The whole truth and nothing but the truth? The role of data quality today

Abstract

Purpose

Historically, firms have done very well in collecting a large volume of data. Unfortunately, the data are often collected and stored without proper consideration being given to how they will be used later. This paper aims to consider how firms can more effectively gather usable data.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used was a conceptual approach using real‐time examples.

Findings

The findings indicate that organizations do not lack for data – they lack high quality, analyzable data.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not provide an empirical sample. Future research should focus more specifically on the type of data firms collect and the reasons for collecting those data.

Practical implications

The paper shows the difference between simply collecting data and collecting data, which can be used at a later date.

Originality/value

The paper provides a blueprint for firms to enable more effective data collection and use.

Citation

Scarisbrick‐Hauser, A. and Rouse, C. (2007), "The whole truth and nothing but the truth? The role of data quality today", Direct Marketing: An International Journal, Vol. 1 No. 3, pp. 161-171. https://doi.org/10.1108/17505930710779333