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Standard defining a general data quality model with intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics for measurement and evaluation.
DESCRIPTION
ISO/IEC 25012 specifies a data quality model comprising intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics to evaluate data fitness-for-purpose. It belongs to the SQuaRE series, complementing software quality models like ISO 25010. The model covers dimensions such as accuracy, completeness, consistency, credibility, and timeliness. Organizations use it to structure data quality metrics, controls, and stewardship processes. It provides a common language for governance, quality monitoring, and remediation.
ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS
ISO/IEC
Defines a general data quality model for all types of data.
Summarizes universal applicability of the model across data contexts.
BSI
ISO/IEC 25012 specifies a data quality model comprising characteristics for measuring the quality of data.
Highlights measurable characteristics for structured quality assessment.
NEN
This standard provides a structured model of data quality characteristics, both intrinsic and extrinsic, applicable to diverse data sets.
Emphasizes intrinsic and extrinsic distinction within the model.
RELATED TERMS
Data Quality ISO 25010 Data Profiling Governance Quality Dimensions Metadata Management Data Stewardship
COMPETING TERMS
ISO 8000 DAMA DMBOK Data Quality Dimensions
KNOWLEDGE AREAS
Data Quality Data Management Metadata Management Data Governance
TARGET AUDIENCE
Data Steward Data Governance Manager Chief Data Officer Data Management Consultant Data Architect Data Analyst Information Analyst
EXTERNAL SOURCES
- Wikipedia - ISO/IEC 25012
- ISO/IEC - Official ISO/IEC 25012 page
- BSI - BSI overview of ISO/IEC 25012
- UK Government - Government guidance referencing data quality dimensions
TOP QUESTIONS
What does ISO/IEC 25012 define?
It defines a general data quality model with characteristics to measure and evaluate data fitness-for-purpose across contexts.
Category: Overview
How do intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics differ in ISO/IEC 25012?
Intrinsic qualities are inherent to data (e.g., accuracy), while extrinsic relate to usage context (e.g., timeliness, accessibility).
Category: Definition
Why adopt ISO/IEC 25012 in data governance?
It provides a shared language and structure for metrics, controls, and stewardship, improving accountability and quality outcomes.
Category: Relevancy
How does ISO/IEC 25012 relate to ISO 25010?
25012 focuses on data quality, while 25010 covers software product quality—both part of SQuaRE, complementing governance and assurance.
Category: Relationship
What mistakes occur when using ISO/IEC 25012?
Overloading metrics without clear business needs and ignoring extrinsic context can yield misleading quality scores.
Category: Mistakes
How do organizations measure ISO/IEC 25012 dimensions?
Through data profiling, rule checks, monitoring, and scorecards aligned to the model’s characteristics.
Category: Implementation
What risks arise from poor data quality?
Decisions degrade, compliance breaches occur, and operational inefficiencies increase, raising costs and reputational risk.
Category: Risk
Is ISO/IEC 25012 applicable to unstructured data?
Yes. The model is general and can be adapted to diverse data types, including unstructured content.
Category: Applicability
Who owns ISO/IEC 25012 application in enterprises?
Data stewards and governance managers, supported by architects and analysts, typically drive implementation and monitoring.
Category: Ownership