Garbage in, gospel out
We've all heard the phrase "Garbage in, garbage out." If the data entered into the system is bad, any reports coming out of it will be bad. Simple.
But what about "Garbage in, gospel out"? (I first heard this from my father.) Translated, this is reflected in the attitude of "If the system says it is so, it must be."
We've probably all encountered this with a consumer goods company when the customer service rep says "Sir, my records show your service is working fine," as I sit on my end with no internet service.
The antidote to Garbage in, Gospel out is "Trust, but verify." It's ok to assume your data reports are good, as long as you've verified they are good! One way to verify your data is through the use of data integrity reports.
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
The database owner should be “passionate”
The database owner should be “passionate” I’m frequently asked by my clients: “Who should we […]
Discipline is required
Discipline is required Last week I discussed the importance of taking action. To manage data […]
Action is required
Action is required Over my many years of consulting, one thing I’ve noticed about many associations […]
Some data analytics tips from the DAN “Science Fair”
Some data analytics tips from the DAN “Science Fair” Last week I had the opportunity […]
Are all your processes frictionless?
Are all your processes frictionless? I’m not a huge fan of buzzwords, but I love […]
Trends don’t need perfect data
Trends don’t need perfect data When it comes to analyzing data trends (changes in data […]
Start with “Why” before you move to “How”
Start with “Why” before you move to “How” Something I’ve noticed over my years in […]
The power of users groups!
The power of users groups! Last week I had the honor and pleasure of speaking […]
Associations are complex businesses!
Associations are complex businesses! One of the reasons managing data at an association can be so […]
Snapshots are required
Snapshots are required Recently a couple of different clients have asked me why it’s necessary […]
