
6 4 CHAPTER 3 Sources of Inaccurate Data
3.6 Closing Remarks
Inaccurate data gets into databases at a number of points and for a variety of
reasons. Any program to improve data accuracy must address the issues
across the entire spectrum of opportunities for error.
Data can be entered mistakenly, can be deliberately entered inaccurately,
can be the result of system errors, can decay in accuracy, can be turned into
inaccurate data through moving and restructuring, and can be turned into
wrong information when inappropriately reported or used. Understanding all
of these areas will make data