Abstract: The invention relates to a selection process for input parameters intended for application to an intelligent processing system such as a neural network, or in the implementation of an intensive data handling operation, such as data mining. The selection process involves producing an indication of the state of organisation of the parameters and selecting them for use in the processing system or data handling operation if their state of organisation is indicated to be sufficient. If the state of organisation of the parameters is not deemed sufficient, their various influences are automatically determined and at least one parameter tending to disturb the state of organisation is rejected.