusterwise linear regression. This new methodology simultaneously estimates separate regression functions and membership in K clusters or groups. A review of related procedures is discussed with an associated critique. The conditional mixture, maximum likelihood methodology is introduced together with the E-M algorithm utilized for parameter estimation. A Monte Carlo analysis is performed via a fractional factorial design to examine the performance of the procedure. Next, a marketing application is presented concerning the evaluations of trade show performance by senior marketing executives. Finally, other potential applications and directions for future research are identified.