The definition of enterprise data integrity is the consistency and accuracy of common data across multiple enterprise systems. The key questions being, do you trust your data of critical decision-making? And does your data line up from one system to another? In many cases, data conflicts with each other and this can cause deep mistrust. This lack of trust in data is common. In fact, according to a report done by KPMG in 2019, most executives do not have a high level of trust in their organization’s data.
This article will discuss why reliability, accuracy, and consistency of data among multiple systems is important to Utilities and how integration can help improve data integrity.
It’s no secret that enterprise data integrity is important for Utility Companies. Data is the lifeblood of the business. When you base all decisions and actions on data accuracy, how can executives trust the usefulness of their decisions?
For example, let’s say there is an outage within a utility service area. Their Outage Management System tells the crew that there is a fault in a transformer on Elm Street. The crew then looks at GIS to see where the transformer is located. Then they go to their Asset Management System to look at the specifications of the damaged transformer so they can replace it. Finally, they gather the necessary materials and head out to the site, but upon arrival realize it was a different asset that failed so they have to go back to the facility and start again. Having this incorrect data impacts the business in multiple ways: a waste of crew time, overspending on assets, and most importantly further inconvenience for customers waiting for power.
The impacts of poor enterprise data integrity compound over time and can cause some serious problems for Utilities. Most crucially, as noted above, bad customer service. Having bad data ultimately impacts the delivery of service to your customers. Poor data integrity can also take a hit on Utility budgets, not only because of overspending on assets. Incorrect data can lead to heavy fines for Utilities as well.
Stay up to date with all things Geonexus!
I know what you’re thinking. Doesn’t sharing data between multiple systems increase the likelihood of enterprise data integrity issues? The truth is yes, integration can cause data integrity issues by not following best practices. But implementing the right integration tool can be pivotal to improving data integrity.
With a productized integration tool, such as GeoWorx Sync, data integrity can be improved. First of all, it reduces manual entry because you data only enter into one system. This removes some of the possibilities for human error. Also, if the integration includes a reporting mechanism, you are easily able to use the integration tool to highlight existing data integrity issues amongst shared data. When the tool identifies inaccurate data, processes are put in place to correct the data. This integration ultimately keeps the databases in sync to ensure the correct data propagates to each system.
The bottom line? Data is the lifeblood of a Utility and when data is not reliable, the impacts are far-reaching. But with the right plan for data integration, you reduce your enterprise data integrity issues and you can be on your way to trusting your data again.
We would love to show you what our Geonexus Integration Platform can do for you and your team. Submit your information, and we’ll be in touch.
