Lähdedataa

Lähdedataa, or source data, refers to the raw information collected directly from original sources before substantial processing. In Estonian contexts, it denotes the dataset that underpins analyses, statistics, and reporting, and it is typically distinguished from derived or aggregated data. Source data is the primary input used to generate insights and decisions.

Sources include surveys, sensor readings, transaction logs, administrative records, experimental measurements, and field observations. Lähdedataa can be structured (numbers, categories), semi-structured, or unstructured, and it often carries timestamps and contextual metadata about how and when it was collected. The quality and completeness of source data influence the reliability of downstream results.

Role and importance: Lähdedataa is essential for transparency and reproducibility. Analysts trace results back to the original inputs, validate assumptions, and audit data pipelines. It supports data quality assessment and governance, enabling detection of bias, errors, and inconsistencies that may be introduced during processing or aggregation.

Quality and challenges: Raw data may be incomplete, erroneous, biased, or incompatible across sources. Handling requires data cleaning, standardization, and documentation of provenance. Metadata about the source, collection method, instrument, and version is critical for correct interpretation and long-term usability.

Privacy and ethics: When source data includes personal or sensitive information, safeguards are required, including anonymization, access controls, consent management, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Relation to data management: Lähdedataa is complemented by data provenance records and metadata catalogs. Clear lineage information helps reproduce analyses, assess reliability, and support governance across data systems. Examples include raw survey responses, environmental sensor logs, and raw financial transaction records.