Managing Data and Information Quality in Outbound Transportation Systems

Abstract

Using an interpretive case study approach, this paper describes the data quality problems in two companies: (1) a global wholesale technology distributor, referred to as (GWTD), and (2) a global exporter of hardwoods (GEH). These two interpretive cases examine the outbound transportation system of these two companies. Specifically, the issues examined are GWTD’s freight bill audit and payment process and GEH’s transportation coordination system. A data and information quality (DIQ) assessment of the freight bill audit and payment process, using a framework referred to as PGOT, demonstrates how the framework can identify improvement opportunities within any information intensive environment. Data quality problems within key processes were identified during the assessment, and their implications are described. This paper provides recommendations for DIQ best practices, and illustrates these best practices within this real world context of outbound transportation.