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Also known as: Accuracy Metric
The degree to which data values correctly represent real-world facts or ground truth.
DESCRIPTION
Data accuracy reflects correctness relative to a trusted reference. It is measured through validation rules, sampling, and comparisons against ground truth. Accuracy is distinct from precision and completeness. Improving accuracy requires stewardship, robust controls, and remediation processes. Accurate data drives reliable analytics, compliance, and customer trust.
ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS
Informatica
Accuracy measures how closely data represents real-world values.
Positions accuracy as a core data quality dimension with practical remediation.
Talend
Data accuracy is the measure of how correctly data describes the real-world object or event.
Emphasizes correctness against real-world entities and events.
RELATED TERMS
Data Quality Data Veracity Data Integrity Validation Rules Profiling Oracle Systematic Error Error Rate Governance
COMPETING TERMS
RELATIONS
- Broader: Accuracy
KNOWLEDGE AREAS
Data Quality Data Management Testing & Validation
TARGET AUDIENCE
Data Steward Data Governance Manager Data Scientist Data Analyst
EXTERNAL SOURCES
- Wikipedia - Accuracy and precision
- ISO - ISO 8000 data quality guidance
- Great Expectations - Testing expectations for data accuracy
- Microsoft Purview - Catalog and rules to improve accuracy
TOP QUESTIONS
How is Data Accuracy measured?
By comparing samples to ground truth and rules. Metrics include error rates and match rates.
Category: Management
Why does Data Accuracy matter?
Inaccurate data leads to bad decisions and compliance issues. Accuracy underpins model performance and stakeholder trust.
Category: Relevancy
What’s the difference between Data Accuracy and Precision?
Accuracy measures correctness; precision measures repeatability. You can be precise but inaccurate.
Category: Misunderstanding
What are common mistakes in Data Accuracy programs?
Ignoring ground truth definitions and context. Overfocusing on completeness while neglecting correctness.
Category: Mistakes
How to improve Data Accuracy at ingestion?
Apply validation rules, standardize units, and enforce data contracts. Use schema registries for consistency.
Category: Best practices
What risks exist if Data Accuracy is low?
Mispriced products, flawed forecasts, and regulatory penalties. Models propagate errors widely.
Category: Risk
How does Data Accuracy relate to Data Veracity?
Accuracy is a component of veracity. Veracity includes credibility and provenance beyond correctness.
Category: Topic
Which roles own Data Accuracy?
Data stewards and governance managers define rules and metrics. Engineers implement validation, scientists monitor impact.
Category: Management
Where to start improving Data Accuracy?
Identify critical data elements and define ground truth. Implement controls and measure error rates over time.
Category: Strategy