Title: Data Quality
Author: Kriko
Published: May 25, 2023
Last modified: Jul 7, 2026

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# Data Quality

**[Data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) quality** refers to the
extent to which [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) is suitable
for a defined purpose. A dataset must generally be accurate, complete, current, 
consistent and usable to be considered high quality. For example, displaying correct
values on a KPI dashboard designed to monitor company objectives supports reliable
decision-making. However, figures should not only appear correct, as they must also
come from dependable sources and be produced through appropriate calculation methods.

[Data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) profiling, monitoring and
analysis play important roles in maintaining [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight)
quality. These activities can identify missing fields, duplicate records, invalid
values and inconsistencies between systems. [Data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight)
cleansing, standardisation, matching, enrichment and validation can then be used
to address the problems discovered. [Data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight)
quality should therefore be treated as an ongoing management process covering the
entire [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) lifecycle rather 
than as a one-time project.

Responsibility for [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) quality
should not belong exclusively to technical teams or a single business department.
Business units define how information will be used and which quality standards are
required, while [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight) owners and
governance teams may establish relevant rules. Information technology and [data](https://kriko.io/services/data-analysis-insight)
teams implement, monitor and report on these requirements within organisational 
systems. This shared approach helps align data quality activities with business 
objectives.

Data quality can be assessed through dimensions such as **accuracy, completeness,
consistency, timeliness, validity, uniqueness and relevance**. Accuracy indicates
whether information reflects reality, while completeness determines whether all 
required values are available. Timeliness concerns whether data is sufficiently 
current and available when required, and validity measures compliance with defined
formats and business rules. Relevance indicates whether the information is suitable
for the analytical purpose and user requirement.

Uniqueness means that records representing the same person, transaction or object
are not unnecessarily duplicated. Consistency requires the same information to have
compatible values across different systems and departments. For example, different
customer addresses in CRM and billing systems may indicate a consistency problem.
Clear definitions and understandable field names also make it easier for users to
interpret information correctly.

Poor-quality data can lead to inaccurate reports, unsuitable decisions and unnecessary
operational costs. Incorrect sales figures, misclassified website traffic or duplicate
customer records may directly affect analytical results. Employees may also waste
time manually checking information when they do not trust organisational reports.
High-quality data can improve productivity, accelerate decision-making and strengthen
confidence in information across the organisation.

In summary, data quality covers not only technical accuracy but also reliability
and suitability for the intended purpose. Clear rules, responsibilities, measurement
criteria and regular control mechanisms are required to maintain quality. Organisations
should identify the source of data problems and improve the processes that generate
the information instead of correcting only the final output. Effective **data quality
management** supports more reliable decisions across marketing, operations, finance
and corporate strategy.

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