What does Single Source of Truth (SSOT) mean?
Single Source of Truth (SSOT) refers to the optimal state of a company in terms of how it handles data. Frequently, decisions in companies are made with inadequate data, which can usually be traced back to the fact that the data used cannot be found, there are different records on the same topic, and so on. This problem is now addressed by the Single Source of Truth. If a company reaches this state,…
- … all data that are identical or similar are summarized.
- …all information is stored in a single database, to which all relevant individuals have access.
- …decisions are made on the basis of the same data.
Potential challenges during an implementation
Implementing a single source of truth is often not as easy as it seems at first glance. There are several challenges that need to be overcome. First, a wide variety of data sources must be identified and aggregated. On average, these data sources consist of more than 400 information sources. Furthermore, the quality of the individual data must be ensured, since a single data source is only trustworthy if it is accurate and qualitative. In addition, data security must not be forgotten, since confidential and sensitive data is often involved.
Implementation may involve risks, however, in hindsight, the implementation is all the more rewarding. Assistance for the realization can be provided by Testify.
Benefits of a single source of truth
Implementing a single source of truth can be challenging, but it also brings many benefits.
- Breaking down data silos: By using a single source of data, so-called data silos can be avoided and different departments have access to the same, reliable and accurate data.
- Preventing faulty data: By working with only one data source, errors in the preparation of data in different teams are prevented and informed decisions can be made.
- Trustworthy and Accurate Data: The single source of truth ensures that the most up-to-date data is always available and that a simple and straightforward reconciliation of a wide variety of data can take place.
- Transparency: Authorized individuals have access to the same data and can thus create an equal picture of a situation based on identical, trustworthy data.
At one glance, these benefits mean:
- Data quality is improved
- Real-time data access
- Help with decisions
- Processes remain constant
- Acceleration of employee onboarding
- Help in identifying bottlenecks
- Unification of team goals
These benefits can be critical to a company’s success, which is why it is important to focus on the single source of truth and consider merging an implementation.
Sources:
Single Source of Truth: Definition & Umsetzung | Talend
Single Source of Truth: Was ist das und warum ist es wichtig? | Astera
Was ist Single Source of Truth (SSOT)? – Definition von WhatIs.com (computerweekly.com)
Was ist eine Single Source of Truth (SSOT)? – Dropbox