Introduction

This chapter examines the concept of a measurement system as a means to select a suitable data accuracy measurement based on an organization's particular circumstances. Data tracking provides a means of sampling data records as they first enter an information chain, tracking changes each step along the way, and applying business rules to identify inaccuracies. The Data Supplier Management Cycle is a structural approach for managing external data suppliers. Data supplier and information chain management are powerful, repeatable techniques. An information chain is a long, cross-organizational flow of data from suppliers through a given organization and its business processes to customers, those who use the data. Measurement systems are particularly helpful in deciding how to measure data accuracy. All measurements of data accuracy must, of necessity, make reference to human knowledge, other data, or the real world.