The Power of Clean Data

In the energy and infrastructure sectors, data is the backbone of decision-making, asset management, and regulatory compliance. However, the quality of data is often overlooked until problems arise. Dirty data—meaning outdated, incomplete, duplicate or inaccurate information—can have serious consequences for asset owners, project managers, and stakeholders.

The Hidden Costs of Dirty Data

Dirty data can cause inefficiencies, increase operational costs, and even pose safety risks.

Potential impacts:

• Inefficient Operations: Poor data quality leads to misallocation of resources, causing wasted time and money
• Loss of Stakeholder Trust: Inconsistent records can create confusion among landowners, contractors, and regulatory bodies, reducing confidence in infrastructure projects
• Regulatory Non-Compliance: Inaccurate data can lead to non-compliance with safety and environmental regulations, resulting in fines or project delays
• Safety Hazards: Incorrect data on underground and above-ground assets can increase the risk of damage, endangering workers and the public.

The Benefits of Clean Data

Investing in data accuracy ensures operational efficiency and regulatory compliance while reducing risks.

The upside is:

• Improved Efficiency: Accurate data reduces errors, streamlines workflows, and increases productivity
• Better Stakeholder Engagement: Transparent and accurate records improve relationships with landowners, regulators, and the public
• Enhanced Decision-Making: Reliable data enables asset owners to make informed decisions about project management, reporting, maintenance, upgrades, and expansions
• Stronger Risk Management: Up-to-date information ensures safer working conditions and helps prevent costly damage to infrastructure.

How to Maintain Clean Data

Keeping data accurate requires proactive management.

Consider:

• Standardised Data Entry: Implement uniform guidelines to prevent inconsistencies
• Ongoing Training: Educate employees on the importance of accurate data and proper management practices
• Regular Data Audits: Conduct routine checks to identify and correct errors.

The Future of Data in Energy and Infrastructure

As we all embrace digital transformation, the importance of clean data will only grow. AI-driven analytics, automation, and cloud-based platforms are making data management more efficient—but these technologies still rely on high-quality data to function effectively.

By prioritising clean data, asset owners can improve compliance, increase efficiency, and ensure the safety of their projects.

Dirty data is like polluted water—if you don’t clean it, everything downstream gets contaminated.

Written by Jacqueline Button