Why, when, and where to perform data preparation

In the dynamic world of data management and analysis, the preparation of data holds a pivotal role. This section aims to shed light on the key components and concepts of data preparation. It also underscores its significance in the broader framework of data integration.

Data preparation is often likened to setting the stage before a grand performance. It’s the process of cleaning, structuring, and enriching raw data to improve its quality and usefulness. Similar to a well-prepared stage enhancing an artist’s performance, well-prepared data can significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of data analysis, thereby leading to more insightful and actionable business intelligence.

First and foremost, let’s delve into the essence of data preparation. At its core, it’s about making raw data more suitable for analytics or other business processes. This involves various sub-processes, including data cleansing...