Linkability
The degree to which records of one data file can be correctly coupled with records of another data file.
- •Ability to create comprehensive, interconnected views of business entities and processes (e.g., 360-degree customer view, supply chain visibility).
- •Deeper insights from analyzing relationships, networks, and flows between different data entities.
- •Improved data integration efficiency for BI, advanced analytics, and AI/ML applications.
- •Enhanced master data management capabilities and establishment of a connected data ecosystem.
- •Inability to connect related information across disparate datasets, leading to fragmented understanding and missed insights.
- •Missed opportunities for value creation that could be derived from analyzing linked data relationships.
- •Costly, complex, and error-prone data integration projects due to difficulties in establishing reliable links.
- •Challenges in building accurate master data records and understanding complex interdependencies.
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Logistics: Using standardized, globally unique container IDs (ISO 6346) allows reliably linking information about a container from the Terminal Operating System, gate system, customs declarations, and shipping line manifest.
Customer Management: A master customer ID is used consistently across all systems (CRM, ERP, Marketing Automation), enabling a complete view of the customer journey.
Healthcare: A Master Patient Index (MPI) provides a unique identifier for each patient, allowing their records from various departments (radiology, lab, pharmacy) to be correctly linked.
Logistics: Inconsistent formatting or typos in vessel names (e.g., 'MSC New York' vs 'MSC_NewYork' vs 'MSCNWY') prevents accurately linking vessel schedule data with operational data for that vessel.
Customer Management: The customer ID in the sales order system is a different format than the customer ID in the support ticket system, making it hard to get a unified view of customer interactions.
Healthcare: Patient records from different clinics use different identifier schemes with no common key, making it impossible to link a patient's full medical history.