What is database cleaning? And why can it get dirty?

Data cleaning (Australia) is an important process that assists businesses save valuable time and increase efficiency. Data cleaning’s job is to detect and correct records that are inaccurate, missing data or corrupt. It also checks for duplications, modifies and standardises the data to ensure consistency.

Data cleaning is performed on batches of data. It works by cleaning an existing database where the input has been added inconsistently or incorrectly. By data cleaning you’re finding and highlighting the information which needs attention. 

There are a number of different variations of data cleaning, including ‘data enhancement’, this is the where data is made complete by adding further information to make it valuable. A Post Office Box added to the street address for example. Another variation includes removing ‘typographical errors’ which could mean an area code has not been added to the phone number or a postcode is not included in the address. 

The process of database cleaning (Australia) is an invaluable tool that should be used within any medium to large size businesses. By having a consistent, up-to-date database you are maximising your opportunities for customer communication.  Once you set up a clean, error-free database, you can then start afresh by creating ‘data validation’. This means, when data is entered into the system it is rejected if the entry is inputted incorrectly. 

Datawash can help your business with its database cleaning. We’ll save your business time and money, leaving you with a database that is accurate and effective.