Paper Number

ECIS2025-1048

Paper Type

SP

Abstract

The study of data quality (DQ) in information systems (IS) research has gained prominence, particularly in the realm of data repurposing. This process, also referred to as secondary data use, involves using already existing data for a purpose other than initially planned, often by new users who may have limited understanding of data’s contextual nuances. Consequently, quality assessment of repurposed data remains a challenging task, especially regarding contextual DQ. Motivated by this, we examine contextual DQ in secondary data use and investigate how it is achieved in practice. Through interviews with data scientists and analysts, this study uncovers work of those who are involved in data repurposing. By looking at the data through practice lens, we propose strategies for overcoming identified challenges, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers, and emphasise the importance of data’s contextual understanding and data work for ensuring DQ.

Author Connect URL

https://authorconnect.aisnet.org/conferences/ECIS2025/papers/ECIS2025-1048

Author Connect Link

Share

COinS
 
Jun 18th, 12:00 AM

Context Matters? Contextual Data Quality for Data Repurposing

The study of data quality (DQ) in information systems (IS) research has gained prominence, particularly in the realm of data repurposing. This process, also referred to as secondary data use, involves using already existing data for a purpose other than initially planned, often by new users who may have limited understanding of data’s contextual nuances. Consequently, quality assessment of repurposed data remains a challenging task, especially regarding contextual DQ. Motivated by this, we examine contextual DQ in secondary data use and investigate how it is achieved in practice. Through interviews with data scientists and analysts, this study uncovers work of those who are involved in data repurposing. By looking at the data through practice lens, we propose strategies for overcoming identified challenges, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers, and emphasise the importance of data’s contextual understanding and data work for ensuring DQ.

When commenting on articles, please be friendly, welcoming, respectful and abide by the AIS eLibrary Discussion Thread Code of Conduct posted here.