Name Collection

Name Matching (名寄せ) refers to the process of consolidating records of the same individual or entity from multiple databases or datasets by eliminating duplicates and errors. This task is a part of data cleansing and data integration and is crucial for obtaining accurate information.

Importance of Name Matching

Name matching is important for the following reasons:

1. Improving Data Accuracy:

   • Eliminates duplicates and incorrect data, enhancing the overall accuracy of the data.

2. Streamlining Customer Management:

   • Consolidates information about the same customer, enabling more consistent and efficient customer management.

3. Enhancing Data Analysis Precision:

   • Provides reliable data for analysis, resulting in more trustworthy analysis outcomes.

4. Cost Reduction:

   • Reduces costs by eliminating redundant mailings and marketing activities.

Methods of Name Matching

Several methods and technologies are employed in name matching:

1. Rule-Based Methods:

   • Matches and consolidates data based on specific rules or conditions, such as checking for matches in names, addresses, and phone numbers.

2. Machine Learning Methods:

   • Uses machine learning algorithms to perform more advanced data matching, allowing for the identification of the same person or entity even with minor differences or errors in the data.

3. Fuzzy Matching:

   • Matches data based on partial matches or similarities rather than exact matches. This method is effective in handling typos or different representations of the same data.

4. Data Cleansing Tools:

   • Utilizes specialized data cleansing tools or software to efficiently carry out the name matching process.

Example of Name Matching

Consider the following data in a company's customer database:

• 田中 太郎, 〒100-0001 東京都千代田区千代田1-1,

  tanaka@example.com

• 田中 太郎, 〒100-0001 東京都千代田区千代田1-1,

  t.tanaka@example.com

• TANAKA TARO, 〒100-0001 Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Chiyoda 1-1,

  tanaka@example.com

These records likely refer to the same individual. By performing name matching, these records can be consolidated into one, ensuring accurate customer information.

Conclusion

Name matching plays a critical role in improving data quality and enhancing the efficiency of business processes. By consolidating records and ensuring data accuracy, organizations can better manage customer information, conduct reliable data analysis, and reduce operational costs.