The importance of communicating data quality

Let your users know about the strengths and limitations of your data

It is vital that organisations use data effectively. To do this, people using the data must understand how it can and cannot be used. Communicating the quality of data to your users is an essential step in helping them to decide whether it is fit for their intended purpose. This will allow them to come to more accurate conclusions and therefore make better business decisions. Communicating data quality should be an ongoing commitment – not just something that is done at the end of your data’s journey.

In this article we share why communicating data quality is important and what you need to communicate to your users.

Why you need to communicate data quality to your users

Data may be used by several different users, and each for different purposes. It is therefore necessary to take a ‘case by case’ approach to assess when it is appropriate to use it and for what purpose. Communicating your data quality allows you to demonstrate the strengths and limitations of your data so that each user can decide if it meets their needs.

Communicating the quality of data to users gives them a fuller picture of your data and its journey. It also mitigates against people using the data for the wrong purposes. This will minimise the risk of any associated costs this may have, such as financial or reputational damage. Providing information on data quality up front will give users confidence in the data and their use of it. Regularly communicating your data quality will also promote and maintain the confidence in, and integrity of, your organisation.